Sarah Hicks leads the Minnesota Orchestra and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra in a program of yuletide jazz. Irvin Mayfield’s trumpet shines in original compositions and arrangements that demonstrate his love and mastery of New Orleans jazz, while journalist Soledad O'Brien gives a reading of her own slightly "modernized" version of the much-loved Clement Moore poem, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. An original production by the Minnesota Orchestra, this concert will also feature special surprise guests.

A trio of jazz stars headlines "Sing the Truth," a new production honoring the music and spirit of great women of jazz, folk, R&B, gospel and the blues. Performing separately and together, Dianne Reeves, Angelique Kidjo and Lizz Wright share the legacies of such recently-departed legends as Miriam Makeba, Abbey Lincoln and Odetta, also performing songs of their own and of other notable women, from Nina Simone and Billie Holiday to Lauryn Hill.

Please note: the Minnesota Orchestra does not perform on this program.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band, a favorite of Twin Cities audiences, returns in this concert featuring a truly unique collaboration with the innovative dance company Trey McIntyre Project. Described by New Orleans' The Times-Picayune as "an artistic triumph," the partnership blends an exciting alliance of music and ballet athleticism in Trey McIntyre Project's dance suites Ma Maison and The Sweeter End.

Please note: the Minnesota Orchestra does not perform on this program.