NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The 11th Annual Shorty Fest Presented by Acura returns with gusto to Tipitina’s Uptown on Monday, April 29! Headlined by Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, the event held on “Jazz Fest Monday” brings supporters, friends, and music lovers together to help keep music education alive in New Orleans. One of the night’s magical moments is sure to be a show-stopping performance by very special guests, Grammy nominated Sun Ra Arkestra bringing their interstellar virtuosity and wonder. This year’s musical lineup will also include performances by Galactic feat. Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, and students from the Trombone Shorty Academy.
In addition to the indoor celebration, Shorty Fest Presented by Acura will again host a free outdoor “Cultural Block Party.” Guests can settle onto the neutral ground with a chair and enjoy music by newly Grammy-nominated New Breed Brass Band, Big Chief Juan Pardo and the Golden Commanches, The St. Augustine Marching 100 [High School Marching Band], and Shorty Academy students. The outdoor event will feature a family friendly kids’ area, food trucks, and a silent auction plus VIP access tent on the neutral ground.
Tickets to the event will go on sale this Friday, Feb. 23, at 10 a.m. CST at www.tipitinas.com. Proceeds benefit the Trombone Shorty Foundation and its commitment to empowering and educating future generations of musicians through instruction, mentorship and performance. “Shorty Fest Presented by Acura” is brought to fans by The Trombone Shorty Foundation in partnership with the Tip-it Foundation and Gia Maione Prima Foundation.
“We are ready to travel the spaceways this year at Shorty Fest!” says Trombone Shorty Foundation Executive Director Bill Taylor. “What an honor to have the Sun Ra Arkestra join us to advance music education in New Orleans. Shorty Fest is all about culture and community, as we celebrate the bridges the music builds in our lives. It’s truly the great connector, and thanks to Acura for their continued support in helping us bring “precision crafted performance” to the next generation of New Orleans musicians.”
Tipitina’s will hold its traditional Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony during the 2024 Shorty Fest outdoor block party – this year posthumously honoring New Orleans’ legendary percussionist Russell Batiste. The “Walk of Fame” spot is memorialized in the sidewalk outside the venue, and is a distinction given to musicians who have earned their place in New Orleans’ revered music history. Tipitina’s Walk of Fame recipients are recognized as cultural icons in the New Orleans community and have provided countless moments of inspiration to rising young musicians and performers. Past Walk of Fame honorees have included Fats Domino, Dr. John, Trombone Shorty, and The Neville Brothers.
“Our favorite time of the year is finally here!” said Founder Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. “I’ve been blown away by the time and work our Academy students have committed to since September, and I’m excited for them to put their talents on full display. It will be a special night as always.”
“We are excited to renew our partnership with the Trombone Shorty Foundation in supporting the 2024 Shorty Fest” states Anthony J. Sylvester, Trustee to the Gia Maione Prima Foundation. “The partnership will provide enormous tools and opportunities to the next generation of NOLA Jazz artists through its many educational programs.”
For additional information on Shorty Fest 2024 Presented by Acura and the Trombone Shorty Foundation, please visit www.tipitinas.com and www.tromboneshortyfoundation.org. A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Acura for their continued support of our event. We need your support to help keep music education alive in New Orleans! To donate, visit our website at www.tromboneshortyfoundation.org.
WHAT: 11th Annual Shorty Fest 2024 Presented by Acura and brought to fans by Trombone Shorty
Foundation, Tip-it Foundation and the Gia Maione Prima Foundation
WHEN: Monday, April 29
Outdoor events 5 p.m., Doors at 7 p.m., Music starts 8pm indoors
WHERE: Tipitina’s, 501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans LA
TICKETS: Tickets on sale Friday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. CST at www.tipitinas.com
GA Tickets: $125
VIP Tickets: $300 (Includes second floor indoor access at Tipitina’s with open bar starting at 5 p.m., outdoor tent access with open bar and catered food by Jacques-Imo’s starting at 5 p.m., and VIP viewing access on second floor during event. Standing room only).