Photo by Caitlyn Ridenour

Shorty Fest Gears Up for Return

The 10th Annual Shorty Fest, presented by Acura, has been announced. The Trombone Shorty Foundation will organize the music festival in partnership with the Tip-it Foundation and Gia Maione Prima Foundation. The event is set to take place on May 1st at Tipitina’s.

The festival is headlined by Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and the musical lineup also features performances by Galactic feat. Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, Tank and the Bangas, and more

Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Trombone Shorty Foundation, which is committed to helping empower and educate future generations of musicians through instruction, mentorship, and performance. The Shorty Fest is the foundation’s largest fundraising event, and Acura has been the festival’s official Automotive Partner and presenting partner since 2016.

Acura’s support of the Trombone Shorty Foundation has exceeded $100,000 in 2023, thanks to an additional grant contribution from American Honda that was announced recently. The new donation will support the Trombone Shorty Academy by providing free transportation to all students enrolled in the program.

In addition to the indoor celebration, Shorty Fest will include a free outdoor “Cultural Block Party” featuring performances by local brass bands, high school marching bands, and Mardi Gras Indians.

Tipitina’s will also hold its traditional Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony during the 2023 Shorty Fest outdoor block party, honoring Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. The Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony is a distinction given to musicians who have earned their place in New Orleans’ revered music history. Past Walk of Fame honorees have included Fats Domino, Dr. John, and The Neville Brothers.

The Trombone Shorty Foundation’s partnership with the Tip-it Foundation and Gia Maione Prima Foundation in supporting the 2023 Shorty Fest, has been valuable in providing music education and outreach initiatives and confirms their shared passion for providing opportunities for future generations of New Orleans musicians.