The Smithsonian kicks off its observance of Jazz Appreciation Month at the National Museum of American History today.  To celebrate, the museum will feature a bevy of events recognizing the rich history and culture of jazz, including programs in tribute to the work of American jazz icon Billy Strayhorn as the world celebrates his centennial birth year.

On April 11th, The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, led by artistic director Charlie Young, will perform Lush Life: Billy Strayhorn’s Centennial, a tribute performance to be held in the museum’s Baird Auditorium.  The museum is also celebrating Strayhorn’s work with a solo jazz piano series, which will feature up-and-coming jazz pianists based in the D.C. area.

Finally, the official 2015 Jazz Appreciation Month poster features an original painting of Strayhorn by artist Keith Henry, below.

The Smithsonian joins dozens of other entities around the globe paying tribute to Strayhorn this Jazz Appreciation Month and all year long.