For the fourth year in succession, the annual Improvisations Gala will be presented hy The Herb Alpert Foundation. 

The entire 400 block of Esplanade will be transformed into “Storyville: Sounds of the Rising Sun” on Saturday, December 6, from 7-11 p.m. with the sights and sounds of the historic red-light district that played a pivotal role in the birthplace of jazz and shaped a new, improvisational style of music.  

Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kermit Ruffins, James Andrews & the Crescent City All-Stars, Tuba Skinny, Detroit Brooks & the NOLA Jazz Museum Band with the New Orleans Ladies, featuring Rechell Cook, Dane Ruffins, Naydja CoJoe & Sharon Martin, Treme Lafitte Brass Band, LPO Ensemble with Dominican Strings of Gocessa, the NOCCA Jazz Ensemble, and scores of other incredible talents will be performing, along with NOLA Chorus Girls, Kit Harris & N’Awlins D’Awlins Baby Dolls, Big Queen Mary K. Stevenson & The Original Wild Tchoupitoulas, Ritmeaux Krewe and more.   

The Improvisations Gala will also include insightful exhibitions, delicious cuisine by Messina’s Catering & Events, craft cocktails, fine wines, Abita beer and more from 7-11 p.m. amidst dazzling lighting displays and art scapes.

Early Bird tickets will provide access to all performances, exhibits, food and beverages.  Patron tickets will also be available for $300 and include an exclusive VIP Experience with elevated food and beverage offerings, lounge seating, dedicated bars and food stations, and additional perks. By popular demand, Treasure Chest Key sales for lovely pavé pendant from Adler’s will again be offered as well as an On-Line Auction that activates November 1.  

All funds raised by the Improvisations Gala directly support the Jazz Museum’s educational programs and initiatives.  Ticket sales and sponsorship ensures the continuation of valuable programs that bring the magic of jazz to life for the community and beyond.

To celebrate this milestone commitment, an Early Bird Special is being offered on general admission tickets now through Sept.  30 for $125 – a $25 savings.  Secure your tickets here.