Fred Wesley is a legendary trombone master whose powerful, soulful playing helped define the sound of funk and modern jazz. Best known for his work as the musical director for James Brown and as a key collaborator with George Clinton in Parliament-Funkadelic, Wesley blends virtuosic technique with deep groove and sharp musical wit. His improvisational skill, tight arrangements, and commanding tone have made him one of the most influential trombonists of his generation, bridging jazz sophistication with the raw energy of funk. Tonight he joins Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra as a featured guest.

Delfeayo Marsalis is an acclaimed trombonist, producer and educator. Known for his “technical excellence, inventive mind and frequent touches of humor …” (LA Times) and heralded and hailed as one of “the best, most imaginative and musical of the trombonists of his generation.” (SF Examiner). Marsalis has performed with music legends such as Ray Charles, Fats Domino, Art Blakey, and Elvin Jones. He has released 10 recordings as leader to critical acclaim and has steadily gained a reputation for being “a merchant of joy!”

When Delfeayo and the UJO hit the stage, audiences are guaranteed to have a jazz party, all night long! UJO is stretching the boundaries of what is expected from big bands, playing with an extraordinary sense of joy and fun that could only come from New Orleans.