Piano Legends: The Charleston Jazz Orchestra
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
Piano Legends
Piano Legends celebrates and explores the rich legacy of iconic pianists throughout Jazz history. Spanning the evolution of jazz from Ragtime to Modern Fusion, the Charleston Jazz Orchestra will present the styles and innovations of legendary jazz pianists such as Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Thelonious Monk and Bill Evans, to showcase how this grandiose instrument shaped the genre’s emotional and harmonic language. Featured with your Charleston Jazz Orchestra will be 4 outstanding members of our jazz piano community to pay homage to the Piano Legends who shaped its sound.
Concert Length: 90 min (no intermission)
This performance is made possible in part by MUSC
About Gerald Gregory
If you’re ever roaming the streets on concert night, and spot a man in a tux, skateboarding at top speed to the Charleston Music Hall, well then, you’ve probably just seen CJO pianist Gerald Gregory (“quite a sight,” admits Gerald).Gerald Gregory has performed with some of the greats here in Charleston, as well as the Brooklyn Philharmonic, Erykah Badu and NAS, Darius Rucker, Jeff Sipe, Kebbi Williams, John Ellis and Diane Schuur. Gerald also studied under both Randy Hurt in Roanoke, and Tommy Gill at the College of Charleston.
About Demetrius Doctor
A highly sought-after musician, bandleader, arranger, and producer, Demetrius is the Director of the Charleston Jazz Academy and leader of Momentum. Demetrius is also a favorite guest performer with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra. He has had the opportunity to work with gospel artists like Tye Tribbett, Jonathan Nelson, and Duranice Pace, as well as jazz musicians like Fred Wesley and Freddy Cole. Doctor has toured Italy, Spain, Croatia, and the United States.
About Abdiel Iriarte
Hailing from Venezuela, Iriarte has made waves in the Charleston music scene as a performer, educator, and recording artist. A highly sought-after pianist, Abdiel headlined the 2022 Charleston Jazz Festival, combining the sound of Afro-Venezuelan-Cuban rhythms with a taste of modern jazz. He performs regularly at Forte Jazz Lounge.
About Arshak Sirunyan
Arshak Sirunyan, a distinguished Armenian composer and pianist from Yerevan, began his musical journey at the age of seven under the guidance of leading mentors at the A. Spendiarov School of Music and later at the Komitas State Conservatory. His career spans classical and contemporary works for piano, voice, ensembles, and orchestra, with highlights including a 2002 composition performed by the Komitas String Quartet and the 2023 premiere of his original full-length ballet at the Maryland Theater. Beyond performance, Arshak has made a mark in the recording industry with acclaimed albums such as Hoodman’s Blind (2014), which featured Grammy-winning collaborators, won top honors at the International Songwriting Competition, and earned nominations at the Independent Music Awards. His music has been praised as both unique and compelling, cementing his reputation as a versatile and innovative artist.
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!
