INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The Space Coast Symphony Jazz Orchestra will present two iconic Christmas albums, Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker and A Stan Kenton Merry Christmas at 2 p.m. at Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center, 1707 16th Street, 32960, on Saturday, Dec. 12.
Under the direction of Dr. Patrick Hennessey, the professional Jazz Orchestra will start with jazz legend Stan Kenton’s holiday classics, including “O Holy Night,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “The Twelve Days of Christmas” and more.
The second half of the concert will feature Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite, a transformed jazz version of Tchaikovsky’s holiday masterpiece. Ellington and writing partner Bill Strayhorn created the hybrid album in the 1960s.
Hailed as the two greatest Christmas big band arrangements of all time, Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker and A Stan Kenton Merry Christmas provide jazz lovers with a swinging holiday alternative.
Tickets are available for $20 in advance through the orchestra website at www.SpaceCoastSymphony.org or at several convenient ticket outlets, including Marine Bank & Trust (beachside and mainland branches) and Madison Avenue Consignments. The concert is free for those aged 18 and under or with a student ID. Tickets at the door are $25. Call toll free to (855) 252-7276 for more information.
Professor, trombone player and veteran jazz band leader, Dr. Patrick Hennessey is looking forward to adding some sizzle to the season.
“This is a fantastic collection of Christmas classics,” said Hennessey. “Both the Ellington and Kenton albums are high powered jazz at its best. I can’t decide if this concert will be more fun to play or listen to.”
For more information about the Space Coast Symphony 2015-16 season or the Symphony for Everyone discount ticket program, please visit www.SpaceCoastSymphony.org or call toll-free (855) 252-7276.