Arturo O'Farrill has spent a career proving Afro-Latin jazz is a conversation between traditions rather than a fixed style, and pairing his orchestra with Taiwanese composer-bassist Vincent Hsu extends that argument across the Pacific. Doing it in Flushing, inside an 1862 landmarked town hall, is the kind of programming only Queens produces. If you think you know what a big-band jazz concert sounds like, this one is built to break that.
What to expect
A seated concert in a restored nineteenth-century hall with strong acoustics and an intimate capacity compared with Manhattan jazz rooms. Expect a full orchestra on stage rather than a small combo, with extended arrangements built around the cross-cultural collaboration. The building's gallery spaces are usually open before performances.
Good to know
- The 7 to Flushing-Main Street leaves a short walk to Northern Boulevard
- Buy ahead - the hall is small and name jazz bookings sell out
- Arrive early to see the building's galleries before the concert
- Downtown Flushing's restaurants make this an easy dinner-and-show night
- The venue is a landmarked building; check accessibility options in advance
- Parking in downtown Flushing is difficult, so the 7 is the better route
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Common questions
Who is Arturo O'Farrill?
A Grammy-winning pianist, composer and bandleader of the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra.
Where is Flushing Town Hall?
At 137-35 Northern Boulevard in Flushing, in a landmarked 1862 Romanesque Revival building.
Is the concert seated?
Yes, performances in the main hall are seated.
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