The Jazz Beat — October 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
Julian Lage – Thursday, October 9 – 7:00 PM ($54) (Blue Room)
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]
Superstar contemporary jazz guitarist Julian Lage comes to the Blue Room. A personal guitar hero of mine, Lage practically needs no introduction to those paying attention to the modern jazz scene. His latest album, “Speak to Me,” was released in March of this year, and effortlessly blends jazz, gospel hymn and rural blues, and singer-songwriter styles into a phenomenal performance. His current tour celebrates the ten-year anniversary of the release of his 2015 album World’s Fair.
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram – Thursday, October 9 – 8:00 PM ($40) (Cannery Hall)
There’s really no other way to say it: Ingram is a stunning guitar player, with a command of the blues that catapults him to the level of greats like Albert King and Muddy Waters. First making a name for himself on YouTube, Ingram’s rise has been meteoric, from playing in front of a camera to playing in front of thousands of people and winning a Grammy for one album and being nominated for another. At just twenty-six years old, one can only imagine the heights his career will bring him to in the future.
Tommy Emmanuel – Saturday, October 11 – 8:00 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
I don’t think I really need to spend too much time explaining who Tommy Emmanuel is, as he is overwhelmingly recognized as one of the absolute top-tier guitarists of his generation, including by none other than Chet Atkins, who has dubbed Emmanuel with his rare “Certified Guitar Player” title, in recognition of his contributions to pushing the boundaries of the guitar. Emmanuel’s work has spanned the genre range, playing everything from rock to jazz to country to folk.
Jacob Jolliff & Jeff Picker Trio – Monday, October 13 – 6:00 PM ($12) (Rudy’s)
Two major players on the acoustic jazz scene, mandolinist Jacob Jolliff and upright bassist Jeff Picker come together for a night of their interpretations of jazz standards. Jolliff has become a fixture of the bluegrass scene, having collaborated with big names like Béla Fleck, Michael Daves, Alex Hargreaves, among others., but he has also released three albums of jazz standards, increasing the place the instrument has in the genre. Picker is a highly sought-after bassist, and is a touring member of Nickel Creek, probably the most popular and high-profile bluegrass band on the scene today. He has worked with a whole host of other big-name artists, and has appeared on over fifty records in styles ranging the genre spectrum. The two now collaborate for what is sure to be a rather unique performance.
Laufey – Monday, October 13 – 7:30 PM (Bridgestone Arena)
Jazz audiences, and lovers of jazz vocal music in particular, have an incredible opportunity this month to see Laufey at Bridgestone Arena. The young Icelandic-Chinese singer and multi-instrumentalist has made it her mission “to bring jazz and classical music to [her] generation.” It’s fair to say she has succeeded spectacularly, as she has finished sold-out tours on three continents and was the most streamed jazz artist on Spotify. Laufey has an incredible, intoxicating voice that will hold your ear all evening long. Though tickets will be difficult to get, any jazz fan should seriously consider this amazing opportunity.
Nate Smith – October 18 – 8:00 PM (Basement East)
Drummer Nate Smith has established himself as a powerhouse of his generation. His instinctive talent has brought him three Grammy nominations and collaborations with industry legends like Pat Metheny, Dave Holland, Brittany Howard, the Fearless Flyers, and more. His shows blend his own original compositions with an eclectic mix of music, from jazz to R&B to hip-hop.
Polyrhythmics – Tuesday, October 21 – 8:00 PM ($30) (Cannery Hall)
With a sound originating in Seattle’s underground deep funk scene, Polyrhythmics have continued to evolve and develop as a group and as individual musicians across the thirteen years they’ve been together. Known for their super-tight grooves and top-notch musicianship, their music evokes elements of R&B, progressive jazz, funk, and Afrobeat. Their new album, Life From Below, arrives on September 12.
Nashville Jazz Festival – Saturday, October 25 & Sunday, October 26 (3rd and Lindsley)
The NJW, with Artistic Directors Jeff Coffin and David Rodgers, announce the very first Nashville Jazz Festival this October. The Festival will bring two days of great music, featuring top talent from Nashville and beyond, including some of the biggest names on the scene today, guitarist extraordinaire Cory Wong among them. If you’ve followed the jazz scene here, you will recognize many of the names on the list of appearances, including Sofia Goodman, Jon Cowherd, Jeff Coffin, Chris Walters, and many more. The Festival will include a Gospel brunch on Sunday, and cap off with an All-Star Super Band Sunday night.
Here Come the Mummies – Friday, October 31 – 8:00 PM (The Caverns)
Amazingly, as the name might suggest, this is a band of mummies. Known for their energetic live performances and funk-rock sound, the band consists of various professional musicians based here in Nashville who all perform anonymously in mummy costumes. Along with the atmosphere of the Caverns, the undead vibe should provide an unforgettable Halloween experience.
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+.
Yayennings – Monday, October 27 – 8:00 PM ($20)
Yayennings is a four-time Grammy-winning artist, most known for his work with jazz fusion supergroup Snarky Puppy. He has backed up legendary artists like Aretha Franklin, David Crosby, David Bowie, and many more. He now leads his own group playing his original music. Arrington Vineyards
With the cooling weather of Fall approaching, Arrington Vineyards continue their weekend musical offerings. 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.
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, October 3 – 4:30-8:30 – Art Four Sale
Saturday, October 4 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Sunday, October 5 – 1:00 -5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
Friday, October 10 – 4:30-8:30 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, October 11 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, October 12 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Friday, October 17 – 4:30-8:30 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, October 18– 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, October 19 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Friday, October 24 – 4:30-8:30 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, October 25 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, October 26 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
Jazz on the Lawn
Saturday, October 4 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, October 5 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Saturday, October 11 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Sunday, October 12 – 1:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, October 18 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, October 19 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Saturday, October 25 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, October 26 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
The Blue Room
Attached to Jack White’s Third Man Records in the Gulch, this is another smaller room, providing for close-up, intimate performances from a wide variety of acts. Many of Third Man’s own signed acts make appearances, but the Room hosts many different artists on their way through town.
Julian Lage – detailed above
Parlor Greens – Thursday, October 30 – 7:00 PM ($24)
Parlor Greens is a fresh new organ trio who released their debut album, In Green We Dream, last year. Presenting a fresh interpretation of the organ trio lineup while still paying homage to the trios of yesteryear, this group is powered by three stellar performers who all cut their teeth in other acts over the years, including GA-20, True Loves, Scone Cash Players, and more.
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
Andre Ward – Friday, October 17 – 7:30 PM ($25-45)
Having previously stopped by the Winery for a brunch show, Chicago native and jazz saxophone great André Ward now returns for an evening headline. Ward has been touring and recording for more than 30 years with industry greats like Lalah Hathaway, Will Downing, and Freddie Jackson.
Eric Roberson (2 shows) – Friday, October 24 & Saturday, October 25 – 7:30 PM ($60-78)
More soul and R&B than jazz, I thought this concert would still be of interest to the jazz audience. Across his seventeen studio albums, Eric Roberson has made a signficant name for himself as a deeply personal and honest singer and songwriter. His songs have earned him multiple Grammy nominations, and he currently serves as the Artistic Director at the National Museum of African American Music.
The Lounge
Brass Queens – Saturday, October 4 – 7:00 PM ($18 advance / $22 day-of-show) In a scene heavily dominated by male musicians, Brass Queens stands out as an all-female brass band. The women of this group have a commitment to increasing the visibility of female musicians, and as such have an incredible work ethic when it comes to playing as many shows for as many audiences as possible, earning them the title of “the hardest working band in town” by their NYC peers. Their sound pays homage to the traditional New Orleans brass band while injecting it with the energy of New York City.
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
Lori Mechem and Roger Spencer w/ the George Tidwell Sextet – Friday, October 3 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Six of Nashville’s finest musicians come together for a performance sure to burst at the seems with talent. Pianist Lori Mechem and bassist Roger Spencer, names very familiar to this newsletter, join a group of stellar musicians led by trumpeter George Tidwell. Tidwell has been shaping Nashville’s music scene since long before it became such a hub for jazz music, having been here since 1963. His career has spanned thousands of recording sessions and live performances, and he has worked with the who’s-who of great Nashville musicians. This performance will feature classic standards and Great American Songbook tunes, as well as original material from Tidwell and others. The group will aslo feature Dan Hitchcock on sax, Barry Green on trombone, and Marcus Finnie on drums.
Paulo Oliveira Quartet ft. Mauricio Zottarelli – Sunday, October 5 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Paulo Oliveira is a Brazilian guitarist, composer, and educator now based right here in Nashville. His music blends the lines between jazz, Brazilian, and contemporary music, and he has shared the stage with major names like Christian McBride, Jeff Coffin, Randy Brecker, and more. His quartet features Chris Autry on bass and Tony Moreira on piano, and they will be joined for this performance by Mauricio Zottarelli, a highly sought-after Brazilian drummer known for his versatiliy and depth across genres. They will also be joined by special guest vocalist Jennifer Graybill.
Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini: Revolução Album Release – Friday, October 10 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Longtime collaborators Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini now release their fourth record together, an album of original material featuring lyrics in Portuguese, French, and English and set to music drawing on a wide range of styles. Cressman is a trombonist, vocalist, and songwriter from San Francisco who has been recognized for her mastery of the instrument. Faquini is a guitarist, composer, and singer from Brasilia, Brazil. With this wide range of ability between them, they have honed a style that is very unique, earning them a finalist nomination for “Duo of the Year” by the Jazz Journalists Association in 2023. Together they have toured across the US and in Europe, Brazil, and Japan.
Community Events
Nashville Jazz Festival – 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!
Andy Reiss Quartet – Wednesday, October 1 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Grammy-winning guitarist Andy Reiss leads a stellar quartet of some of Nashville’s top musicians, including Charles Treadway on organ, Dan Hitchcock on saxophone, and Chris Brown on drums. Reiss, a member of the Time Jumpers, is a prolific recording session musician in Nashville, having recorded with greats like Slim Pickens, Pig Robbins, and Reba McEntire, among others. His long career and life in music has given him a wide range of influences, from Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead to Charlie Christian and Joe Pass.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursday, October 2 – 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.
Kandace Springs – Saturday, October 4 – 8:00 PM ($28)
Pianist and singer Kandace Springs has established herself as one of the premier female artists of the jazz and soul genre, and is now a featured performer at concert halls and festivals around the world. Her vocal and songwriting talent have caught her the attention of huge names in the industry, including Prince, Evan Rogers, Carl Sturken, Don Was, among many others. She has appeared on several late night shows with her songs, and she has now releases six albums under her name, including her most recent, Lady in Satin, a tribute to Billie Holiday, recorded with the sixty-piece Orquestra De Academia del Espinho.
Miguel Alvarado Trio – Monday, October 6 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, and educator Miguel Alvarado has made a name for himself as an innovator on the scene today, fusing the classic traditions of jazz music with contemporary R&B, Latin, and electronic music. His 2020 album Idile was praised for its innovative compositions and Alvarado himself for his improvisational prowess, which he also brings to his live performances. Alvarado has also toured extensively with the Darren English Quintet, including throughout South Africa and Europe.
Viktor Krauss – Wednesday, October 8 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Viktor Krauss is a bassist that has called Nashville home since 1992, and has over 600 credits to his name as either bassist, composer, or producer.
Jake Botts and Friends – Thursday, October 9 – 9:00 PM ($20)
Saxophonist Jake Botts has made quite the name for himself in the jazz scene, both in New York and right here in Music City. Originally from San Francisco, Botts cut his teeth in NYC, graduating from the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. He has recorded or performed/toured with a long list of some of the industry’s biggest names, including the Black Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Cory Wong, John Legend, Victor Wooten, and many more. He will be joined for this show by Andrew Golden (trumpet), Adam McPhail (guitar), Kevin Gastonguay (keys), Alec Newnam (bass), and Brandon Combs (drums).
Guitar & B3 Night w/ Bob Sabellico & Kyle Lehning – Friday, October 10 – 5:30 PM ($14)
An all-star band celebrates one of jazz’s most enduring formats, the organ trio. With three men who have a combined career of nearly a century, guitarist Bob Sabellico, keyboardist Kyle Lehning, and drummer Raymond Massey all have a wide base of experience touring with artists like The Guess Who, Randy Travis, Kenny Rogers, and many more.
Matt Endahl Quartet – Friday, October 10 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Matt Endahl is a well-known Nashville pianist, performing with a number of groups as well as teaching at universities. One of the most in-demand pianists in the region, he now presents his own quartet for an evening of classic jazz music. The quartet features Jonathan Wires on bass, John Westberry on drums, and Jayve Montgomery on saxophone.
Bob Harsen Quartet – Saturday, October 11 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Drummer Bob Harsen returns to Rudy’s with his quartet. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Harsen has recorded or performed with names like Tiger Okoshi, the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Randy Brecker, and others.
Jacob Jolliff & Jeff Picker Trio – detailed above
Joseph Wooten Benefit for Homeless Vets – Thursday, October 16 – 9:00 PM ($16)
Joseph Wooten of the Wooten Brothers and the Steve Miller Band, offers a night of soul, funk, and jazz music, raising money for organizations supporting homeless veterans.
Monica Ramey & Friends – Friday, October 17 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Fresh off a performance at the Jazz Cave last month, acclaimed vocalist Monica Ramey brings her show to Rudy’s. 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.
Jamey Simmons Quintet ft. Jovan Quallo – Friday, October 17 – 11:00 PM ($12)
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. For this performance, his quintet will feature Jon Cowherd on piano, Rob Linton on bass, and Miles Damaso on drums, with Jovan Quallo on saxophone.
Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, October 19 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Vocalist Wendy Burns’s popular series Ladies of Jazz returns, this time featuring vocalists Ellen Musick and Roz Thompson. Musick enjoyed a thirty-year music career which included a decade of singing with the band Fifth Avenue, a thirteen-piece jazz orchestra with four singers. She now comes out of her twenty-year retirement to sing with Burns. Thompson is a top-tier vocalist who has been described as “a real stunner, an amazingly versatile talent.” She has been a guest artist on The Tonight Show several times, and has shared the stage with legends of the industry.
Nate Spratford Trio – Monday, October 20 – 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.
MTSU Jazz Night – Wednesday, October 22 – 6:00 PM ($12)
The MTSU jazz students and faculty host a special all-ages set to showcase the talent at the University. The first set will feature performances from across the department, while the second set will open up into a jam session.
Jerome Degey & Friends – Thursday, October 23 – 9:00 PM ($14)
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.
Alyssa Allgood Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, October 24 & Saturday, October 25 – 8:00 PM ($23)
Vocalist Alyssa Allgood was named a “Rising Star Female Vocalist” in the 2024 Downbeat Magazine Critics Poll. She just released an album last year titled From Here, featuring a collection of original music recorded with acclaimed musicians Geoffrey Keezer, John Patitucci, Kendrick Scott, and Greg Ward. She now comes to Rudy’s for her first extended performance for back-to-back Friday/Saturday main-slot shows, performing a mix of beloved standards and original music.
Greg Bryant Expansion – Friday, October 24 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Bassist and broadcaster Greg Bryant leads his band featuring Jovan Quallo on sax and Marcus Finnie on drums. Since beginning his career in the early 2000’s, Bryant has recorded or performed with artists like Irma Thomas, Robert Walter, Eric Krasno, Charlie Hunter, and more.
Yayennings Quartet – Saturday, October 25 – 5:30 PM ($18)
Before he appears at the Analog on Monday, you can catch Yayennings and his Quartet at Rudy’s.
Joshua Constantine Quartet – Monday, October 27 – 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 on bass, Danny McGonegle on drums, and Daniel Mandrychenko on guitar.
Colleen Orender – Wednesday, October 29 – 9:00 PM ($14)
The sultry jazz vocals of Colleen Orender return to Rudy’s, transforming the club into a smoldering Mississippi juke joint for the evening.
Spooks and Swing w/ the Miles Damaso Trio – Friday, October 31 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Percussionist and composer-arranger Miles Damaso leads his trio with Leland Nelson on bass and Marc Payne on piano for a Halloween set, featuring special Halloween-themed jazz.
Rudy’s Regulars
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Friday, October 3 – 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. 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 Ted Ludwig, Josh Hunt, and Craig Akin, while his “Music for Humans” set will feature Brian Allen, Wes Little, Hunter Strasser, and Evan Cobb.
Pat Coil Quartet – Friday, October 3 – 8:00 PM ($21)
Pat Coil’s Music for Humans – Friday, October 17 – 8:00 PM ($21)
Marc Payne
One of Nashville’s most talented up-and-coming pianists Marc Payne will lead groups three times this month. 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. His quartet shows will feature Don Aliquo on sax, John Phillip Allen on bass, and Danny McGonegle on drums. The quintet show will feature Giovanni Rodriguez on bass, Blaise Hearn on trumpet, and Walter Rodriguez on drums, with special guest Puerto Rican composer, producer, and vocalist Melody González.
Marc Payne Quartet – Friday, October 3 – 11:00 PM & Saturday, October 18 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Marc Payne Quintet – Saturday, October 11 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Jody Nardone Trio (2 shows) – Saturday, October 4 – 5:30 PM ($17) & Saturday, October 18 – 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)
Don Aliquo
One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances three times this month, in trio and quartet format. His trio will feature Jack Aylor on bass and Ryan Brasley on drums, while the quartet will bring in Marc Payne on piano.
Don Aliquo Trio – Saturday, October 4 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Don Aliquo Quartet – Friday, October 10 – 8:00 PM ($20) & Friday, October 24 – 5:30 PM ($14)
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sunday, October 5 – 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.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Saturdays, October 11 & 25 – 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, October 12 – 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, October 15 – 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.
Bruce Dudley Trio – Sunday, October 26 – 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 he leads in trio format, joined by Jim Ferguson on bass and Marc Widenhofer on drums.
Dana Robbins Quintet – Wednesday, October 29 – 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).
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 – Wednesdays, October 1, 8, 15 – 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.
The Underdog Nashville
Guthrie Trapp Trio – Mondays, October 6, 13, 20 – 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, October 18 – 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
Jazz Combos – Sunday, October 19 – 7:30 PM (Turner Recital Hall)
Belmont University
Jazz Small Groups – Monday, October 6 – 7:30 PM (Harton Recital Hall)
Jazz Big Band – Wednesday, October 22 – 7:30 PM (Massey Concert Hall)
Jazz Small Group & Jazz String Septet – Monday, October 27 – 7:30 PM (Harton Recital 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.
