Join author Trinity Bursey and the Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra for a powerful and joyful fusion of music and storytelling. In this one-of-a-kind 40-minute program, Trinity brings her beloved children’s book, “The Day the Instruments Split,” to life through a live reading accompanied by a full 17-piece jazz big band under the direction of Gregg Gelb. Featuring Gelb’s original compositions, the music is designed to reflect and enhance the book’s central themes.
Through engaging narration, vibrant video animations of the book, and rich, live jazz performance, audiences explore key ideas such as the value of collaboration, the confusion caused by misunderstanding, and the harmony that emerges when everyone works together. For many students, this will be their first experience hearing a live jazz orchestra, making it an unforgettable introduction to the genre.
The program includes:
– Interactive pre-show activities to prepare students to engage with the story and its themes.
– A live reading and musical performance with animated visuals of the book. Z
– A Q&A session and closing activities to reinforce the story’s message.
– An optional introduction to jazz — including fundamentals, improvisation, and historical context.
This unique experience celebrates creativity and the power of working together.
Artist Background
Trinity Bursey, the creative mind behind the enchanting “The Little Instrumentals” book series, brings her diverse experiences as a school counselor, educator, and former professional basketball player to the literary stage. Through captivating read-aloud sessions, Trinity adeptly weaves tales that aspire to ignite young hearts with invaluable lessons centered around self-celebration and embracing the beauty of diversity in both oneself and others. Gregg Gelb is a recipient of the Raleigh Medal of Arts in 2018 and Jazz Composers Award from the NC Arts Council. When Gelb was Visiting Artist at Central Carolina Community College in Sanford, N.C. from 1989-1991 he formed the non-profit, Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra. For 30+ years its mission has been to increase and educate as well as to build and develop the jazz audience.
Search Criteria
- Program Type: Performance
- Discipline: Multi-Disciplinary, Music, Storytelling
- Grade Level: Elementary
- Cultural Context: African, Caribbean, Hispanic
- Accepts bookings in Johnston County
