Kansas City Jazz Orchestra to Perform Benny Goodman Classic

Orchestra to bring Goodman's iconic Carnegie Hall concert to Folly Theater on April 11th.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:36am

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A dynamic, abstract composition of jagged black silhouettes and bold, saturated colors, capturing the energy and artistry of a live jazz performance.The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra's tribute to Benny Goodman's legendary Carnegie Hall concert will bring the electrifying sounds of classic big band jazz to the Folly Theater.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra is preparing to perform Benny Goodman's legendary 1938 Carnegie Hall concert at the Folly Theater on April 11th. In a recent interview, orchestra director Clint Ashlock discussed the significance of the Goodman performance and the musicians joining the KCJO for the special event.

Why it matters

Benny Goodman's 1938 Carnegie Hall concert is considered a landmark moment in jazz history, marking the genre's mainstream acceptance. The KCJO's performance will allow Kansas City audiences to experience this iconic show live, introducing Goodman's timeless music to a new generation.

The details

The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra will faithfully recreate Goodman's historic Carnegie Hall setlist, including classics like 'Don't Be That Way' and 'Sing, Sing, Sing.' Ashlock noted that the KCJO has assembled an all-star lineup of guest musicians to capture the energy and virtuosity of Goodman's original performance.

  • The KCJO performance will take place on April 11, 2026 at the Folly Theater in Kansas City.
  • Benny Goodman's iconic Carnegie Hall concert was held on January 16, 1938.

The players

Clint Ashlock

Director of the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra.

Kansas City Jazz Orchestra

A professional jazz ensemble based in Kansas City, known for their interpretations of classic big band repertoire.

Benny Goodman

Legendary jazz clarinetist and bandleader whose 1938 Carnegie Hall concert is considered a landmark moment in jazz history.

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What they’re saying

“Benny Goodman's Carnegie Hall concert was a pivotal moment that helped bring jazz into the mainstream. We're honored to recreate that magic for Kansas City audiences.”

— Clint Ashlock, Director, Kansas City Jazz Orchestra

What’s next

Tickets for the KCJO's Benny Goodman Live At Carnegie Hall performance on April 11th are on sale now through the Folly Theater box office.

The takeaway

The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra's tribute to Benny Goodman's historic Carnegie Hall concert will allow local music fans to experience a landmark moment in jazz history, further cementing the city's reputation as a hub for world-class live music.