DIVA Jazz Quintet Delivers Unforgettable Swing Into Spring Performance in Washington

On the evening of May 18, 2026, jazz lovers gathered in Washington, D.C. for an unforgettable celebration of rhythm and great musical artistry as the acclaimed DIVA Jazz Orchestra presented its “Swing Into Spring” concert. Hosted by the National Women's Foundation at the historic Whittemore House, the event combined the timeless spirit of big band jazz with the energy and sophistication that has made DIVA one of the world’s premier all-female jazz ensembles.

DIVA Quintet brings Swing into Spring at the National Women's Foundation in DC

The concert featured a select quintet from DIVA, showcasing dynamic interpretations of jazz standards and contemporary arrangements. DIVA has spent more than three decades redefining the role of women in jazz while honoring the traditions of swing and big band music.

From the first beats by percussionist Sherrie Maricle, the atmosphere inside the Whittemore House was electric. After enjoying delicious appetizers in the historic setting of the Whittemore House, the room quickly transformed into an intimate jazz club, alive with syncopated rhythms, expressive solos, and the pulse of swing music.

Under the musical leadership of renowned drummer Sherrie Maricle, DIVA has performed in venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center and Lincoln Center. The brilliant performers also included Amy Shook on bass, Janelle Gill, on piano, Jennifer Krupa on Trombone and Leigh Pilzer on the baritone saxophone. While the artists enjoy significant academic achievements, their performance was anything but academic and a testament to the authenticity of their great musicianship.

The “Swing Into Spring” program featured beloved jazz classics as Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean a Thing if You Ain’t Got That Swing; Peggy Lee’s and Bill Schluger’s “I Love Being Here With You;” and more contemporary works like “The Nearness of You,” by Norah Jones. The audience was at the edge of their seat as Sherrie Maricle’s drumbeat led the band in So Danzo Sambo, a Brazilian favorite composed by Joao Gilberto and Stan Getz.

In “Bernie’s Tune, Saxophonist Leigh Pilzer paid tribute to composer Bernie Miller, a Washington DC native who has fallen into obscurity. His song was made famous by the great Gerry Mulligan as well as by Ella Fitzgerald and groups led by Stan Getz, Buddy Rich and many others. The only reference that can be found about Bernie Miller is that he was a pianist with the Taft Hotel Orchestra in New York City. Perhaps the reason that he has been virtually forgotten except for “Bernie’s Tune” is that he died when he was only 25 year old .

Encouraged by the dynamic rhythms, the audience took to the dance floor, immersing themselves in the music. Whether through smooth saxophone melodies, vibrant trombone lines, rich bass sounds, rhythmic piano passages and the dynamic drums, the quintet demonstrated why DIVA remains a major force in modern jazz.

Beyond the music itself, the concert carried a deeper significance. The event celebrated women’s leadership and artistic excellence, reflecting the mission of both DIVA and the National Women’s Foundation. For decades, DIVA has challenged stereotypes in the jazz world, opening doors for future generations of female musicians while maintaining an uncompromising standard of musical excellence. The National Women’s Foundation’s is dedicated to the preservation of women’s history, and through their many programs, to introduce young people to music, literature and history. Their voter registration program has focused on high school graduates, leading to civic engagement by thousands of young people.

Watch for the next concert of the Whittemore Concert Series. On October 8^th, pianist Leah Claiborne will perform a recital for the piano featuring the music of Florence Price, the first African American woman to be recognized as a symphonic composer.