First Friday: April Varner
Friday, December 5, 6 – 9pm
$35; National, Patron, and Contributor members and students $10; Supporters and Sustainers free
About the Event
Enjoy an evening of art, live music, cocktails, and light fare at our monthly First Friday mixer.
This month’s event features award-winning jazz vocalist and composer April Varner. The New York–based artist has immersed herself in the jazz tradition, performing and studying with legendary artists such as Tierney Sutton, Russell Malone, Sachal Vasandani, Jane Monheit, and Kurt Elling. Varner has performed to sold-out audiences at New York’s Birdland Jazz Club and Mezzrow Jazz Club. In 2024, she received an honorable mention in ASCAP’s Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer competition, and in 2023, she won the Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition.
Performances at 6:30pm & 7:45pm
First Friday at the Barnes includes access to the collection and Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets.
Seating is limited. Cocktails and light fare are available for purchase. This month, chef Ange Branca and the team from Kampar are soft launching Mod Spuds, a new fast-casual loaded jacket potato concept, and offering cocktails by Kampar Kongsi.
In the mood for something heartier? The Garden Restaurant is open for dinner during First Friday. Make a reservation between 6 and 8pm.
First Fridays at the Barnes
The Barnes is open late on the first Friday of every month, with live music, performances, and access to the collection. Join us for after-hours art and an exciting array of entertainment.
Go Further
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: Reimagined and Retold
A free day of art and family fun, with performances by the Philadelphia Youth Concert Band.
First Friday: Luke Carlos O’Reilly & Emily Braden
Celebrate the new year with soulful jazz from pianist Luke Carlos O’Reilly and singer Emily Braden.
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: Sweet Sound
Start off the new year with us! Enjoy musical performances, family-friendly art activities, and free access to the collection and Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets.