The Armstrong Ballroom set the stage for a full orchestral concert by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra with special guest the Kermit Ruffins Band, in a special tribute to Louis Armstrong. Kermit Ruffins performed on trumpet and vocals with Kevin Morris on bass, Shannon Powell on drums and Yoshitaka Tsuji on piano.
The festive evening included a seated three-course dinner with wine and cocktails as well as dancing. Preservation Hall All-Star Quintet provided music throughout dessert and dancing.
A select number of high-end auction items were available, including Viking River Cruises and a George Rodrigue “Take Five” print signed by Randy Newman.
Paulette and Frank Stewart served as event chairs. Music Director Carlos Miguel Prieto was the honoree, and Mark Romig served as auctioneer.
The goal of the “LPO Opus Ball” was to support the educational programming of the LPO, designed in conjunction with Band Together. The ambition of the Band Together program is to deepen New Orleans high school students’ understanding of their cultural heritage by fusing traditional orchestral elements with New Orleans musical history. The Band Together program culminates with a performance by the LPO of music that has been made relevant to the attending New Orleans high school students through their own arts-integrated explorations of local history and culture. The Band Together concert for high school students focused on the legacy of Louis Armstrong with celebrated trumpeter Kermit Ruffins.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “LPO Opus Ball: A Tribute to Louis Armstrong,” benefiting Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
When: Saturday, April 18
Where: Sheraton Hotel
