A smiling jazz vocalist and an upright bass player perform together on stage under warm purple and blue lighting. The singer holds a microphone and leans toward the bassist, both sharing a joyful moment mid-performance. A piano and drum set are visible in the background.

Improvisations Gala: Presented by the Herb Alpert Foundation

Sat, Dec 06, 2025
7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
New Orleans
New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint

Step into Storyville at the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s 8th Annual Improvisations Gala presented by the Herb Alpert Foundation. One unforgettable night of nonstop revelry with music across five stages, burlesque, Baby Dolls, gaming tables, dazzling activations, food, cocktails, and an auction. This isn’t just another gala, it’s Storyville resurrected, and you won’t want to miss it.

This year’s Improvisations Gala celebrates the legendary Storyville, New Orleans’ most infamous neighborhood, where music, nightlife, and culture collided at the turn of the 20th century. Though best known as the city’s red-light district, Storyville was also pivotal to the New Orleans sound, where musicians like Jelly Roll Morton, Buddy Bolden, and King Oliver shaped and improvised to carry the music to new audiences. 

For one night only, the Jazz Museum transforms into a living Storyville. Guests will experience multiple stages of live performances, burlesque, gaming, and interactive activities that blend the history of New Orleans with today’s vibrant music scene.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit NolaJazzMuseum.org/gala. 

The Improvisations Gala raises essential funds to support the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s educational programming, which includes our exhibitions and performances. By purchasing a ticket, you help preserve our city’s cultural legacy and sustain the future of New Orleans music. Experience the magic of New Orleans at the Improvisations Gala, presented by the Herb Alpert Foundation. This year, we’re turning up the excitement with a star-studded lineup of New Orleans talent, exquisite local cuisine, craft cocktails, immersive exhibits and light installations. It’s no wonder the Improvisations Gala is called the “best party of the year!”

 

Promotional banner for the Storyville: Sounds of the Rising Sun Improvisations Gala at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Text reads: “Presented by the Herb Alpert Foundation | Saturday, December 6.” The background features a vintage-style image of Storyville and a large gold gramophone. Four smaller photos show guests dancing, musicians performing, and colorful gala scenes. The text below reads: “For one unforgettable night, the New Orleans Jazz Museum will transform into a living Storyville—with five stages alive with music, fashion, and unforgettable performances.”