Don Redman’s Jazz Legacy Returns to Harpers Ferry for One-Night Celebration
HARPERS FERRY, WEST VIRGINIA — The sounds of jazz will once again echo through Harpers Ferry as the community gathers to honor Don Redman, known as “The Little Giant of Jazz”, with a special free concert on Friday, August 8 at 7 p.m.
Set against the historic backdrop of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the event will feature the Appalachian Chamber Music Festival string musicians performing alongside the Howard Burns Quartet. Together, they’ll present original arrangements of Redman’s most celebrated works on the lawn by the Mather Training Center.
A Free Community Event
The concert is open to the public, with RSVPs encouraged to receive updates on weather or other changes.
- General Parking: Old Shipley School lot on Fillmore Street
- Accessible Parking: Near the event lawn at 51 Mather Place
The performance is more than just a night of music — it’s a tribute to one of the most influential figures in jazz history and a celebration of Harpers Ferry’s deep cultural roots.
About Don Redman
Redman attended Storer College in Harpers Ferry from 1916 to 1920. After graduating, he rose to prominence as the first great jazz arranger, crafting music for radio, television, and big bands — including his own. His innovative style helped shape the swing and big band era, cementing his place as one of the genre’s most important architects.
Storer College’s Historic Role
Founded in 1867, Storer College was the first higher education institution in West Virginia for African Americans. From its start as a one-room missionary school, it evolved into a thriving college community that operated until 1955. Today, Harpers Ferry NHP preserves the campus and the stories of its students and faculty.
Event Sponsors
The concert is presented in partnership with:
- Appalachian Chamber Music Festival
- Harpers Ferry Park Association
- Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
- Corporation of Harpers Ferry
- Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation
More details on the event can be found at nps.gov/hafe or harpersferryhistory.org.
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