The Jazz Beat — September 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
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]
Here are the performances this month that I have picked out as really special, ones you won’t be able to catch any day of the week. They span across Nashville’s many great jazz venues and offer something of interest for everyone.
The Music of David Sanborn – Monday, September 1 – 7:30 PM ($30-50) (City Winery)
Veterans of legendary saxophonist David Sanborn’s world tours and recording sessions come together to honor the legacy of this iconic artist, who passed away last year. Led by saxophonist Alex Han, this group will reunite keyboardist and musical director Ricky Peterson, guitarist Nicky Moroch, and drummer Gene Lake, paying tribute to Sanborn’s contributions to music, which earned him six Grammy awards and eight gold albums.
Kenny G – Monday, September 8 – 7:30 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
A man who practically needs no introduction, I don’t think I really need to detail who Kenny G is, so suffice it to say that the smooth jazz legend is bringing his iconic sound to the Ryman Auditorium this month.
An Evening with Rick Beato – Thursday, September 11 – 7:30 PM (Ingram Hall)
YouTube sensation and lifetime devotee to music Rick Beato comes to Vanderbilt. Beato is known as one of the biggest names on YouTube in the music space, having generated over 1.5 billion views on his videos, frequently featuring commentary and interviews with some of the biggest names in music, including Pat Metheny, Billy Strings, Joe Perry, Rick Rubin, and many, many more. Known for his strong and vocal opinions and critiques of music and the industry as a whole, this is sure to be an interesting and thought-provoking event!
Alex Murphy Trio ft. Gabrielle Cavassa – Friday, September 12 – 5:30 PM ($16) (Rudy’s)
Quickly becoming a mainstay pianist in Nashville, Alex Murphy brings his trio back to Rudy’s for two sets, but this time with special guest Gabrielle Cavassa, a vocalist originally from Escondido, California. In 2021, Cavassa won the prestigious International Sarah Vaughan Jazz Vocal Competition, after which she was discovered by Joshua Redman’s manager. She went on to collaborate on one of Redman’s releases, and subsequently toured extensively with Redman’s group throughout the US, Europe, and Asia. Murphy’s trio will also feature Lex Warshawsky on bass and Marlon Patton on drums.
Kenosha Kid – Monday, September 15 – 8:00 PM (DRKMTTR)
Led by guitarist Dan Nettles, Athens, Georgia-based band Kenosha Kid’s all-instrumental music has deep roots in jazz music, but also incorporates Nettles’ insatiable musical appetite to include influences from musicians like Willie Nelson to Jimi Hendrix and more.
Annie Sellick & Pat Bergeson – Wednesday, September 17 – 7:30 PM (Joelton Hardware, Feed and Farmacy) ($18)
In one of the few ticketed events over at Joelton Hardware, vocalist Annie Sellic and guitarist Pat Bergeson come together for an evening of live jazz and cabaret music. This venue is a bit out of the way for most Nashville residents, but this duo (and the food) is sure to be worth the drive.
Spyro Gyra – Thursday, September 18 – 8:00 PM ($45-68) (City Winery)
Legendary jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra celebrated their 50th anniversary last year with a host of tour dates around the country and in Europe, including a stop here in Music City. Now that celebration has evolved and keeps moving forward into 2025. Formed in Buffalo, NY in 1974, the band has created an enduring legacy as an incredible live band, having logged more than 10,000 shows on six continents.
Ian Coury & Isaac Eicher: Vivendo e Aprendendo Tour – Saturday, September 20 – 7:30 PM ($35) (NJW)
Two mandolin masters, one American and one Brazilian, join forces on a new album featuring three original compositions from each, as well as creative arrangements of classic tunes like “All the Things You Are” and “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” The duo’s innovative and unique sound is already turning heads in the acoustic jazz world, and bringing to the fore the beauty of the mandolin as an instrument.
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue – Thursday, September 25 – 7:00 PM (The Caverns)
Superstar NOLA trombonist and bandleader Trombone Shorty comes to the iconic Ryman stage with his band. Born Troy Andrews, he has been entrenched in music practically since he was born, performing with the legendary Bo Diddley at Jazz Fest at the age of four, leading his own brass band at six, and the music has never stopped since. If you love classic New Orleans jazz sounds, this show is for you.
Supernova w/ Bill Evans & Jeff Coffin – Friday, September 26 – 8:00 PM (Franklin Theatre)
Supernova is a band formed by two of the most powerhouse sax players on the scene today, Bill Evans and Jeff Coffin. Evans cut his teeth in the crucible of Miles Davis’ band, giving him an unshakable foundation in jazz music, and his collaborations have only grown since then, reaching greats like Herbie Hancock, Willie Nelson, Peter Frampton, and more. Coffin, on the other hand, is an incredibly well-known face in the Nashville jazz scene. As passionate about education and he is performance, Coffin mentors students as an instructor at Vanderbilt University, and performs with a wide range of groups in town. His performances and recordings have garnered him three Grammy awards, and he is known for his fiery improvisations and seamless weaving of jazz, funk, and world music into a style all his own. This band will also feature three other mainstay Nashville musicians, Keith Carlock on drums, Buddy Strong on keys, and Jon Estes on bass.
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 – Every Sunday – 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 last three shows will as usual feature Will Davenport and DJ Smoke, while the first show will feature the Jonathan Scales Fourchestra, a power trio of electric bass, drums, and steel pans who have appeared on the Rudy’s stage a number of times. These shows are 21+.
Sarah Aili Presents “A Night with Ella” – Thursday, September 25 – 8:00 PM ($10 GA / $25)
Returning to the Analog is Sarah Aili, a multi-form artist known for her work in music, theater, and storytelling. She can be found performing on stages all across Music City, and now she brings to the Analog a night of music honoring one of the greatest jazz vocalists, Ella Fitzgerald.
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
Monday, September 1 (Labor Day) – 12:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Friday, September 5 – 4:30-8:30 – San Rafael Band
Saturday, September 6 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, September 7 – 1:00 -5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
Friday, September 12 – 4:30-8:30 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Saturday, September 13 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Sunday, September 14 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
Friday, September 19 – 4:30-8:30 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, September 20 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Sunday, September 21 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Friday, September 26 – 4:30-8:30 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Saturday, September 27 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, September 28 – 1:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Jazz on the Lawn
Saturday, September 6 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Sunday, September 7 – 1:00-5:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, September 13 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, September 14 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Saturday, September 20 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, September 21 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, September 27 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, September 28 – 1:00-5:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
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
The Music of David Sanborn – detailed above
Stella Cole – Sunday, September 14 – 7:30 PM ($28-50)
Viral sensation Stella Cole is a true product of our era, finding a devoted online following of fans on social media. Her viral singing videos have garnered her millions of views, and caught the attention of superstars like David Foster, James Taylor, Meghan Trainor, and more. Now having performed in iconic venues like Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall, and the Kennedy Center, Cole’s audience now waits for her anticipated debut album, a collection of songs produced by Matt Pierson.
Leo Kottke – Tuesday, September 16 – 7:30 PM ($30-55)
Guitar master Leo Kottke will grace the Main Stage, showing off his trademark fingerpicking style that draws on a wide variety of influences, from blues to jazz to folk. After a long and successful career requiring the conquering of many personal hardships, Kottke is widely recognized as master of his instrument.
Spyro Gyra – detailed above
Peter White – Sunday, September 21 – 7:30 PM ($35-55)
One of the rare acoustic guitarists on the jazz scene, Peter White has made a name for himself as a versatile and prolific performer. Combining elements of jazz, pop, and classical guitar, White creates a sound that is eclectic and unique, setting himself apart from many other artists and musicians today. With a career already spanning nearly four decades, White shows no signs of slowing down, citing his love for live performances which keep the experience new and fresh every time.
Walter Trout – Monday, September 22 – 7:30 PM ($30-45)
Longtime blues and rock artist Walter Trout has had a career spanning a half-century, saying that his enduring hope and resilience have always lit the way for his musical path. His latest album, Broken, released last year, examines our troubled times and fractured society, trying to forge that path of hope despite the bitter realities of modern life.
Mindi Abair – Tuesday, September 23 – 7:30 PM ($25-55)
Throughout her more than two-decade career, saxophonist and vocalist Mindi Abair has garnered two Grammy nominations and recorded with some of the biggest names in music, spanning many genres. She has been the featured saxophonist on American Idol, sat in with Paul Shaffer on The Late Show with David Letterman, and toured with artists like Duran Duran and Aerosmith. One of her Grammy nominations was for her solo LP Wild Heart featuring names like Joe Perry, Trombone Shorty, Keb’ Mo’, and more.
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
Monica Ramey: The Music of Peggy Lee & Cy Coleman – Friday, September 5 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Acclaimed vocalist Monica Ramey brings a special tribute concert to the Jazz Cave, honoring the music of Peggy Lee and Cy Coleman. Ramey has received wide recognition for her work, and has worked with some of the best in the business, including Roger Spencer, Jeff Coffin, Lori Mechem, and many more. She is perhaps best known for her longtime collaboration with pianist Beegie Adair, with whom she has produced and appeared on numerous albums. For this concert, her band will include Lori Mechem on piano, Roger Spencer on bass, and Gus Duffy on drums.
In Harmony with Thea Danos & James Richardson – Friday, September 12 – 7:30 PM ($35)
If you’re a fan of vocal jazz, this show will definitely be of interest to you. NJW favorite Thea Danos joins with award-winning singer and arranger James Richardson for an evening of vocal duets. Danos is known for her mastery of Brazilian bossa-nova, singing in Portuguese with precision and authenticity.
Dara Starr Tucker Album Release Show – Saturday, September 13 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Acclaimed vocalist and songwriter Dara Starr Tucker celebrates the release of her of latest album, Time Wouldn’t Wait, with this special concert. The album features Tucker’s original music as well as some reimaginings of classics. Tucker’s vocal talent has received wide praise, having been described as “commanding and clear” (NPR), and has received widespread attention across the industry.
Jon Cowherd, Brian Blade, & Tony Scherr (2 sets) – Sunday, September 14 – 7:00 PM & 9:00 PM ($40)
Renowned Nashville pianist Jon Cowherd leads trio performances in back-to-back sets at the NJW. Cowherd is the cofounder of the Grammy-winning Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, and is known for his lyrical touch and harmonic mastery. He is joined by two other innovative jazz voices, his longtime collaborator Brian Blade on drums and Tony Scherr on bass.
Ian Coury & Isaac Eicher: Vivendo e Aprendendo Tour – detailed above
Locked In: Rhythm Section Chemistry Masterclass w/ Dave Elitch & Kevin Scott – Sunday, September 21 – 12:00 PM ($50)
Join rhythm section masters Dave Elitch and Kevn Scott for a special rhythm-section-focused masterclass at the NJW. Elitch, who has 25 years experience in the LA session scene, has developed a reputation as a top technique specialist, working with musicians around the world both in person and through his two hit online courses. Scott is a bassist and producer known for his deep pocket and versatility. He has toured and recorded with legends across the genre spectrum, from John McLaughlin to Wayne Krantz to Govt Mule and many more.
Jazz on Buchanan: Jennifer Hartswick & Nick Cassarino – Thursday, September 25 – 5:30 PM (FREE)
The NJW’s free Jazz on Buchanan concert series continues with a duo that has been playing and writing together for nearly two decades, trumpeter and vocalist Jennifer Hartswick, and guitarist Nick Cassarino. Along with their work together, both of these great musicians have collaborated with industry legends, among them Tom Petty, Herbie Hancock, John Mayer, Leslie Odom Jr, and many more.
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!
Katie Blomarz-Kimball – Wednesday, September 3 – 6:00 PM ($15)
2024 NIMA Award Winner for Best Jazz Instrumentalist, bassist Katie Blomarz-Kimball brings her group to Rudy’s for the first time. Her influences include Paul Chambers to Ray Brown to Christian McBride, her repertoire ranging from straight ahead to contemporary jazz. Her band features Dan Hitchcock on tenor sax, Jon Cowherd on piano, and Marlon Patton on drums, and her longtime collaborator, beloved vocalist Abigail Flowers, will also lead on vocals for several tunes.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursday, September 4 – 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.
Ryan Devlin Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, September 5 & Saturday, September 6 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Boston-based saxophonist and educator returns to the Rudy’s stage for two sets at Rudy’s. At just twenty-six years old, Devlin has already performed widely, including with ensembles like the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Orlando Jazz Orchestra, and in famous venues like Smalls in NYC, Chris’ Jazz Cafe in Philadelphia, and more. His quartet for these performances will feature Gene Perla on bass.
Midnight Mosaic: The Sounds of Shorter, Henderson & More – Friday, September 5 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Stellar Nashville trumpeter Nigel Cathey leads a powerhouse quartet for an evening of original music from his upcoming EP, as well as innovative interpretations of works by some jazz’s greats, including Joe Henderson, Wayne Shorter, Richard Rogers, and Ellis Marsalis.
Shaun Munday – Saturday, September 6 – 5:30 PM ($12)
Bassist Shaun Munday returns to the Rudy’s stage with his full band. Munday has studied and performed with some of the industry’s greats, including John Mayer, Esperanza Spalding, and Antonio Sanchez, among others.
Mr. Mayo “Food For Thought” Album Release Show – Monday, September 8 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Nashville-based jazz fusion band Mr. Mayo celebrates the release of their album, Food For Thought, with a release show at Rudy’s. Truly embodying the spirit of jazz fusion music, the members of the band draw upon influences from a wide range of genres and styles, from jazz and blues to rock, Gospel, and even Hip Hop. Made up of Kent Crawley (guitar), Matt Twaddle (keys), Leland Nelson (bass), and Jake Robinson (drums), Mr. Mayo presents a set of original jazz fusion tunes mixed with jazz fusion classics from the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Herbie Hancock, and more.
Bruce Dudley Quartet: “Hidden Gems of Duke Ellington” – Thursday, September 11 – 9:00 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 group presents a special performance featuring some of the lesser-known works of one of perhaps jazz’s best-known name, Duke Ellington. His band will feature Don Aliquo on saxophone, Jack Aylor on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Alex Murphy Trio ft. Gabrielle Cavassa – detailed above
Julian Lee Quartet – Friday, September 12 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Recipient of the 2017 Lincoln Center Emerging Artist Award, saxophonist Julian Lee is quickly becoming one of the most coveted musicians on the scene today, and has already worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and more. He now leads a quartet at Rudy’s.
Joshua Constantine Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, September 12 – 11:00 PM ($10) & Monday, September 29 – 6:00 PM ($12)
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. His quartet will feature Sam Smith (bass), Michael Green (drums), and Dan La Maestra (piano).
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sundays, September 14 & 28 – 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.
Jerome Degey & Friends – Friday, September 19 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Guitarist Jerome Degey returns to Rudy’s. Originally from Paris, France, Degey has a family history that is both French and Afro-Caribbean, and his wide geographical influences come out in his unique style of playing. He has collaborated with a wide array of artists, including Jonathan Edwards, Duffy Jackson, Daniel Levy, and many more.
David Cook Quintet – Friday, September 19 – 8:00 PM ($25)
Pianist David Cook has worked across many different genres, from jazz to pop to blues, as a musical director, sideman and leader. He has served as musical director for Taylor Swift, Thomas Rhett, Shayna Steele, and more. As a leader he has released three critically acclaimed jazz records. He now brings his quintet back to Music City, joined by Terence Harper (trumpet), Miguel Alvarado (saxophone), Jacob Jezioro (bass), and Jordan Perlson (drums).
Andrew Golden – Friday, September 19 – 11:00 PM ($12)
Golden is a Nashville-based trumpeter and electronic musician known for his extensive work as both bandleader and session player. He has worked with artists like Kacey Musgraves, Jesse Welles. Lauren Daigle, and many others. He now leads a band at Rudy’s, performing everything from Herbie Hancock to Brazilian funk to Horace Silver to their own original music. This band features an all-star cast, Kevin Gastonguay (Cory Wong) on keys, Kevin Scott (Gov’t Mule, Wayne Krantz) on bass, and Nate Felty (Zach Top, Dynamo) on drums.
Shayna Steele – Saturday, September 20 – 8:00 PM ($25)
Known for her versatile mastery of many different genres from soul and jazz to blues and rock, Shayna Steele has become one of the most in-demand vocalists in the industry today. She has performed as a guest soloist with over forty symphony orchestras across North America, and is a former cast member of Rent and Hairspray. She has released several studio albums under her own name, and her original song “Gone Under” was selected by Snarky Puppy for inclusion in their album Family Dinner, Vol. 1. Her band now features David Cook (piano), Dave Linaburg (guitar), Brian Cockerham (bass), and Derrek Phillips (drums).
Miles Damaso Trio – Saturday, September 20 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Award-winning percussionist, educator, and composer-arranger Miles Damaso leads a trio at Rudy’s. Damaso has performed with a wide range of artists throughout the South and Midwest, and graced the stages of iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Lincoln Center, appearing alongside greats like Joel Frahm, pat Coil, John Raymond, and many more.
Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, September 21 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Vocalist Wendy Burns’s popular series Ladies of Jazz returns, this time featuring Grammy-winning saxophonist Dana Robbins, who appears most months at Rudy’s with her own quintet, and vocalist Donna McManus, an accomplished live and studio performer. They will be backed by Michael Fair on trumpet, Melvin Macias on piano, Brian Allen on bass, and Bryan Brock on drums.
Abigail Flowers – Wednesday, September 24 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Beloved Nashville vocalist Abigail Flowers is known for her smooth and precise vocal ability, as well as her ability to sing in several languages, including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and even Hawaiian. Flowers’s shows include original songs as well as Great American Songbook classics. Her newest album, Only A Dream is set to be released later this year.
Corey Christiansen Quartet – Thursday, September 25 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Guitarist, recording artist, writer, and educator Corey Christiansen leads a quartet featuring Pat Coil on piano, Brian Allen on bass, and Jordan Perlson on drums.
Bruce Dudley Quintet: Reimagining the Music of Gershwin – Friday, September 26 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Pianist Bruce Dudley continues with the theme of honoring jazz greats, this time paying homage to one of the greatest songwriters in music history, George Gershwin, recognizing of the great’s 127th birthday. The quintet will feature Don Aliquo on sax, Bob McChesney on trombone, Rob Linton on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Glen Wilson / Rory Stuart Quartet – Saturday, September 27 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Baritone saxophonist Glenn Wilson and guitarist Rory Stuart celebrate the 35th anniversary of their groundbreaking recording Bittersweet. Wilson has been described as an “unsung hero in modern jazz” (All-Music Guide), while Stuart has been described as “one of the greatest living jazz guitarists” (Scott Yanow – The Great Jazz Guitarists). They will be joined by Nashville mainstays Jacob Jezioro on bass and Joshua Hunt on drums.
>Rudy’s Regulars
Jonathan Wires Quartet – Monday, September 1 – 6:00 PM ($12) Nashville bassist Jonathan Wires returns as bandleader in a quartet setting.
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. The quartet show will feature Pat Bergeson, Craig Akin, and Bob Harsen. The trio show will feature Danny Gottlieb and Jake Jezioro.
Pat Coil Quartet – Friday, September 5 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Pat Coil Trio – Saturday, September 20 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Don Aliquo Trio (2 shows) – Saturdays, September 6 & 27 – 11:00 PM ($10)
One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances twice this month, in trio format. He will be joined by Jack Aylor on bass and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Stephanie Adlington – Sunday, September 7 – 6:00 PM ($15)
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.
PT Gazell & the Side Effects – Wednesday, September 10 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Harmonica player PT Gazell returns to Rudy’s with his band the Side Effects, always redefining the way we see the instrument.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet – Saturday, September 26 – 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.
Jody Nardone Trio – Saturday, September 13 – 5:30 PM ($17)
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)
Re-Evolution – Mondays, September 15 & 22 – 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.
Bizz Bigsby – Wednesday, September 17 – 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.
Rebecca Carlson – Thursday, September 18 – 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.
Dana Robbins Quintet – Friday, September 26 – 5:30 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).
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).
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.
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.
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The Underdog Nashville
Guthrie Trapp Trio – Mondays, September 1, 15, 22 – 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.
Jack Ruch Trio – Thursdays, September 4, 25 – 7:00 PM ($10)
Jack Ruch returns this month with his organ trio, a classic jazz format.
Sideman – Monday, September 8 – 8:00 PM ($10)
Funk and fusion band Sideman features some Nashville’s finest young musicians, including Daniel Newell on guitar, Seth Cook on drums, Curry Winborn and Josh Karas on keys, and Alex St. Kitts on bass.
Corey Congilio – Saturday, September 20 – 7:00 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!
University Jazz
Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music
An Evening with Rick Beato – detailed above
Blair Big Band w/ Special Guest Ignacio Berroa – Tuesday, September 23 – 7:30 PM (Ingram Hall) ($12.50)
Cuban drummer Ignacio Berroa comes for a special performance with the Blair Big Band. Berroa is perhaps best known for being the drummer for Dizzy Gillespie’s band from 1981 until the legendary trumpeter’s death in 1993.
Belmont University
Faculty Jazz Group – Wednesday, September 17 – 7:30 PM (Massey Concert Hall)
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
Monday Night Jazz – Every Monday – 7:00 PM (Kingdom Café & Grill)
- About the Author
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Joseph E. Morgan is a father of two, husband, teacher and recovering guitarist in Middle Tennessee.
