The Chicago Bar Association’s Barristers Big Band is hosting their 22nd Annual benefit on April 24 at 6:00 p.m. at the Union League Club. This year’s theme is “Simple Pleasures,” a celebration of delicious food, great music, fantastic company, and dancing! Proceeds from the event benefit the CBA musical ensembles, including the CBA Symphony and the CBA Chorus, which provide classical musical programs for members of the Bar and the broader Chicago community.

The benefit begins with a reception at 6 p.m. with the CBA’s Scales of Justice, a small jazz ensemble, providing lively music. There will be a silent auction featuring tickets for the Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me show, sailing excursions on Lake Michigan, wine from the band leader’s personal cellar, a week-long retreat in Michigan on 25 acres, performances by CBA musical groups, a vacation stay in the Eco Sky Dome in the Grand Canyon, and much more. Visit https://app.betterunite.com/BBBBB2025 to see all the auction items.

Later in the evening, the full 25-piece Barristers Big Band takes the stage while guests enjoy food and drinks. Shortly into the first set, professional dancers will teach a group dance lesson for everyone. All can show off their skills in a dance contest with giant trophies for winners.

“The Barristers Ball is the social event of the year for the legal community. We are thrilled to host this wonderful celebration of music for our community,” said John Vishneski, clarinetist, and Band Leader.

The Barristers Big Band was founded in 2000 by The Chicago Bar Association members who share a love of big band jazz and want to keep the music of the great big band era alive. Its members come from every walk of the Chicago legal community – big firm partners, solo practitioners, government lawyers, law students, and, for much of its history, even a sitting federal judge. With a full set of saxes, including a bari, a powerful brass section, a rhythm section that swings like mad, and numerous vocalists, the Big Barristers Band is ready to provide the best music of the swing era and beyond.

Tickets are $75 per person. To purchase tickets or for more information, go to www.chicagobar.org/BarristerBall. If you have any additional questions, contact Mark Cellini at mcellini@chicagobar.org.