This annual tradition in honor of Women’s History Month features some of the best-known and unsung female performers in jazz today. The 2017 festival will celebrate Ella Fitzgerald’s centennial birthday and continued influence on the evolution of jazz. “Ella, Ella: A Centennial Celebration of Mama Jazz!” is slated for four consecutive Mondays–March 6, 13, 20, and 27. Each night will explore the multi-dimensional music, life, and legacy of this jazz legend.
The French duo, Les Nubians, sisters Hélène and Célia Faussart from Bordeaux, France are known for melding African rhythms with jazz and R&B. This final evening of the festival will provide a glimpse of Fitzgerald’s influence as an internationally acclaimed jazz artist. In 1990, Fitzgerald received the French medal of Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters (Commandeur des Arts et des Lettres) for her significant contributions to jazz. Infusing traditional Fitzgerald with cultural notes from across the African diaspora, the Grammy-nominated singers offer a sophisticated ode to why the world loves Ella Fitzgerald.
There is an admission charge for this event: $30: General Admission, $25: Schomburg Society Members. Tickets can be purchased here.
