Jazz enthusiasts are in for a festive treat as renowned guitarist Peter White returns to Reading, Pennsylvania, for his annual holiday concert, “A Peter White Christmas.” The event, featuring Mindi Abair and Vincent Ingala, will take place at the Miller Center for the Arts on December 2, 2023, at 19:30. This concert is part of the beloved Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, presented by Berks Arts.
White has become a staple of the holiday season in Reading, expressing his excitement for the upcoming concert. “Reading has been a major part of the annual holiday tour,” he stated. “I always look forward to coming to Reading and sharing the spirit of Christmas through music with our many Berks Jazz Fest fans.” His exceptional skills as an acoustic guitarist have earned him worldwide recognition.
A Musical Journey Through Christmas Memories
Reflecting on his childhood, White shared, “My earliest memories of Christmas were probably not much different from many other people. Snowflakes, tinsel, Santa Claus, reindeer, and the opening of presents surrounded by family.” He fondly recalls learning Christmas music on his first instrument, the recorder, thanks to his father. White added, “I hope this tour will be an opportunity for many smooth jazz fans to enjoy their favorite Christmas songs in a family setting.”
Mindi Abair, an acclaimed saxophonist, will join White on stage, bringing her dynamic energy to the event. She shared her own cherished Christmas memories, saying, “Growing up, my family would get together for Christmas every year. My grandmother would cook oyster stuffing and rhubarb pie, and we’d all play and sing together. I still make a rhubarb pie every year in her honor.” Abair’s musical upbringing has deeply influenced her career, as she recalls, “My grandmother gave me great advice early on, ‘If you play the piano you can be the life of any party!’”
Engaging Performances Await
Vincent Ingala, a talented multi-instrumentalist primarily known for his tenor saxophone, will also perform at the concert. His engaging performances consistently delight contemporary jazz audiences. Reflecting on his childhood, Ingala reminisced, “I can vividly remember not being able to fall asleep waiting for Santa Claus to arrive on Christmas Eve. Somehow, he always managed to get the job done while I was sleeping.”
Ingala’s enthusiasm for the holiday season adds to the concert’s festive atmosphere. “I remember feeling extra special that Santa would place all of the gifts around the fireplace like a display,” he recalled. “I would sneak downstairs multiple times with my flashlight to get a sneak peek before the sun would rise on Christmas morning.”
Tickets for “A Peter White Christmas” are available now. For further details and to purchase tickets, visit www.berksarts.org/holiday-kickoff. This concert promises to be a memorable evening filled with holiday spirit and exceptional music, making it a perfect way to celebrate the season.
