The Jazz Beat — August 2025

Wyatt Parks | August 3, 2025

Hello, all, and welcome back to this regular column here at Music City Review. Here, we will update you with the most can’t-miss jazz events happening in Music City, so you can be sure to catch all your favorites, as well as discover new ones along the way. Get out there and support your local musicians and keep Music City thriving! We are always looking to promote great music that may not get the attention it deserves. Have an event you think should be included in the next issue? Email me at: [email protected]

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This Month’s Highlights

Jerry Tachoir – Friday, August 1 – 7:30 PM ($35) (NJW)

A rare hometown performance by an internationally recognized jazz vibraphonist Jerry Tachoir, who has built his reputation through decades of touring, recording, and educating. The performance will feature two of his world-class ensembles, the Jerry Tachoir Group and Duo Tachoir, and compositions by award-winning pianist Marlene Tachoir. The lineup stars Tachoir on vibes, Marlene Tachoir on piano and voice, Roy Vogt on bass, and Rich Adams on drums.

Jason Marsalis Quintet: “The Music of My Father” (2 sets) – Saturday, August 2 – 5:30 PM ($20) & 8:00 PM ($25) (Rudy’s)

Hailing from the profoundly musical Marsalis family, percussionist Jason Marsalis now presents an evening dedicated to the music of his late father, Ellis Marsalis, Jr. In fact, the music presented in these back-to-back sets will feature exclusively previously unreleased music, making it all the more unique and special of an evening.

Big Band Dances at Centennial Park (multiple shows) (FREE)

Over the course of the summer, the Centennial Park Bandshell will be hosting over a dozen local swing and jazz ensembles for free community concerts, even featuring free dance lessons by Dynamic Ballroom and Performing Arts. August brings the last two of these concerts for the year. Lessons start at 7:00 PM, with the concert at 7:30. I have listed the ensembles below. The Moonlighters Big Band – Saturday, August 2 Music City Swing – Saturday, August 9

Ozomatli – Thursday, August 7 – 6:00 PM (Cannery Hall)

Known for their wide array of musical influences as well as their vocal activism, LA band Ozomatli blends salsa, jazz, funk, raggae, and many other styles for a sound that is quite unique. They have released seven studio albums since forming in 1995, and have received both Grammy and Latin Grammy awards. Their current tour celebrates 30 years together.

Bossanova, Bolero & Jazz w/ the Marcela Pinilla Jazz Quartet – Thursday, August 14 – 9:00 PM ($15) (Rudy’s)

Pinilla is a Colombian vocalist, songwriter, and percussionist who has traveled around the world with her music, including living in South East Asia for many years and a residency at the legendary Jazz at South Bridge in Singapore for two before coming to the States. Now she comes to Rudy’s to present the music of her native South America with her jazz quartet, featuring Isaac Eicher on mandolin, Marc Payne on piano, Giovanni Rodriguez on bass, and Josh Hunt on drums.

LEO SZN: A Live Music Event – Saturday, August 16 – 6:00 PM ($16) (Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge) ($16)

Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge will host a night of great female artists, including Ellisa Sun, a guitarist and songwriter who has been featured on the Rudy’s stage. Along with Sun, the evening will feature sets from Grace Day and Frances Praet, two country/folk/Americana artists.

Jazz on the Cumberland – Sunday, August 17 – 5:30 PM (Wasioto Park)

Again the exact details of the lineup for this concert have not been revealed, but the Jazz on the Cumberland series continues this month!

Hiatus Kaiyote – Thursday, August 21 – 8:00 PM (Brooklyn Bowl)

Australian jazz and funk band Hiatus Kaiyote comes to one of my personal favorite venues in Music City. Active for just under fifteen years together, the band has four studio albums to its name. They have received a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance, and their songs have been sampled by some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Anderson .Paak, Beyoncé, and Jay-Z.

Charlie Parker Birthday Tribute w/ Don Aliquo – Friday, August 29 – 8:00 PM ($22) (Rudy’s)

A regular with his trios and quartets, saxophonist Don Aliquo now leads a very special performance to celebrate the birthday of possibly the most influential sax players in jazz history, Charlie Parker, groundbreaking performer and pioneer of bebop music. His quartet will feature Bruce Dudley on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.

 

Analog at Hutton Hotel

The Analog is a cozy and intimate venue at the heart of Nashville’s Hutton Hotel. Here you will find music of all types, from jazz and blues to folk to pop.

Analog Soul – Sundays, August 3, 10 & 24 – 7:00 PM (Free GA / $20 reserved seating)

The Analog continues its Analog Soul series, featuring some of the city’s most promising emerging talent who are redefining soul music. The shows on the 3rd & 10th will feature Will Davenport and DJ Smoke, while the last show will feature Funk You, an eclectic Atlanta-based band that blends soul, rock, and funk. These shows are 21+.

Peter Levin & Friends: Hammond Organ Grooves Night – Saturday, August 9 – 8:00 PM ($15 GA / $25 reserved seating)

One of my favorite sounds in all of jazz music, the Hammond organ has a very special place in my heart, so it’s not wonder I include it here for you. Pianist Peter Levin guides you through the rich history of this instrument, through the styles of funk, blues, and jazz, bringing the beautiful vintage sound of the instrument to life. The set will also include musicians like Adam Meisterhans on guitar and Art Edmaiston on saxophone, and more.

NJW + Analog Present COW – Saturday, August 16 – 8:00 PM ($12 GA / $25 reserved seating)

In a collaboration with the Nashville Jazz Workshop, this concert at the Analog assembles some of Nashville’s finest jazz musicians for an evening of incredible music. Led by all-star pianist Jon Cowherd, perhaps best known for his work as a co-founder of the Grammy-nominated Brian Blade and the Fellowship Band, he will be joined on guitar by Ryan Scott, also a songwriter and producer known for his genre-spanning style, on drums by Keith Carlock, who has played drums for legends like Toto, Steely Dan, Sting, and more, and on bass by Mike Elizondo, a producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who has worked with big names like Eminem, Carrie Underwood, Fiona Apple, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and many more.  

Arrington Vineyards

With the warming weather Arrington Vineyards is bringing back their musical offerings in force. Every weekend you’ll be able to catch live jazz here, at both the Hillside Stage and on the Lawn. You can always find some of Nashville’s top jazz talent here, and this month is no exception. I’ve listed the acts appearing below.

Jazz on the Hillside

                Friday, August 1 – 4:30-8:30 – Miles Damaso Group
               Saturday, August 2 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
               Sunday, August 3 – 1:00 -5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
                Friday, August 8 – 4:30-8:30 PM – San Rafael Band
                Saturday, August 9 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
                Sunday, August 10 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
                Friday, August 15 – 4:30-8:30 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
                Saturday, August 16 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
                Sunday, August 17 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
                Friday, August 22 – 4:30-8:30 PM – Art Four Sale
                Saturday, August 23 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
                Sunday, August 24 – 1:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
                Friday, August 29 – 4:30-8:30 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
                Saturday, August 30 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
                Sunday, August 31 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet

Jazz on the Lawn

                Saturday, August 2 – 3:00-7:00 PM – San Rafael Band
                Sunday, August 3 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
                Saturday, August 9 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
                Sunday, August 10 – 1:00-5:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
                Saturday, August 16 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
                Sunday, August 17 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
                Saturday, August 23 – 3:00-7:00 PM – San Rafael Band
                Sunday, August 24 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
                Saturday, August 30 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
                Sunday, August 31 – 1:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band

City Winery Nashville

Nashville’s City Winery is a beautiful venue that consistently features top-talent acts that span genres from Jazz to Americana to Hip Hop. The below performances showcase a mix of several genres, but will certainly be of interest to any jazz audience. Enjoy these concerts accompanied by a stellar selection of wine and delicious bites.

Main Stage

Main Stage

Motown Sing-Along Brunch – Saturday, August 16 – 12:00 PM ($35-45)

It’s not jazz, but I figured most jazz listeners also love Motown, so I thought I’d include this. This special brunch event will feature all the Motown hits, from artists like Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and many more.

Alex Bugnon – Sunday, August 17 – 7:30 PM ($25-40)

Swiss pianist Alex Bugnon hails from Montreux, the site of maybe the most famous Jazz Festival in the world. This annual event, along with the musical traditions of his family, led him to pursue his own musical career, starting first at a Paris conservatory before moving to Berklee in Boston. The wide array of musical styles in the States continued to shape him musically, into the dynamic and eclectic pianist he is today.

The Nashville Jazz Workshop

Moving on to Music City’s other great jazz venue, the Jazz Cave at the NJW is a venue with world-class acoustics, which consistently ranks in Downbeat Magazine’s list of Great Jazz Venues in the world. Tickets can be purchased through the Workshop website.

Jazz Cave

Jerry Tachoir – detailed above

From Bebop to Broadway – Saturday, August 9 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Mainstay session trombonist Bob McChesney and celebrated vocalist, violinist, composer, arranger and educator Calabria Foti come together to bring a night of the most classic tunes in jazz, ranging the stylistic gamut from the fast, driving melodies of bebop to the sweet melodies of Broadway.

Midtown Jazz Quartet: Album Release Show – Friday, August 15 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Made up of experienced professional musicians each in his own right, the members of Midtown Jazz Quartet celebrate the release of their new album, Step Lightly. The Quartet is made up of Michael Morton on flute, Steve King on piano, Gus Duffy on drums, and Gary J. Smith on bass. These musicians have studied, performed, and recorded with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Whitney Houston, the Los Angeles Opera, Keith Urban, Kelly Clarkson, and many others.

Steve Goold: “You Are What You Eat” Clinic on Brian Blade – Sunday, August 17 – 2:00 PM (FREE)

Drummer and educator Steve Goold has created a series of immersive listening clinics, dubbed “You Are What You Eat,” in which he closely analyzes the playing of his favorite drummers. In this iteration of the clinic, Goold will walk participants through the playing of Brian Blade, and discuss what makes his unique and recognizable style so hard to imitate. Event is free with a $10 suggested donation.

Pat Coil Trio Presents “On Standard Time” – Friday, August 22 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Prolific Nashville pianist Pat Coil brings his trio back to the Cave for a night of incredible music. This trio will feature Craig Akin on bass and Danny Gottlieb on drums, both of whom are celebrated musicians in their own right.

Lori Mechem Presents “Too Darn Hot”: Songs of Summer – Saturday, August 23 – 7:30 PM ($35)

A theme many of us will relate to, given the recent weather, pianist Lori Mechem leads her trio presenting songs of summer. Mechem and her husband Roger Spencer have been mainstays in Nashville since 1988, founding the Nashville Jazz Workshop together. Their trio also features Chris Brown on drums. This concert is the next installment in their 2025 residency celebrating 30 years playing together.

Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra – Sunday, August 24 – 7:30 PM ($40)

A regular appearance in the Cave, the Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra returns this month, as always featuring some of Nashville’s finest jazz musicians. Middagh is Director of Jazz Studies at Vanderbilt, and is a prolific composer, using his ensemble as a vehicle for this original music.

Jazz on Buchanan: Jonathan Smith – Thursday, August 28 – 5:30 PM (FREE)

The latest in the NJW’s free Jazz on Buchanan concert series features Jonathan Smith, a Hammond Organ artist and currently the keyboardist for the Brothers Osborne. Smith has been playing the piano since the young age of ten, and has since enjoyed an accomplished career, having performed with many bands and artists along the way, including the Wilson Brothers Band, Paul S. Morton, Jonathan Dunn, and many more. His band features Adam McPhail on guitar, Jaraven Moe Hill on bass, Tyrus Sass on keys/organ, and Tajae Mosley on drums.

Community Events

NJW + Analog Present COW – detailed above

 

Rudy’s Jazz Room

And now we move on to Nashville’s premier jazz club, with its cozy, intimate setting. I’ll start with some of the unique highlights for this month, then follow up with the great regular acts performing. Please note that some shows are one dollar cheaper if you purchase advance tickets. I have listed the door price for all shows.

Rudy’s Highlights

Below are the performances for this month that I’ve picked out as the real can’t-miss shows, some featuring touring artists from out of state, others featuring local artists giving specialized, unique performances. With the new year there are many new faces and new combinations appearing at Rudy’s this month, so now is the perfect time to catch a great new show!

Andrew Carney and the Essentials – Friday, August 1 – 5:30 PM ($14)

Accomplished trumpeter and flugelhornist Andrew Carney brings his band the Essentials to the Rudy’s stage. Playing professionally since the age of fifteen, Carney has remained an in-demand musician over many years, having performed or toured with artists like Pink, Aretha Franklin, Andrea Bocelli, Chaka Khan, and many others. He is also an accomplished composer, songwriter, arranger, and educator.

Daniel Kuk (2 shows) – Friday, August 1 – 11:00 PM ($10) & Wednesday, August 13 – 6:00 PM ($14)

Daniel Kuk is a young up-and-coming pianist who, as you can tell from other lineups listed in this newsletter, is already making waves in the scene and proving himself in-demand. He has lived in Nashville most of his life, and started studying music at a very early age. His major influences include Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, and Bud Powell. The first of these shows will be in trio format, with Jim Ferguson on bass and Miles Damaso on drums. The second will be in quartet format, with Bailey Johnstone on bass, Marlon Patton on drums, and Dan Hitchcock on saxophone.

Jason Marsalis Quintet: “The Music of My Father” – detailed above

Marc Payne Quartet (2 shows) – Saturday, August 2 & Friday, August 22 – 11:00 PM ($10)

One of Nashville’s most talented up-and-coming pianists Marc Payne will lead his trio. Payne has been praised for his diversity and wide knowledge of many jazz styles. He has spent his life in Nashville soaking up many different sounds and styles, and this diversity comes through in his masterful playing.

Desmond Ng Quintet – Sunday, August 3 – 6:00 PM ($15)

One of Music City’s finest jazz trombonists, Desmond Ng leads a quintet with some of Nashville’s top jazz talent. Since relocation to Nashville from Phoenix, Arizona, Ng has recorded and performed with notable artists like Dan & Shay, Judah and the Lion, the Nashville Symphony, Nashville Jazz Orchestra, and may more. He is also a prolific composer.

Joshua Constantine Quartet (2 shows) – Monday, August 4 – 6:00 PM ($12) & Friday, August 29 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Saxophonist Constantine is a former member of Grammy-nominated UNT One O’Clock Lab Band, and student of world-renowned saxophonist Brad Leali. Currently an active performer and educator in Nashville, Constantine tends to pay homage to the classic giants of jazz, honoring composers and performers like John Coltrane, Thelonius Monk, Wayne Shorter, and more. The first of these shows will feature Sam Smith (bass), Michael Green (drums), and Dan La Maestra (piano), while the second will features Smith with Danny McGonegle (drums), and Daniel Mandrychenko (guitar).

Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursday, August 7 – 9:00 PM ($14)

Continuing its running “SINdustry night” series on the first Thursday of the month, this New Orleans-style brass band returns to Rudy’s to showcase the club’s Cajun roots. Led by New Orleans native Chris Walters on piano, this band offers as authentic a brass band experience you can find without traveling to the French Quarter. Service industry workers with some form of proof of their employment will receive half off the door price and half price draft beer.

Guitar & B3 Night ft. Bob Sabellico & Kyle Lehning – Friday, August 8 – 5:30 PM ($14)

Veteran guitarist Bob Sabellico was called to replace the iconic Randy Bachman in the Guess Who at the young age of 16. Since then, he has only kept growing as a musician, and now he is joined by three-time Grammy-winning keyboardist Kyle Lehning on B3 organ for a set of the vintage sounds of this classic format. The two will be joined by acclaimed drummer Wes Little.

Bob Harsen Quartet – Friday, August 8 – 8:00 PM ($20)

Drummer Bob Harsen leads a quartet featuring pianist Jody Nardone, legendary bassist Jeff Berlin, and guitarist Jonathan Rogerson.

Chris Mondak Quartet – Friday, August 8 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Nashville-based composer and bassist Chris Mondak brings his quartet back to Rudy’s. Mondak is a graduate of the New England Conservatory and has studied with jazz legends like Cecil McBee, Dave Holland, and Bob Moses. He is known for his energetic hard-bop style compositions and performances.

Adam Larson Quartet (2 sets) – Saturday, August 9 – 5:30 PM ($18) & 8:00 PM ($23)

Saxophonist and composer Adam Larson weaves a number of genres, ranging from Jazz to R&B to Classical, into his playing and compositions, now numbering over two hundred. His compositional originality has garnered him praise in Downbeat Magazine and the New York Times. This month he offers back-to-back sets at Rudy’s.

Steve Pardo Quartet – Saturday, August 9 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Acclaimed video game composer Steve Pardo brings his quartet to the Rudy’s stage. Pardo’s experience with game music offers his jazz playing a rather unique tint, and this performance will feature music from his latest album/game release, DOS.

Ted Ludwig Quartet – Sunday, August 10 – 6:00 PM ($16)

Acclaimed seven-string jazz guitarist Ted Ludwig returns to Rudy’s, this time leading a quartet featuring Jon Cowherd on piano, Rob Linton on bass, and James Sexton on drums. Ludwig has been widely praised for his melodic and virtuosic playing.

Bossanova, Bolero & Jazz w/ the Marcela Pinilla Jazz Quartet – detailed above

Rory and Nalani Jazz Trio – Saturday, August 16 – 5:30 PM ($16) Nashville guitar and multi-instrument virtuoso Rory Hoffman (piano, guitar, saxophone and vocals) teams with another multi-talented performer Nalani (bass and vocals) for a wonderful jazz trio set. Both performers have had extensive performing careers and won numerous awards. Their combination is sure to be a treat.

Alec Newnam Trio – Saturday, August 16 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Bassist Alec Newnam has quickly become a staple of the Nashville music scene. Born to musician parents who worked with some of the legends, including Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles, music has been in Newnam’s blood since he was born.

Nate Spratford Trio – Monday, August 18 – 6:00 PM ($12)

Chicago native Nate Spratford is a saxophonist and composer who relocated to Nashville just two years ago and has already made quite the name for himself in Nashville’s jazz community. He has studied and performed with some of the industry’s best, including Jeff Coffin, Rod McGaha, Ari Hoenig, and many more. His trio features Leland Nelson on bass and Danny McGonegle on drums.

Beatle Jazz: Beatles Songs Reimagined – Thursday, August 21 – 9:00 PM ($15)

Some of Nashville’s top jazz musicians present an evening of jazz arrangements of classic Beatles tunes, written by group leader drummer Miles Damaso. The quartet will also feature Pat Coil on piano, Don Aliquo on saxophone, and Brian Allen on bass.

Ladies of Jazz – Friday, August 22 – 5:30 PM ($18)

Vocalist Wendy Burns’s popular series Ladies of Jazz returns, this time featuring vocalist Jaimee Paul. Signed to Green Hill Music as the label’s first female vocalist, Paul’s debut record At Last reached #1 on the iTunes Jazz charts.

Jamey Simmons Sextet – Saturday, August 23 – 5:30 PM ($20)

Accomplished trumpeter and educator Jamey Simmons is also a well-known composer and arranger, having had his pieces performed by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo Symphony Pops, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, and more. This sextet uses the classic sound of the three-horn jazz combos, and will feature some of Simmons’ own music. His group features Don Aliquo (sax), Desmond Ng (trombone), Pat Coil (piano), Jack Aylor (bass), and Danny Gottlieb (drums).

Eli Ibrahim Quartet – Saturday, August 23 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Quickly becoming a regular on the Rudy’s stage, pianist Eli Ibrahim leads his quartet for an evening of blues and jazz music.

Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sunday, August 24 – 6:00 PM ($12)

One of Nashville’s most exciting jazz bassists, Jimmy Sullivan, takes the early Saturday set for a selection of hard-swinging jazz. If you’re a frequenter of Rudy’s, you’ll probably recognize Sullivan from his bi-monthly residency here on Sundays. Over his illustrious career he has performed with top jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and many more.

Noah Pierre – Friday, August 29 – 5:30 PM ($15)

Pierre is an eclectic guitarist from Maryland who has been playing the instrument since the age of three. From that early age he was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, from Robert Johnson and Jimi Hendrix to Wes Montgomery and Mobb Deep, among others, as well as the musical stylings of his Haitian parents’ homeland.

Charlie Parker Birthday Tribute w/ Don Aliquo – detailed above

Ari and Cecil Alexander Quartet – Saturday, August 30 – 8:00 PM ($23) Cecil, guitarist, composer, and arranger, and Ari, vocalist and singer-songwriter, Alexander perform a selection of originals, classics and Great American Songbook tunes, all arranged and reimagined specifically for their quartet. Cecil Alexander is a highly accomplished guitarist, having won a number of competitions and awards. Ari Alexander is a Danish-American musician hailing from a vibrant musical family.

Rudy’s Regulars

Pat Coil

All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns with multiple shows this month, in trio, quartet, and quintet format. As you all probably know by now, Coil is a highly in-demand pianist in Nashville and just about everywhere else, having toured extensively both nationally and internationally.
                Pat Coil Quintet (ft. guitarist Steve Kovalcheck) – Friday, August 1 – 8:00 PM ($22)
                Pat Coil Trio – Wednesday, August 6 – 6:00 PM ($14)
                Pat Coil Quartet (w/ Don Aliquo, Jim Ferguson, Ryan Brasley) – Saturday, August 30 – 5:30 PM ($15)

Re-Evolution – Mondays, August 11 & 25 – 6:00 PM ($12)

This five-piece band is heavily influenced by classic jazz cutting-edge artists like Thelonius Monk, Wes Montgomery, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, and more. The band consists of Brian Cornish on saxophone, Regi Wooten on bass, Daryl Johnson on drums, Adam Charney on guitar and Alex Murphy on piano.

Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Friday, August 15 – 5:30 PM ($14)

Guitarist and vocalist Cliff Richmond’s band always features some of Nashville’s top talent, and presents a great blend of soulful, swinging, and funky jazz.

Don Aliquo Quintet (2 shows) – Friday, August 15 & Saturday, August 16 – 8:00 PM ($24)

One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances twice this month, in back-to-back Friday/Saturday shows with his quintet. This group features Michael Jefry Stevens on piano, Mark Feldman on violin, Jack Aylor on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.

Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, August 15 & Saturday, August 30 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Playing a mix of Wayne Shorter tunes and originals, Geoff Pfeifer brings gritty, edgy, genuine NYC-style jazz to Rudy’s stage with his Quartet.

Sarah Jane Nelson – Sunday, August 17 – 6:00 PM ($20)

Vocalist Sarah Jane Nelson combines influences from country, jazz, blues, and musical theater for a unique voice that has earned her descriptions as a “knock-‘em dead singer,” “sultry jazz goddess,” and “a first rate singer”.

Bizz Bigsby – Wednesday, August 20 – 6:00 PM ($16)

Nashville native Bizz Bigsby shares his very personal music which tells the story of his life, influenced by everyone from Bill Withers to George Jones to James Taylor.

Stephanie Adlington – Friday, August 22 – 8:00 PM ($23)

Another frequent visitor to the Rudy’s stage, award-winning vocalist, songwriter and vocal coach Stephanie Adlington is known as the “Siren of the South,” with an “unrivaled” take on the Great American Songbook.

Jody Nardone Trio – Saturday, August 23 – 8:00 PM ($22)

Prominent Nashville pianist Jody Nardone brings his trio to Rudy’s for a classic jazz set. With a growing national reputation, Nardone seamlessly shifts from the “whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner.” (Michael McCall, Nashville Scene)

Dana Robbins Quintet – Wednesday, August 27 – 6:00 PM ($12)

GRAMMY-winning saxophonist Dana Robbins pays tribute to the Soul Jazz sound of the late 60’s and early 70’s, celebrating artists such as Les McCann, Eddie Harris, Jimmy Smith, and more. Robbins has either recorded or performed with many artists, including Keb’ Mo’, Aretha Franklin, Taj Mahal, Keith Urban, and more. Her band features David Santos (bass), Wes Little (drums), Phil Hughley (guitar), and Darius Mines (piano/B3 organ).

Rebecca Carlson – Thursday, August 28 – 9:00 PM ($14)

Jazz and blues vocalist Rebecca Carlson has made a name for herself across the country, taking stints based in New York City, Tucson, Los Angeles, and now Nashville. An extensive touring and recording career has made her quite an in-demand performer.

Bruce Dudley Trio – Sunday, August 31 – 6:00 PM ($15)

Bruce Dudley is an accomplished and acclaimed jazz pianist who is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz for over forty years with many recording credits to his name, both as sideman and bandleader. This time his trio will feature Jim Ferguson on bass and Marc Widenhofer on drums.

Regi Wooten & Friends – Every Wednesday – 9:00 PM ($15)

Coming from a distinctly talented musical family, Regi Wooten is one of the most innovative and dynamic musicians on the scene today, pushing the boundaries of the traditional genres. Equally at home playing Hendrix as Wes Montgomery, Wooten assembles a group of some of Nashville’s best musicians to offer a night steeped in funk, jazz, soul, blues and rock.

Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos – Every Monday – 9:00 PM ($15)

A favorite on the Nashville Latin and jazz scene, multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez presents an electric night of salsa, along with his band consisting of Rodriguez (timbales/vocals), Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (congo/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), and Isoel Villarrubia (bass).

Hot Club Gypsy Jazz – Every Thursday – 6:00 PM ($12)

Every Thursday night, Rudy’s honors its New Orleans and French roots by celebrating the vibrant music of Gypsy Jazz. These nights feature a variety of small groups either led or curated by New Orleans native Brook Sutton, all performing music in the style of the great Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli. The bar will feature French Quarter-inspired cocktails as well as gumbo and beignets. Come out for as authentic a night as you can get without a trip to the French Quarter.

Rudy’s Jazz Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM ($10)

I couldn’t make a list of Rudy’s events without including a shout-out for the regular weekly Jazz Jam the club hosts every Sunday night. Whether you are a jazz musician and you want to jam with your fellow artists, or you just want to come and enjoy what the local talent has to offer, the Jazz Jam is a great way to end your weekend.  

The Underdog Nashville

Guthrie Trapp Trio – Every Monday – 8:00 PM ($10)

One of Nashville’s preeminent guitar talents will perform several times at the Underdog. More blues and country than jazz, Trapp’s intricate and highly technical guitar playing will surely interest those who love the technicality of jazz music. His trio features Jordan Perlson on drums and Tim Marks on bass.

Corey Congilio – Saturday, August 9 – 9:00 PM ($10)

Guitarist and music educator extraordinaire Corey Congilio once again returns to the Underdog. I personally have always admired his playing, and this should be a great show!

Cam Gallagher & the Tasty Soul – Sunday, August 24 – 7:00 PM ($12)

Led by saxophonist Gallagher and comprised of young and energetic musicians, this is one of Nashville’s premier funk bands. Great songwriting along with killer performance chops make these shows a ton of fun.

Regular Nashville Hangs

Bohemia After Dark: Live Jazz Band with Andrew Golden – Every Monday – 8:00 PM (Old Glory)

Tuesday Bluesday w/ Shantelle & The Juke Joint Band – Every Tuesday – 6:30 PM (Rawhides)

Weekly blues night with a different special guest each week.

Dinner & A Show – Live Jazz Band – Every Friday – 7:00 PM (Flamingo Cocktail Club)

Living Room Sessions – Every Friday & Saturday – 8:00 PM (W Nashville Hotel)

Regular weekly showcase featuring local indie, jazz, funk, and R&B bands.

Eastside Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM (Inglewood Lounge)

This is not a traditional jazz jam playing standards, but rather an improv jam, but any jazz player or listener will still be interested!

Live Jazz at Wilburn St. Tavern – Tuesday Evenings

Nightly Jazz at Skull’s Rainbow Room

Nightly Jazz at Sinatra Bar & Lounge

Live Jazz at Skye Lounge – Every Friday & Saturday – 7:30 PM

NJW at Char Steakhouse – Evenings and Sunday Brunch

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