>> The keepers of traditional New Orleans jazz, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band (pictured), whose members range in age from 31 to 88, visit The Lincoln Theater tonight. Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. show are $30.
>> For those who prefer to look to the future instead of the past, fusion violinist Jean-Luc Ponty comes to The Birchmere to perform his unique blend of jazz, rock, and world music. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and will feature special guest Vinx on percussion. Tickets are $29.50 and are available through Ticketmaster.
>> Singer Harry Connick, Jr. brings his big band to Wolf Trap this Thursday for an 8 p.m. set. Tickets are $30-$52.
>> Hammond B-3 virtuoso Joey DeFrancesco begins a four night stand at Blues Alley this Thursday. Sets are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. and there is a $25 cover.
>> Also on Thursday, blues harmonica player John Nemeth comes to Twins Jazz. This up-and-comer has already gained positive notices around the country. First set around 8 p.m., call 202-234-0072
for cover info.
>> Thankfully, the Millennium Stage always provides a cheaper alternative to these rather pricey venues. This Thursday veteran drummer Bertell Knox, who played with guitar legend Charlie Byrd for years, leads a quartet for a free 6 p.m. performance.
