On April 28, 2025, the Trombone Shorty Foundation celebrated our 12th Annual Shorty Fest Presented by Acura. We were thrilled to share our city’s rich musical and cultural heritage with the community on this revered “Jazz Fest Monday.” This year, the lineup at our sold out event featured music by renowned artists Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Black Opry Revue, “The Jersey Takeover” with Dogs in a Pile and special guests Robert Randolph and Jake Clemons (of the E Street Band Tour). The students from the Trombone Shorty Music Academy took the stage as special guests during each set, which was incredible to watch.
In addition to the indoor celebration, Shorty Fest 2025 featured a free outdoor “Cultural Block Party” featuring live performances, plus a silent auction and an additional VIP tent which included a special viewing of the outdoor events, seating, and open bar. The event included outdoor performances from Academy Alumni Students, New Groove Brass Band featuring Big Chief Juan Pardo, and a Battle of the Bands between G.W. Carver and Abramson Sci Academy. As part of the outdoor events, a very special dedication ceremony took place to induct Shannon Powell into Tipitina’s “Walk of Fame” as a culture bearer and icon of the New Orleans music community.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Acura for their generous continued support, as well as sponsorship from the Gia Maione Prima Foundation.