I first encountered Byron Stripling at a speaking engagement about a year ago. A gifted singer, actor and trumpeter, Stripling’s presentation was captivating. The musician paced the aisles as he detailed the lessons learned from his inspiration, legendary jazz trumpeter Louis Armstrong. His dynamic lecture was peppered with flawless imitations of “Satchmo” and his singing and trumpet playing transformed an ordinary presentation into an engaging performance. It was obvious from Stripling’s study of his idol that he had also turned into a consummate entertainer and renaissance man. So when the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra decided to celebrate Mardi Gras, it was fitting that the living embodiment of New Orleans jazz’s favorite son should join them on Kleinhans’ stage. Stripling’s two-day concert with the BPO will feature authentic New Orleans jazz and include performances of such classics as “What a Wonderful World,” “Hello Dolly” and “West End Blues.” Educated at Rochester’s Eastman School of Music, and the Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan, Stripling’s successful career has included a starring turn in the musical “Satchmo,” numerous appearances on television and regular performances with the Boston Pops and New York Pops. His talent is sure to bring the spirit of Mardi Gras to Western New York.

Friday-Saturday, February 24-25 at 8pm. Kleinhans Music Hall, One Symphony Circle.

(885-5000) $15-$67