An Evening of Ellington - Memphis Celebrates International Jazz Month

Memphis Celebrates International Jazz Month

Friday, April 17, 2026 | Crosstown Theater

Doors: 7:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM | FREE — Open to All

Music Royalty is coming to Memphis.  Duke Ellington’s "Heirs to the Jazz Throne" — The Savoy Ellingtons, April Ellington and Edward Ellington Jr. — are bringing their father’s legendary legacy home to the city he loved. Joined by Living Jazz Legend H.B. Barnum (Musical Conductor for Aretha Franklin for 42 years) and a special tribute performance by the world-renowned native Memphian -Wendy Moten, this is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event you won’t want to miss.

Featuring a stunning 100-piece student orchestra anchored by Memphis Central High School Jazz Band — the #1 Jazz Band in the World and 2025 Essentially Ellington Award Winners at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis — joined by students from the Top 5 of Memphis’ finest high school music programs onstage together representing the extraordinary next generation of Memphis musicians.

This is not just a concert. This is Memphis claiming its place in American music history.

FREE admission. RSVP required. Attire is Elegant Chic, Formal Attire is optional.

staxmusicacademy.org | soulsvillefoundation.org | (901)942-7627

Presented by Stax Music Academy & Soulsville Foundation, in partnership with Voice Concepts Incorporated, with support of Memphis Tourism Convention & Visitors Bureau.