The Storytelling & Arts Center of the Southeast will hold a Christmas Jazz Party this Saturday from 7 to 10 pm.

The event is part of the regular Second Saturday Jazz events and the Jimmy and Morris Morgan Jazz Series that continues at the center.

Executive Director Jan Schmidt said Saturday’s performance should get attendees in the mood for the holiday.

“Invite your family, friends, neighbors, volunteer buddies and colleagues,” Schmidt said. “Celebrate the reason for the season by sharing the joy of being together enjoying great music, dancing and singing. You just come and enjoy a great evening and we do the planning.

Expected to perform will be the Day and Knight Jazz Duo. The group consists of Michael Green Knight, a self-taught guitarist, and Arthur Smith, a saxophonist, both of whom played with bands including the Psychic Power Band, the Soul Tabulations, the Coachman and Four, and the Red Toppers. They were openers for Mothers Finest, Average White Band, and the Isley Brothers. They played back up for artists Teddy Pendergrass, Clarence Carter, and Johnny Tailor. They play regionally for many events.

“We are looking forward to having other musicians and vocalists join them on stage, playing and singing jazz and other music … responding to the spirit of the audience,” Smith said.

There will be a cover charge of $5, and beverages and refreshments will be available. Jazz musicians and vocalists from the audience are also encouraged to participate.

“The Jazz Jams are lots of fun,” Schmidt said. “I learned to do the electric slide from others who attend the jam regularly … that was quite an accomplishment for me.”

Parties of 8 or 10 people or more, are asked to call 910-277-3599 for reservations. For those who reserve tables for 8 or 10 guests, a complimentary dessert plate will be provided.