Tue Dec 3
Tony Addison Sextet "Tribute to Art Blakey"
7PM / $30 | $7 Fees Get Tickets
Tony Addison
Hailing from his cherished hometown of Washington, D.C., Tony Addison emerges as a dynamic figure deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of music. Raised in an environment where melodies resonated, Tony's upbringing was steeped in a musical ambiance. Despite this sonorous backdrop, his passion gravitated towards the realm of sports, with a particular affinity for amateur boxing. A pivotal moment etched in his memory features a youthful Tony captivated by a television screen, observing a dapper percussionist adorned in white—a reflection of himself as a Black man. This formative encounter, though initially fleeting, left an indelible mark on his psyche, one he aspires to replicate by inspiring today's youth.
Tony's ardor for entertainment and music found expression as he danced his way onto local television screens, captivating audiences for years. His sonic palette resonated with hip hop, go-go, rap, funk, and R&B, but it was his introduction to jazz through the Lettum Play summer program in Washington, D.C., that catalyzed a transformative journey. This initiative, tailored for teenagers, not only nurtured instrumental prowess but also immersed them in the essence and history of jazz. Embarking on a dedicated path, Tony further honed his craft through extensive study at institutions such as the Washington Music Conservatory and the University of the District of Columbia, bolstered by insightful private tutelage.
Tony Addison's journey unveiled an illustrious chapter marked by collaborations with luminaries of the music realm. Sharing the stage with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Stanley Turrentine, Webster Young, Freddie and Lionel Cole, and a constellation of others, he illuminated venues that hold historical and cultural significance, including the likes of Blues Alley, the Kennedy Center, Metro Stage, Studio Theatre, and Anacostia Playhouse, among prestigious others.
Yet, his commitment to music extends beyond the limelight, as he selflessly volunteers his talents to uplift local hospitals, senior centers, and nursing homes. Deeply devoted to his faith, Tony finds fulfillment in serving within his church's music ministry and passing on his musical acumen as a revered private drum instructor.
In retrospect, Tony Addison's trajectory embodies an unwavering dedication to his craft, a journey that intertwines personal passion with resonant societal impact. His resounding beats and melodic devotion stand as an emblem of inspiration, uniting the rhythm of his Washington, D.C. origins with a harmonious symphony of outreach and mentorship.
7PM / $30 | $7 Fees Get Tickets
1. Final sale, no refunds, not transferable.
2. $15 food/beverage minimum per person not included in ticket price.
3. Seating first come at the door. Doors open 6 PM & 8:45 PM respectively.
4. Photography or Recording of any kind is prohibited during the performance.
5. Keep conversation to a minimum during the performance.