On Wednesday, April 11, the 19th annual Bill Russell Lecture will be presented by the Historic New Orleans Collection. “The Life and Music of New Orleans Legend George Lewis” will focus on the clarinetist’s influential work both in and out of traditional jazz. The lecture is presented by Dr. Michael White, who will be joined by his Original Liberty Jazz Band in performing selections of Lewis’ extensive repertoire.

White is himself a celebrated clarinetist, composer and professor. Currently the Keller Endowed Chair in the Humanities at Xavier University, he is a preeminent scholar on George Lewis. Lewis’ career began in the 1920s, during which time he played alongside contemporaries like Buddy Petit, Henry “Red” Allen, the Eureka Brass Band, the Olympia Orchestra and his own ensemble. His series of recordings with trumpeter Bunk Johnson in 1942 earned him worldwide recognition, and at home in New Orleans he became a fixture of the trad-jazz revival, playing with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band from 1961 until his death.

Sponsored by the Derbes Family Foundation, the lecture takes place at THNOC‘s Williams Research Center (410 Chartres St.) from 6-7:30 p.m. Admission is $25 per person and advance reservations are highly encouraged. Interested parties may make a reservation by calling (504) 523-4662.