On Aug. 9, the Carmel Jazz Festival kicks off with a spectacular opening night at the Palladium, featuring the Carmel Symphony Orchestra (CSO) under the direction of Principal Guest Conductor Joel Smirnoff.
This two-day musical extravaganza, held annually in Carmel, brings together local and national music enthusiasts to enjoy performances on five stages, including all three venues within The Center for the Performing Arts. To enhance the experience, beer, wine, and food vendors will be on site to keep attendees stay energized and hydrated.
“The CSO is thrilled to partner with the Carmel Jazz Festival to welcome so many talented musicians and vocalists,” CSO Executive Director Anne Marie Chastain said. “To combine the talents of our world-class orchestra with leading jazz vocalist Antonia Bennett , we can showcase a spirit of innovation and style for a one-of-a-kind musical experience.”
The CSO, accompanied by vocalist Antonia Bennett, will pay tribute to jazz legends with a special performance honoring Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday and the 100th anniversary of “Rhapsody in Blue.” As the daughter of American jazz icon Tony Bennett, Antonia’s passion for music was nurtured from a young age, with early performances alongside her father and exposure to greats like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Grace Kelly. Her impressive background includes training at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York and the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Following the release of her EP Natural in 2010 and a digital-only album in 2012, Bennett’s debut album Embrace Me (2014) showcases her exceptional vocal talent.
The evening’s festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m. with an opening performance by pop R&B instrumental recording artist B. Thompson, known for his viral covers of popular songs, which have garnered over 100 million views. Currently touring with national recording artist Babyface, Thompson has earned recognition from celebrities like Chris Brown, Cardi B, and Mariah Carey, and has shared the stage with legendary musicians and singers such as Najee, Kirk Whalum, Kenny Lattimore, Faith Evans, Toni Braxton, and H.E.R. Despite overcoming hearing loss in his right ear, Thompson’s prodigious talent has enabled him to master multiple instruments. He was be featured on this season of America’s Got Talent on Tuesday, July 9.
Opening for the CSO and Bennett at 8 p.m. is special guest Carmel Jazz Festival Founder and Artistic Director, Blair Clark. Also accompanying the CSO and Bennett is Mackenzie Melemed, 2022 Avery Fisher Award recipient and American Pianist Association Laureate, whose career continues to gain international recognition.
The CSO and these legendary performers come together to further the goals of showcasing national and international jazz, R&B, and blues musicians while also introducing up-and-coming artists. This collaboration serves to highlight Carmel’s world-class performance venues and public spaces, and enhances the community by providing creative and excellent artistic performances accessible to all. Through these joint efforts, the organizations spotlight musical talents from diverse backgrounds and educate audiences, all within Carmel’s premier indoor venues and outdoor settings.
Ticketing options
Tickets are on sale as one package for the entire Palladium evening here.
VIP passes are available here to all Friday events on the Jazz Festival’s schedule, including the CSO’s concerts at the Palladium.
Sponsors & Donors
- 4:59 BarberLounge
- Artomobilia
- Bier Brewery
- CBIZ
- City of Carmel
- Coxhall Guild
- CSO League
- Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department
- Indiana Arts Commission
- Pedcor Companies
- Sugar Creek Winery
- The Penrod Society
About the Carmel Symphony Orchestra
The Carmel Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is a Resident Company of the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The 70-member orchestra of professional musicians performs at the Palladium, a 1,600-seat concert hall at the Center. Founded in 1975, the CSO performs concerts featuring an eclectic repertoire of some of the world’s greatest symphonic music. The CSO is committed to enhancing the community’s quality of life through creative, artistically excellent performances and educational experiences for diverse audiences of all ages. Visit CarmelSymphony.org to learn more.