WASHINGTON, DC– The Library of Congress has announced the Spring and Summer 2023 concert series, Series Presents. It will feature a June 8th, 9th and 10th tribute to Billy Strayhorn and to celebrate the 2018 acquisition of the Billy Strayhorn Manuscripts along with an array of Strayhorn archival material. The 3 day celebration will include musical tributes by some of the great jazz artists of today, as well as a panel discussion and movie screenings highlighting Billy Strayhorn’s contribution to both films cinematic success. The events will be presented live in the historic Coolidge Auditorium unless otherwise noted:
Thursday, June 8th, 8 p.m.: Bill Charlap Trio, Jon Faddis, trumpet, and Samara Joy, vocals
The Bill Charlap Trio with trumpeter Jon Faddis perform Strayhorn’s unforgettable songs — and some piano solos.
Friday, June 9th, 7 p.m. Screening of “Anatomy of a Murder”
Mary Pickford Theater, James Madison Building
The music of Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington plays an important role in this film nominated for seven Academy Awards.
Saturday, June 10th, 2 p.m.: Screening of “Paris Blues”
Mary Pickford Theater, James Madison Building
“Paris Blues” is a classic love story about American expatriate jazz musicians in Paris, with memorable performances by acting legends including Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward, Sidney Poitier, Diahann Carroll and Louis Armstrong.
Saturday, June 10th, 4 p.m.: Strayhorn Known and Unknown Symposium
Room 119, Thomas Jefferson Building
David Hajdu, Author of “Lush Life: A Biography of Billy Strayhorn”
Robert G. O’Meally, Zora Neale Hurston Professor of English, Columbia University Professor Lisa Barg, Schulich School of Music of McGill University
A. Alyce Claerbaut, President, Billy Strayhorn Songs, Inc.
Join for the keynote lecture at 4 p.m. by Strayhorn biographer David Hajdu, followed by a panel discussion at 5 p.m. Presented through the generous support of the Revada Foundation of the Logan Family. Part of the Library’s “Salute to Strayhorn” celebration. Register for tickets here.
Saturday, June 10th, 8 p.m.: Big Band Evening
Strayhorn Known and Unknown
Loren Schoenberg, conductor, Russell Malone, guitar