KPR’s Big Band Christmas will celebrate the joy of jazz

LAWRENCE – Kansas Public Radio will return with the Big Band Christmas holiday jazz concert for another year of festive cheer. Join KPR staff members at 8 p.m. Dec. 9 at Liberty Hall. Doors will open at 7 p.m.

The concert will feature a night of swingin’ Yuletide favorites with the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, an internationally acclaimed performing arts group providing jazz entertainment and education to the Kansas City area and beyond. Formed in 2003, the ensemble brings together 19 area musicians, including direction from bandleader and trumpeter Clint Ashlock. Special guest Ron Gutierrez will provide vocals.

This year, general admission seats have been expanded from the balcony to include a select number of seats on the main level of the theatre. All general admission seats are first come, first served, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

Don’t delay; this event has been known to sell out. Tickets are available for purchase at Ticketmaster or at the Liberty Hall box office. A service charge may be added to the order. Tickets can be purchased on the night of the concert, if available.

The event is made possible by Dr. Stephen Chronister of Healing Smiles of Topeka.

KPR, a 22-time winner of the KAB’s Station of the Year, licensed to the University of Kansas, broadcasts on 91.5 FM and 96.1 FM (KPR2) in Lawrence, 89.7 FM in Emporia, 91.3 FM in Olsburg-Junction City, 89.9 FM in Atchison, 90.3 FM in Chanute, and 99.5 FM and 97.9 FM (KPR2) in Manhattan. KPR can be heard online and KPR2, a news-talk programming stream, which can be heard on an HD receiver or on KPR’s website.