James Tormé (jazz vocalist), Renee Olstead (TV star) and Paul Lines (Artistic Director of the Pasadena Jazz Institute); all of which are among the many amazing musicians appearing at “The Nutcracker Swings.”

Christmas stories don’t get much more fanciful than the story of The Nutcracker. However, Duke Ellington knew how to bring fancy to new heights, which is just what he did when he jazzed up Tchaikovsky’s suite from the ballet. On December 19th, this sophisticated classic brings the Christmas magic to the Pasadena Convention Center’s Grand Ballroom in a concert entitled “The Nutcracker Swings,” which benefits the Pasadena Jazz Institute.
“There’s no better way to celebrate Christmas than with music and community,” says Paul Lines, Artistic Director of the Jazz Institute, “so we’ve put together a stellar lineup including the Pasadena Jazz Orchestra, redwhite+bluezz all stars, the Sacred Nation Gospel Choir, with special guests James Tormé, Renee Olstead, Sylvia St. James and Maestro Victor Vener, plus a visit from Santa!” Music on the program includes highlights from Vince Guaraldi’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “The Nutcracker Suite.” Rounding out the bill is a sampling of Christmas favorites ranging from gospel to big band to R&B/jazz fusion and more.
The evening begins at 6pm with holiday dining. The concert, which will benefit the institute’s jazz camp program, begins at 7pm.
Concertgoers will be seated at tables and have the option of purchasing a full-service three-course meal with their seats for $35 per person. A self-serve buffet will also be available, with entrées from $10-$18. Beverages including wine and a cash bar will also be available.
“The Nutcracker Swings” will be held at The Pasadena Convention Center (300 E. Green St., Pasadena, CA) on December 19. Tickets range from $30 to $70 per seat and can be purchased by visiting nutcrackerswings.com.