Sam Prather and Groove Orchestra

“Samuel Prather is a human jukebox — a man of 1,000 riffs, grooves and tunes. Put in a request and his ensemble, the Groove Orchestra, will lay into seemingly any tune with mellifluous horn melodies, driving funk guitar and pulsating rhythms.” Jackson Sinnenberg - CapitolBop

From Duke Ellington to Stevie Wonder and Snarky Puppy, Samuel Prather and his Groove Orchestra always present a fresh and original take on big sound Jazz fused with Funk, Gospel, Brazilian, Latin, Neo-Soul, and R&B. As a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, educator, producer, composer and arranger, Samuel Prather has long been one of the most popular artists in the DMV (DC-MD-VA) area for years, working with talents as diverse as Shania Twain, Raul Midon, Fred Yonnet, Hugh Masekela, Cyrus Chestnut, Pharoh Saunders, and Bennie Maupin. He’s graced the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage and Blues Alley many times to packed audiences. Sam is one of Marianne & Howard’s favorite local artists, and they can’t wait to present him and his band to their loyal (and growing) audience.

Samuel Prather headlines on piano and percussion, and his band includes popular local artists as well as up-and-coming virtuosos, including Ephraim Dorsey on saxophone, Noah Pierre on guitar, Elliot Seppa on bass, Clarence Ward III on trumpet and Charles Wilson drums. Acclaimed Howard University favorite, Taylor Young will be featured on vocals. Your ticket also includes a delightful post-show hangout with the musicians where you can indulge in homemade desserts, fresh fruit, and savory charcuterie. Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and take advantage of our cash bar offering discounted wine, beer, and cocktails.