Collective returns with a holiday Jazz Event, Dec. 4th
A Holiday Evening of Jazz: The Ebony Community Collective Returns
When the Ebony Community Collective hosted its first Jazz Event, organizers weren't sure what to expect. By night's end, the room was packed, the dance floor was full, and neighbors who had just met were moving to the same beat. Before the music had even faded, guests were asking: When is the next one?
The answer is Friday, December 4th. The Collective, in partnership with Arts Davidson County, presents A Holiday Evening of Jazz, a night of live music, holiday shopping, original art and delish food. The celebration begins as 6 PM, featuring heavy hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar with beer and wine. Guests can also look forward to a lively menu with items from our friends at Shoto Restaurant.
The evening holds special meaning this year as Arts Davidson County celebrates its 60th anniversary. Six decades of championing the arts in Davidson County deserves a celebration, and live jazz is the perfect way to mark it.
Headlining the night is Keith Byrd & Band, known for a warm, swinging sound that keeps feet moving and hearts open. After a memorable set at the first Jazz Event, Daitrell returns to open the show. Dr. Timogi Jackson will serve as emcee, guiding the program through the final encore.
One of the night's highlights will feature North Carolina artist Brandon Hogan created an original painting, Evening of Jazz, especially for the event. The piece is in progress done in the style of Ernie Barnes, the celebrated artist whose work reached millions through the TV show Good Times. At its center is a large horn that Hogan designed to leap off the canvas. Behind it, figures dance with abandon, a scene inspired by the Collective's first Jazz Event. The original will be sold at the event, giving one buyer the chance to take home a piece of the Collective's story.
With the holidays near, the evening also doubles as a festive marketplace. Local holiday vendors and artists will offer handmade gifts, artwork, apparel, and treats, keeping holiday dollars close to home. Interested vendors and artists can reach out at [contact info] to reserve a space.
Behind the music is a mission. Jazz was born in Black communities as a voice of freedom, creativity, and resilience, and that history drives the Collective's work. Its initiatives focus on:
Education: opening doors to learning, mentorship, and opportunity for young people and families.
Social Justice: standing up for equity, fairness, and a stronger voice for the people the Collective serves.
Financial Equity and Information: building on work the group has already done to expand access to financial knowledge and resources.
Every ticket, vendor purchase, and sponsorship helps carry that work forward. General tickets are $40.
The Collective is now seeking sponsors. Sponsorship supports live music, cultural programming, and future jazz events in Davidson County. Businesses, organizations, and individuals of every size are welcome.
Level
Amount
Benefits
Platinum
$500
Early entry, 3 event tickets, 3 complimentary drink tickets, recognition on event banner, preferred seating
Gold
$250
Early entry, 2 event tickets, 2 complimentary drink tickets, recognition on event banner, preferred seating
Patron
$100
2 event tickets, recognition on program brochure
Arts Davidson County serves as fiscal agent for sponsorships. Make checks payable to Arts Davidson County and mail them to 202 C North Main Street, Lexington, NC 27292, or scan the QR code on the event flyer to pay online.
Organizers wish to thank all sponsors in advance for making the evening possible, and they are planning special surprise for attendees. They say the last event showed what happens when this community comes together around music.
