For centuries, music has played a central role in spiritual practice. Personally, nothing uplifts my soul more thoroughly or instantly than the sound of a church choir. For every person of every creed, there exists some variation of this elemental experience.
In the 1960s, it was Duke Ellington who decisively brought this idea into the modern era with his sacred concerts, marrying jazz with the “big questions” that occupy spirituality in all belief systems.
Composer and pianist Gerald Clayton will bring Ellington‘s work into the present day, engaging a large ensemble of singers, instrumentalists, and dancers on January 31, 2026, the opening of The Soraya‘s fifth annual jazz festival. Please note the change of date, and see below for more information.
In this video Clayton discusses for the first time his vision for this monumental undertaking.
IMPORTANT DATE CHANGE
Due to the 2025 GRAMMY Award telecast on Sunday, Feb. 1, the date for the Duke Ellington concert has be rescheduled to Saturday, Jan. 31, at 2 p.m.
If you are a current ticket holder for the original date on Feb. 1, The Soraya’s Ticket Office will contact you directly to reschedule your tickets.
JUST ADDED
GRAMMY-nominated jazz vocalist Christie Dashiel will now join Michael Mayo, Tonality, and Josette Wiggan for this special performance.
Upcoming Performances
A Tribute to Quincy Jones
