THE JAZZ INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO PRESENTS
THE GALA 2025
FEATURING
branford marsalis
THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2025
CHICAGO HILTON, GRAND BALLROOM
720 S MICHIGAN AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60605
THE JAZZ INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO PRESENTS
AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING: THE GALA 2025 WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS
Join us for a night of elegance and world-class music as the Jazz Institute of Chicago celebrates its 56th year!
Experience the magic of Branford Marsalis, celebrate the contributions of honorees Orbert Davis and Mark Ingram, and witness the talent of our Jazz Links students.
Gala Schedule:
5:00 PM: VIP Reception
6:00 PM: Cocktail Reception
7:00 PM: Dinner, Remarks, and Concert
SECURE YOUR TICKETS!
Become part of our jazz community! Members enjoy discounted tickets and more.
Saxophonist Branford Marsalis is one of the most influential and revered figures in contemporary music.
The NEA Jazz Master, Grammy Award winner and Tony Award nominee is equally at home performing concertos with symphony orchestras and sitting in with members of the Grateful Dead, but the core of his musical universe remains the Branford Marsalis Quartet. After more than three decades of existence with minimal personnel changes, this celebrated ensemble is revered for its uncompromising interpretation of a kaleidoscopic range of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics.
Celebrating the Dynamic Duo: Orbert Davis & Mark Ingram
The Jazz Institute of Chicago is delighted to present our 2025 honors to two extraordinary collaborators who have enriched Chicago's cultural landscape through their groundbreaking work:
-
Orbert Davis
Orbert Davis is more than just a brilliant trumpeter and composer; he is an innovator. His co-creation of the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic has redefined the boundaries of jazz, blending it seamlessly with classical and other genres. His Emmy Award-winning work and his dedication to music education have inspired countless musicians and audiences.
-
Mark Ingram
Mark Ingram's career is a testament to the power of collaboration. As co-founder and producing director of the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, he has worked alongside Orbert Davis to bring their shared vision to life. His vast experience in the music industry, from producing shows for iconic artists to facilitating music for major films, has made him an invaluable force in Chicago's music community.
GALA Chairperson
LYNN COLBERT-JONES, CHAIRPERSON
Songwriter, Business Strategist, Entertainment Consultant, Producer
We are elated to have the Branford Marsalis Quartet performing at this year’s Gala in the beautiful Grand Ballroom of the Chicago Hilton, in addition to our Jazz Links student performances.
Nearly 500 guests will enjoy an evening kicked-off with cocktails, fantastic food, and one-of-a-kind performances.
We hope that you’ll join us as a Gala sponsor. Your brand will be in good company with one of the nation’s oldest Jazz Institutions and one of the world’s hottest entertainers.
Samara Joy, performing at the 2024 Gala
Why we matter
We provide access to jazz music. Ninety percent of our programs are free of charge. By eliminating social and economic barriers that often prevent engagement with music, we serve audiences throughout the city, with an emphasis on those marginalized who have limited access to art and creative opportunities.
In 2024, we organized 100 free concerts across 37 different neighborhoods in Chicago as part of our JazzCity and Let Freedom Swing programs.
Our partnership with Chicago Public Schools dates back to the 1980s and continues today through the Jazz Links education programs, which connect artists, teachers, and students through performance and mentorship focused on learning.
Our Student Council brings young music enthusiasts together to discuss the history, culture, and business of jazz music. Our Emerging Artists program provides support, guidance, and resources to budding Chicago jazz artists. We are extremely proud that 100% of our 2024 high school seniors were accepted to prestigious music programs, including Julliard, Berklee, and the Manhattan School of Music.
JIC by the Numbers
180,000
Audience members of JIC concerts and events, including the Chicago Jazz Festival
14,000
Youth/students served by JIC educational programs
1,500
Enthusiastic attendees of Jazz Institute of Chicago’s Winter Jazz Fair
100
Free concerts across 37 different neighborhoods in Chicago as part of our JazzCity and Let Freedom Swing programs
185
Educational workshops and classes for students of all levels
20
Named by Chicago Public Schools as one of its top 20 arts program providers
Gala Planning Committee
Leon Blackshaw, Kalia Coleman, Marla Forbes, Xiaowei Hargrove, David Helverson, Chiquita Jones, Lynn Colbert Jones, Meagan McNeal, Bill Norris, Jason Patterson, Gavin Phelps, Keyonn Pope, Paul Sikes, DV Williams
-
Heather Ireland Robinson
Executive Director
Heather@JazzInChicago.org
773.808.8096 -
Mollie Alexander
Interim Membership Consultant
Membership@JazzInChicago.org
816.332.0099
