A Tribute to the Triumphant Trombone at Kirkwood Performing Arts Center

In the Strauss Black Box Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center

We thought about 76 trombones... but we managed to narrow it down to 10! This year, the Kirkwood Arts Foundation’s annual Fall Fundraiser Concert puts the spotlight on the mighty trombone, bringing together 10 outstanding trombonists for a one-of-a-kind celebration of the instrument and the incredible musicians who play it. Featured trombonists include John Covelli, Cody Henry, Jim Owens, Ari Adams, Lamar Harris, Dave Dickey, Evan Palmer, Jamie Burchett, Johari Kimeu and Eddie Clark, backed by an outstanding rhythm section featuring Jesse Gannon on piano, Chris Meschede on bass and Drew Weiss on drums. Also joining the celebration are vocalists Janet Evra, Erin Bode and Joe Mancuso, along with Ari Adams, who will be doing double duty on vocals and trombone. And save some room for the finale—when all 10 trombones take the stage at once! A Tribute to the Triumphant Trombone continues a tradition that began with our 2024 fundraiser honoring the late David Sanborn and the great saxophone tradition of St. Louis, featuring five of the region’s top saxophonists. In 2025, City of Gabriels turned the spotlight to St. Louis’ trumpet tradition, bringing together six significant area trumpet players, including 91-year-old Joe Bozzi in what would become one of his final performances before his passing on September 1, 2026. Now it’s the trombone’s turn. Join us for a night celebrating great music, remarkable St. Louis musicians and another chapter in our city’s rich musical tradition—all benefiting the Kirkwood Arts Foundation.