Local jazz powerhouse, the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, returns to the Hylton Performing Arts Center with a soaring celebration of two of America’s greatest inventions – jazz and aviation – in the world premiere of Paul Glenshaw’s “To Swing Through the Sky.” This unparalleled evening features exuberant dance, an insightful narrative and the swinging sounds of big band music as it celebrates the legacies of great American innovators like Louis Armstrong and Charles Lindbergh. The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra’s “To Swing Through the Sky” is at the Hylton Performing Arts Center on Saturday, October 3 at 8 p.m.
Born just one year apart, Louis Armstrong and Charles Lindbergh took very different directions in life, but both encapsulated the spirit of innovation and exploration at the dawn of the 20th century. Louis Armstrong, one of the most influential improvisers in jazz history, taught the world to swing with his stunning music and joyful performances. Aviator Charles Lindbergh took the boundaries of aviation to new heights by completing the first solo transatlantic airplane flight. The unique concert celebrates Armstrong, Lindbergh and the many creators and thinkers who rode a wave of new American energy that changed the world and inspired generations that followed.
Under the artistic direction of alto sax virtuoso Jim Carroll, The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra comprises outstanding jazz musicians from the greater D.C. metro area. Carroll, now the Director of Instrumental Studies at George Mason University, has a versatile music career, touring with artists from Michael Jackson to Woody Herman and The Thundering Herd. He is a charter member of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, in residence at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or Create a FREE Account. Thank you.
Recent Stories

Looking for art opportunities in the DMV? ArtsFairfax.org is your online destination to find and promote artist calls in and around Fairfax. Our Artist Calls directory is always free to use and highlights opportunities to audition, exhibit artwork, or secure commissions. Be sure to check out ArtsFairfax Artist Calls on an ongoing basis – new opportunities are added every week.
In addition to a dozen or so Artist Calls from throughout the region, ArtsFairfax is proud to host the following:
Fairfax250 RV Wrap
For illustrators, visual artists, and graphic designers, we are working with the Fairfax250 Commission to wrap a 37’-long RV that will travel to hundreds of events across Fairfax County. A signage company will handle the installation – all we need is the design. See your art on this rolling billboard all year long!

On June 20th, 2025, Woodbridge Rotary Club will be holding our 21st annual charity golf tournament. This tournament is in memory of two of our past Presidents and valued members of the community. Joe Devaney passed away March 22, 2005 and a few years ago, Bill O’Hop passed away barely a week after playing in this tournament in 2015. Both Joe and Bill were each other’s best friends and they both loved golf! Please help us pay tribute to our dear friends by participating in this tournament and helping us to support our local and international charities. If you are interested in golfing, sponsoring, donating a door prize and/or know someone who is, please contact us (Mark Worrilow [email protected] or 703-244-8702). Signing up is also possible using the QR code.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has