A Tribute to JONI’S JAZZ, Newtown CT, July 27

Posted June 01, 2025

JONI MITCHELL’s 1966 hit song “Both Sides Now,” was just the first of her beloved classics, and has been recorded more than 1,500 times by a broad range of artists and genres. But fans might not realize that some of the finest jazz musicians in the world lined up to perform and record those songs with her, including Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius, Lee Ritenour, Herbie Hancock, Charles Mingus, and many more.

In 2015, when newscasters announced that “folk singer” Joni Mitchell had suffered a brain aneurysm, Leslie Ballard, who had been performing Joni’s music for years, determined to highlight Joni’s jazz roots, and formed Joni Mitchell’s Jazz, with a group of gifted musicians, in her honor. They sold out their very first performance.

During her 30 years in New York City, Leslie performed professionally a wide range of musical styles, including the Amato Opera, Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir, Wexford Gaelic Trio, and backing vocals on countless albums.

With song videos onscreen and narration, this group of topflight professional musicians play Joni’s most beloved songs, as she recorded them. Joni Mitchells’ Jazz is Leslie Ballard, lead vocal and flute; Christian Martirano, keyboards; Tony DePaolo, guitar; Steven Moran, sax; Corky Ballard, bass; Tony Traina, drums

An evening of Joni Mitchell’s extraordinary music, fine wine and food in Aquila’s Nest Vineyards’ cozy Tasting Room. Seating is limited, so reservations are required: please make reservations early.

Aquila’s Nest Vineyards
56 Pole Bridge Rd. Newtown, CT.
Sunday, July 27th, 2025 6:00-8:30

Enjoy the Vineyards’ gourmet baskets, order from local restaurants. Steak-in-It food truck and the Greek Crave mobile chef will be onsite. Guests are also welcome to bring their own refreshments, with the exception of beverages.

Tickets: Reservations@AquilasNestVineyards.com

More information here