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Ode to Billie Holiday: Tonya Nicole + The Charleston Jazz Orchestra
PURCHASE TICKETS
You can renew or purchase a Flex Pass online or by phone.
To purchase by phone, call the Box Office (Mon-Fri, 10AM-5PM): (843) 641-0011
Ode to Billie Holiday: Feat. Tonya Nicole
Our highly anticipated Season 18 begins with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra’s tribute to Billie Holiday, featuring Charleston’s own, Tonya Nicole. Billie Holiday, also known as ‘Lady Day’, is considered one of jazz’s greatest vocalists and who bravely revolutionized jazz, blues and popular music. Her distinctive, expressive style was strongly influenced by jazz instrumentalists and widely known to convey intense and personal feelings through her distinctive voice.
Following the success of her 2025 Charleston Jazz Festival performance, Tonya Nicole’s rich vocal expression with southern warmth glides from velvety lows to soaring highs effortlessly blending music and storytelling to an unforgettable experience. We look forward to having you join us for the Charleston Jazz Orchestra’s Season 18 opening performance, Ode to Billie Holiday!
Concert Length: 90 min (no intermission)
This performance is made possible in part by MUSC
About Tonya Nicole
Tonya Nicole is a powerhouse R&B/Jazz recording artist and actress with the renowned PURE Theatre, effortlessly blending music and storytelling into an unforgettable experience. Her voice, rich with southern warmth, glides from velvety lows to soaring highs, captivating audiences at every turn. With timeless elegance and a magnetic stage presence, she was named Charleston’s R&B Artist of the Year 2024, solidifying her place as a true artist. Her 2022 debut R&B EP, #1996KindaLove, left listeners eager for more, showcasing her soulful versatility. Now, she prepares to unveil her highly anticipated jazz album, TRIBE, set for release in early 2026; a heartfelt tribute to her roots and the unwavering support of her community.
Often hailed as one of the top things to do in Charleston, SC, attending a Charleston Jazz Orchestra concert is an unforgettable experience. If you are new to the jazz genre and big band style, take a risk and surprise yourself. Our director Robert Lewis will guide you through the nuances and significance of each piece, sharing stories behind the songs and composers. Many arrangements have been specially created by our own orchestra members and can’t be heard anywhere else in the world. You can get a taste of past performances on our YouTube channel here.
When you step through the doors of the Charleston Music Hall you are stepping back in time into a circa 1849 train station, historically known as the Tower Depot. You will hear the iconic sounds of jazz wafting through the lobby, reminiscent of the city’s rich jazz history. Stop by one of the lobby bars on the lower or upper lever to purchase snacks, beer, wine or soft drinks to bring with you into the theatre. Our friendly ushers will greet you and assist you in finding your way to your seats – there’s not a bad seat in the house!
Our audience is diverse and you will see patrons of all ages and walks of life, including couples, singles, students, families, and groups of friends – jazz has never met a stranger and all are welcome. Many of our guests are tourists visiting Charleston, and some of our regular attendees have been coming to concerts since the beginning of the organization. We hope that you will become one of our “regulars” as well by joining the Charleston Jazz family by becoming a Season Subscriber, Member, Sponsor, Donor, Student or Advertiser. There is a place for YOU at Charleston Jazz.
I have been a season ticket holder since the inception of Charleston Jazz Orchestra for many wonderful reasons. The caliber of performances are spectacular. Their musical selections appeal to all musical tastes regardless of age. The Music Hall is the perfect venue for such a group of phenomenal artists.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Lil H., Google Review
We love the Charleston Jazz Orchestra! We have been attending their concerts for about seven years. They are so talented and entertaining.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Cheryl I., Google Review
Watch this video of a past Charleston Jazz Orchestra performance:
Venue:
Charleston Music Hall
37 John St., Charleston, SC 29403
Parking:
Camden Garage
47 John St., Charleston, SC 29403
Charleston Visitors Center Parking Garage
73 Mary St., Charleston, SC 29403
Marion Square Garage
399 King St., Charleston, SC 29403
Accessible seating locations are available on the first floor of the theater and marked on the seating map. Assisted Listening Devices and Sensory Inclusive bags are available at the Box Office.
Nearby Dining:
Note: These links are provided for your convenience. Charleston Jazz does not represent or endorse any of these services.
Lodging Package:
We are proud to partner with the Francis Marion hotel as our official lodging partner in 2026. Book the Francis Marion’s Charleston Jazz Package this season! Your package includes accommodations at the Francis Marion Hotel, (2) cocktails at the Swamp Fox Restaurant & (2) tickets to the Charleston Jazz Orchestra!
Other Lodging Options:
Note: These links are provided for your convenience. Charleston Jazz does not represent or endorse any of these services.
Bus Services:
The CARTA bus system offers a free downtown shuttle called the DASH. Visit their site for map and schedule here.
Car Services:
There are a variety of local transportation services available including taxis, Uber and Lyft.
Pedi Cab Services
Note: These links are provided for your convenience. Charleston Jazz does not represent or endorse any of these services.
Refreshments are available for purchase at the bars located in the lobby and upstairs. The bars offer snacks and candy as well as beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages.
See you at the show!
