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

As the Jazz Institute of Chicago celebrates its 56th year, we are proud to present

GALA 2025 BRANFORD MARSALIS!

720 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

Become a member today for discounted tickets.

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.

GALA Chairperson

LYNN COLBERT-JONES, CHAIRPERSON

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.

Samira Joy, performing at the 2024 Gala

Samira 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, Xiaowei Hargrove, David Helverson, Chiquita Jones, Lynn Colbert Jones, Meagan McNeal, Bill Norris, Jason Patterson, Gavin Phelps, Keyonn Pope, Paul Sikes, DV Williams

Become a Sponsor and LET YOUR BRAND SHINE AT GALA 2025 AND BEYOND!

reach ThOUSANDS to millions of chicago area consumers

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ELEVATE YOUR BRAND

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BE A FORCE FOR PROFOUND POSITIVE CHANGE

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Join an influential group of Chicago artists and community and business leaders.

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Invest in the Future of Jazz

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reach ThOUSANDS to millions of chicago area consumers :: ELEVATE YOUR BRAND :: BE A FORCE FOR PROFOUND POSITIVE CHANGE :: Join an influential group of Chicago artists and community and business leaders. :: Invest in the Future of Jazz ::