A Jazz Age–inspired evening of music will take place on Seminary Ridge in June as part of the Gettysburg Brass Band Festival benefit concert.
“Jazz Al Fresco,” featuring the 15-piece Hotel Paradise Orchestra, is scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 7 to 9:30 pm. at the United Lutheran Seminary Pavilion Stage. The outdoor concert will highlight music from the 1920s and 1930s, with selections from composers such as Duke Ellington, Eubie Blake, Cole Porter, Fats Waller, and George and Ira Gershwin.
The orchestra, led by music director Jari Villanueva and vocalist Janet Paulsen, is known for recreating the authentic sound and style of the Jazz Age. The ensemble includes a full complement of instruments typical of the era, including brass, woodwinds, strings, piano, and percussion.
Villanueva and Paulsen share strong ties to Gettysburg. Villanueva is the co-founder of the 100 Nights of Taps program, now in its ninth year. He serves as the bugle soloist and faculty member for the Lincoln Leadership Institute and is a member of the Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania. Each year, he performs Taps at Gettysburg’s Annual Dedication Day and for First Night, as well as for the Gettysburg College freshmen during their annual commemorative walk.
Paulsen is a graduate of Gettysburg High School and studied voice with Kermit Finstad at Gettysburg College. She previously lived in Gettysburg with her sister, Judy Leslie, and brother-in-law, Bill Leslie, longtime residents who are actively involved in the local community
Tickets and dinner reservations are available through the Gettysburg Brass Band Festival website. The event will also include a tent for attendees, opening at 6 pm.