The Derrick Lee Group performing at Dona Arts Council

For the first in the Feed Your Spirit Series in 2023 and the first musical performance in the new Arts Council location at 230 South Water Street, the Doña Ana Arts Council is inviting the public to a night of jazz with the Derrick Lee Group. This follows a very popular performance by the group for Juneteenth at the previous Arts Council location in 2022.

Lee, who is considered one of the finest drummers in Las Cruces, will be joined by fellow band members, Michael Martinez on the trumpet and flugelhorn, Josh Carter on the tenor sax, Miguel Torres on the piano, and Arnold Schnitzer on bass. The quintet will be playing both jazz classics and Lee’s own, original compositions.

“Derrick is such a natural performer and educator,” said outgoing DAArts Executive Director Greg Smith. “His love of his art and his love of sharing his knowledge make getting to hear him with group a real treat.”.

Serving as one of fourteen Commissioners of the New Mexico Music Commission, Lee would seem to exemplify its mission of not only fostering appreciation of the value of music, but also protecting, promoting, and preserving the musical traditions of New Mexico.

The concert will be held in the Main Gallery of the Doña Ana Arts Council on February 17, from 5:00 to 8:00 in the evening. Doors will open at 4:30 with tickets available for $15 each or two for $25. They may be purchased online at https://boxoffice.daarts.org/e/4/the-derrick-lee-group, by phone, at the Arts Council, or at the door.

575-523-6403.  Or email:  director@daarts.org for more information.

The Arts Council supports and promotes the arts, both as part of a thriving creative economy and as a source of community pride. DAAC Board meetings occur on the fourth Thursday of most months. Please contact outgoing Executive Director Greg Smith or incoming Executive Director Araceli Solis at 575.523.6403 or director@daarts.org for more information.