The University of Iowa’s Hancher will present the Ellis Marsalis Quartet in a holiday-themed performance on Friday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Englert Theatre in downtown Iowa City.

Marsalis hails from New Orleans and is regarded as one of the premier modern jazz pianists performing today. His musical talents are shared by his family as well: Marsalis is father to Wynton (trumpet), Branford (saxophone), Delfeayo (trombone), and Jason (drums), all of whom are also influential jazz musicians.

The Ellis Marsalis Quartet includes Derek Douget on saxophone, Jason Stewart on bass, and Jason Marsalis on drums.

Ellis Marsalis has played alongside legends, including Cannonball Adderly, Nat Adderly, and Al Hirt. After recording more than 20 albums, Marsalis turned his focus to educating promising jazz musicians. His former pupils include pianist and vocalist Harry Connick Jr. and trumpeters Terence Blanchard and Nicholas Payton.

The performance by the Ellis Marsalis Quartet is supported by the Hancher Partners and gifts to the Hancher Circle through the University of Iowa Foundation.

Tickets, which are $37/$32 for non-students, $33/$28 for senior citizens, $33/$10 for students, and $18/$10 for youth, are available from the Hancher Box Office. Located on the first floor of the south end of the Old Capitol Town Center near the parking ramp, the Hancher Box Office is open for phone 319-335-1160 or 800-HANCHER) or walk-up business from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays. Tickets may be ordered online at hancher.uiowa.edu. Any remaining tickets will be available for sale one hour before show time at the Englert Theatre.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact the Hancher Box Office in advance at 319-335-1158.