WWOZ has revealed the lineup for its 28th annual Piano Night benefit show, which is slated for the House of Blues New Orleans on Monday, April 25.
This year’s Piano Night will be headlined by Jamaican jazz icon Monty Alexander. He will be performing his Harlem Kingston Express program, a show that merges classic jazz with the rhythms and vibrations of his native Jamaica.
The event will also feature performances from Henry Butler, Marcia Ball, John Gros, Joe Krown, Tom McDermott, Courtney Bryan, Kyle Roussel and Marty Sammon, along with a few surprise guests.
In addition to the music, this year’s Piano Night will honor the legacy of late singer-songwriter/producer/piano master Allen Toussaint. He was to be the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, but his son Reggie will be on hand to accept the award on his behalf.
Led by Piano Night Music Director Renard Poche, members of Toussaint’s longtime band will join this year’s performers on stage. Each of the featured pianists will pay tribute to Toussaint by reinterpreting one of his songs during their set. The evening will also include a short video tribute with rare and previously unseen footage of the New Orleans legend. (In related news, Nonesuch Records just released the details for Toussaint’s final album, American Tunes).
For almost three decades, Piano Night has celebrated the rich history of New Orleans piano players. The benefit is traditionally held on the Monday between the weekend of Jazz Fest, and includes sets on all three House of Blues stages. However, unlike past years, Piano Night 2016 will not be broadcast live on WWOZ.
Tickets for the event are now on sale via the House of Blues.