The University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music treats the audience to a special performance by Southern Comfort Jazz Orchestra with featured guest Charlton Johnson. This 17-piece jazz ensemble will thrill music lovers with the sounds of legendary Harlem Renaissance artists such as Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday, along with modern composers such as Jim McNeely and Bob Brookmeyer.

Jazz legend Charlton Johnson headlines the performance bringing his global experiences back to his hometown in this collaboration with his alma mater. Johnson started his career at 14 influenced by Memphis’ rich mixture of musical styles, homegrown talent and playing in local nightclubs on historic Beale Street. Taking his guitar skills around the world, he has played with jazz icons and all-stars including the Count Basie Orchestra, Dizzy Gillespie and Ella Fitzgerald, along with recording five albums, one of which won a GRAMMY award.