MARTINSVILLE, Va. (May 29, 2026) – John “Papa” Gros brought the sounds of New Orleans to Piedmont Arts on May 28.
Gros is a pianist, organist, and singer-songwriter whose career reflects the city itself — resilient, rhythmic, steeped in tradition, and always evolving. For more than 30 years, he has served as both a keeper and a translator of New Orleans music, blending funk, R&B, jazz, blues, rock, and Americana into a sound that is deeply rooted yet forward-looking.
This event was sponsored by Move to Martinsville and Music in the Box as part of their French Quarter Musical Mini Series, an intimate, three-show celebration of New Orleans-inspired music. Each performance takes place at a different partner venue, offering a unique setting while highlighting the rich arts scene of Martinsville and Henry County.
Other events in the series include Mike Doussan at 6:30 p.m. on June 4 at TheatreWorks and Alex McMurray at 6:30 p.m. on July 8 at Hamlet Vineyards.