“Tunes for Toys,” the charity event created by the Trombone Shorty Foundation and the Gia Maione Prima Foundation, is in its 6th year of community-focused philanthropy. Each year, “Tunes for Toys” simultaneously provides its guests with a way to give back during the holidays and a night of live music and fun. 

The December 19 event includes performances by Trombone Shorty Academy students with special guests Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, Hot 8 Brass Band and New Breed Brass Band.

“This event is very special to my heart,” said Trombone Shorty. “We love being able to showcase our Academy students’ hard work, and, at the same time, give back to children in communities like the Treme, where I was born and raised.”

Toys collected at the event will be distributed on Dec. 20  at “Toys from Troy,” an event at Warren Easton High School. The “Toys from Troy” event will include refreshments, kids activities and photos with Santa from 1pm-3:30pm.

The “Tunes for Toys” event is open to anyone aged 18 and older. A donation of at least one toy per guest is required for admission. Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave.) will host the event. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and music starts at 8 p.m. The Trombone Shorty Academy students will headline the event, marking their debut on the Tipitina’s stage. For more information about the event, visit the Trombone Shorty Foundation website, here.