The Spirit of Jazz: A Tribute to Ken Peplowski
Presented in partnership with the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, this concert celebrates the enduring legacy of legendary clarinetist and tenor saxophonist Ken Peplowski, who passed away in early 2026. In the weeks before his passing, he completed plans for the second year of his summer concert at the David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center at Pocantico, an event devoted to the spirit and rich history of jazz.
Pianist Rossano Sportiello, Peplowski’s longtime collaborator, will carry forward his curatorial vision with a distinguished lineup of local and national musicians. The program will honor Peplowski and the legendary artists he admired, featuring big band swing, contemporary jazz, and works by Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman.
The concert begins with an ensemble led by Sportiello, who will be joined by Willie Jones III, Jay Rattman, Harry Allen, Katie Thiroux, and Summer Camargo. Internationally acclaimed guitarist John Pizzarelli and his trio will perform the second half of the show.
Following the concert, attendees are invited to stay and enjoy food available for purchase from on-site food trucks.
This event will be followed by a reception in the DR Center Gallery, now showing Woven Wonders: Kykuit’s Picasso Tapestries.
Guests may arrive 45 minutes prior to the event start time to enjoy the new Sculpture Walk outside the DR Center. Please note that events will begin promptly at their scheduled start time. Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of staff.
Presented in partnership with the RBF Culpeper Arts & Culture program and the National Jazz Museum in Harlem as part of the Culpeper Summer Performance Series.
All sales final; no refunds.
