Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers Presents Duke Ellington's Sacred Concerts

1213 Pacific Avenue,Atlantic City NJ 08401

17 December, 2022

Description

For one night only and for the first time in history, the Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers presents Duke Ellington's "Sacred Concerts," which will be performed in Atlantic City on December 17 at Asbury United Methodist Church AC. Duke Ellington's "Sacred Concerts" intermingles classical, jazz, gospel, blues, visual arts, and dance and will be free for all ages. Patrons are encouraged to give a donation during the offering. Acclaimed jazz vocalist Laranah Phipps Ray & Her Jazz Arksemble features a full band led by musical director/legendary jazz organist Radam Schwartz, who wrote new arrangements of Ellington's original charts. He combines notable local musicians; Takashi Otsuka (bass), Scott Peebles (trumpet), and Errold Lanier (drums), with some of the world's most accomplished touring jazz musicians, including Guitarist DM Hotep & Saxophonist James Stewart (Sun Ra Arkestra), Saxophonist Gene Ghee (Art Blakey & Stevie Wonder), and Saxophonist Anthony Ware (Dee Dee Bridgewater). The vocal ensemble showcases leading voices from the Northeast Region, Joy Weatherford-Jackson, Shindana Montaque, Renal Boyd, and MonRay Francois. The vocal ensemble is led by choirmistress Erica Reeves. "Sacred Concerts" is a work that transcends genre. Duke Ellington has always said that Sacred Concerts is his most important and most meaningful work. The message is uplifting. Love is the consistent motif. It's a family-centered evening of inspiration, hope, and freedom.