Professional jazz trumpeter Derrick Gardner will perform alongside local artists and students as part of the annual Warwick Academy Jazz Fundraising Gala Dinner and Dance.

Funds raised by the March 1 event will go towards the maintenance of the musical instruments, upgrades to the school’s music suites and a learning workshop at the Leitchfield Summer Jazz Camp for the jazz students.

A school spokeswoman said: “The Warwick Academy Jazz band has been the hottest ticket over the past few years, from playing at Cablevision’s “Salute to Service”, winning Bermuda’s Talented Teen competition, playing for The Premier’s Concert, corporate events and weddings. You name it and they have been asked to play at it.

“But the highlight is always The Warwick Academy Jazz Fundraising Gala Dinner and Dance. The evening promises to be packed full of the best jazz music Bermuda has seen in a while.”

Mr Gardner, who has previously performed with Tony Bennett, George Benson, Harry Connick Jr’s Big Band and the Count Basie Orchestra, will take the stage with Warwick Academy Students and local jazz musicians Toni Bari, Stan Gilbert and Ronnie Lopes as part of the event.

In addition to the music, the school hall will be changed into a “Mardi Gras wonderland” for the event, with New Orleans style food and a silent auction.

Tickets cost $100 and can be reserved by e-mailing sfitzsimmons@warwickacad.bm.