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
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.
JD Simo – Monday, November 3 – 7:00 PM (Franklin Theatre)
Chicago-native turned Nashville-based guitarist and producer JD Simo performs at the Franklin Theatre. Known more for blues and rock than jazz, I think this show will still be of interest to any jazz listener, especially those that like to explore the more contemporary and fusion side of things.
Abigail Flowers: Only A Dream Album Release – Friday, November 7 – 7:30 PM ($35) (NJW)
Award-winning Nashville-based vocalist Abigail Flowers celebrates the release of her first full-length album at the Workshop! Known for her smooth and precise vocal style, Flowers pays homage to legendary vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald, Chet Baker, and Nat King Cole. She is also known for her ability to sing in a number of languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, and Hawaiian.
John Mailander’s Forecast w/ Special Guest Jeff Coffin – Saturday, November 8 – 8:00 PM (Eastside Bowl)
Forecast is a Nashville-based collective of industry-leading musicians led by multi-instrumentalist and composer John Mailander. Originally formed for the live debut of Mailander’s album Forecast, the band took on the name for a series of residency shows, which then turned into a full-fledged band with a dedicated live following, known for their adventurous improvisations and genre-bending style. They have now released two albums together as a band. The ensemble features the talents of many musicians, including Mailander (fiddle/keys/electronics), Ben Garnett (guitar), Chris Miller (tenor sax), Geoff Saunders (bass), and David Williford (woodwinds), among others. This performance will feature legendary Nashville-based saxophonist Jeff Coffin.
Desmond Jones – Thursday, November 13 – 9:00 PM ($10) (Underdog)
Though the name may suggest a singular artist, Desmond Jones is actually an award-winning five-piece rock band from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Their original music is centered on melodic guitar riffs and funky bass and drums, finished off with saxophone cutting above the rest, meaning this group is sure to be of interest for any jazz fan, especially those into fusion.
Melvin Macias Afro-Cuban Jazz Quintet – Thursday, November 13 – 9:00 PM ($15) (Rudy’s)
Pianist and composer Melvin Macias leads his Afro-Cuban Jazz Quintet. As the name might suggest, this ensemble is dedicated to high-energy Latin and Caribbean music, featuring Macias’s original compositions and arrangements. Originally from Cuba and having studied the music of the region for decades, Macias is definitely an expert and sure to do the music justice. He will be joined by Bryan Meggison on sax, Walter Rodriguez on drums, Yosvany Cordero on congas, and Marlon Randy on bass.
Alex Hahn: Reflections Tour – Saturday, November 22 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Grammy-winning saxophonist Alex Hahn returns to the Cave for his Reflections Tour. Hahn is very active as a session musician in Los Angeles, and is an alumni of the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance. He has recorded with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Herbie Hancock, John Clayton, and Esperanza Spalding, among others, and has been featured on Michael Bublé’s last three Grammy-nominated albums.
Charlie Brown Thanksgiving w/ the Alex Murphy Trio (2 shows) – Sunday, November 23 & Wednesday, November 26 – 6:00 PM ($20)
Come ring in the Holiday season with the classic, nostalgic, and wholesome sounds of Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, a heartwarming film that has stood the test of time since its original airing in 1973. Murphy is a regular at Rudy’s and other jazz venues, so he is sure to do it justice on these two sets.
Béla Fleck & the Flecktones: Jingle All the Way – Wednesday, November 26 – 7:30 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
Banjoist Béla Fleck, with the collaboration of keyboardist Howard Levy and Wooten brothers Victor (bass) and Roy (percussion/drums), have forged a sound that is almost impossible to define. Their music draws on a huge array of influences, from classical to jazz to bluegrass to African and Eastern European folk music. The group now brings a reunion tour to the Ryman for a Holiday concert, revisiting their 2008 album Jingle All the Way, an album of inventively reimagined Holiday classics.

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, November 9, 23, 30 – 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. These shows will as usual feature Will Davenport and DJ Smoke.
Sarah Aili – Thursday, November 20 – 8:00 PM ($10 GA / $25 reserved seating)
Artist Sarah Aili excels in many mediums, and is known for her work in music, theater, and storytelling. She was recognized by the Nashville Scene as one of the city’s top actors for her roles in Waitress and Innocent with Nashville Rep. She continues to delve into new and different creative projects, and this month at the Analog she presents a night of original songs, timeless American Songbook classics, and unexpected covers.
With the dropping temperatures, Arrington Vineyards continues to offer weekend entertainment, but with a somewhat reduced capacity. You’ll still be able to catch live jazz here every Saturday and Sunday, on Arrington’s Hillside Stage. 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
Saturday, November 1 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Sunday, November 2 – 1:00 -5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, November 8 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, November 9 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, November 15 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Sunday, November 16 – 1:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, November 22 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, November 23 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
Friday, November 28 (Black Friday) – 12:00-4:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, November 30 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
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
Nicole Henry – Wednesday, November 5 – 7:30 PM ($20-30)
Winner of a Soul Train Award for Best Traditional Jazz Performance, and with multiple chart-topping releases to her name, vocalist Nicole Henry makes her Nashville debut, backed by her four-piece band, playing their distinctive blend of jazz, soul, pop, and blues. Henry has been described as a “pop-soul superwoman” (NYT) with a “sharp and distinctive” interpretative sense (Billboard).
Rick Braun – Wednesday, November 12 – 7:30 PM ($45-65)
Trumpeter and flugelhornist Rick Braun has amassed more than twenty #1 Smooth Jazz hits over his more than three decade career, and he has shown no signs of slowing down. In addition to recordings under his own name, he has produced hits for other big names of the genre, and released three acclaimed albums as part of the all-star trio BWB, with Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown.
The Lounge
Gareth Pearson & Antoine Dufour – Wednesday, November 12 – 7:00 PM ($25 advance / $30 day-of-show)
Two giants of the acoustic guitar scene come together for an evening of music in The Lounge. Gareth Pearson is a Welsh guitarist who is known for his virtuosic technique and fingerstyle playing. He has been praised by industry greats like Tommy Emmanuel and Stefan Grossman. Antoine Dufour is Canadian, and similarly has captured attention with his top-level playing, having released eight albums of original music and garnered over fifty million collective views on YouTube.
Moving on to Music City’s premier 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. The Cave is packed with great performances this month, so get your tickets now!
Jazz Cave
Nate Spratford: The Music of Jackie McLean – Saturday, November 1 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Quickly becoming a familiar face at Rudy’s and other jazz venues across Nashville, up-and-coming saxophonist Nate Spratford brings a special tribute concert to the Jazz Cave, paying homage to the music of legendary saxophonist Jackie McLean, a protégé of Charlie Parker who went on to carve out his own voice and have his own impact on future generations. Spratford, on alto sax, will be joined by a number of other prominent Nashville musicians, including David Williford on tenor sax, Emmauel Echem on trumpet, Marc Payne on piano, Rob Linton on bass, and Danny McGonegle on drums.
Abigail Flowers: Only A Dream Album Release – detailed above
Liz Johnson, Joe Freel, Christina Watson: Happy Talk – Sunday, November 9 – 3:00 PM ($35)
A special matinee performance in the Cave presents songs of joy, featuring three of Nashville’s top jazz vocalists. These emeritus instructors at the Workshop will be joined by Bruce Dudley on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, Larry Aberman on drums, and Dan Hitchcock on tenor sax.
Sofia Goodman Trio – Sunday, November 9 – 7:30 PM ($25)
Internationally recognized drummer and composer Sofia Goodman leads her trio to conclude their “Presence Tour.” Goodman’s arrangements and compositions have been described as “mesmerizing and compositionally rich” (DownBeat) and she has been called a “splendid composer and drummer” (All About Jazz). As a group, the Goodman Trio has toured the US and Canada, and appeared at many notable venues and festivals. Her trio features Matt Twaddle on piano and Jacob Jezioro on bass.
The Pat Coil Trio Presents “On Standard Time” – Friday, November 14 – 7:30 PM ($35)
If you’re a regular follower of this newsletter or the Nashville jazz scene in general, then you know the name Pat Coil, who has become a mainstay pianist, composer/arranger, producer, teacher, and studio musician, playing in many groups both as leader and sideman. He has recorded for innumerable artists such as Natalie Cole, George Strait, Kenny Rogers, and many more, as well as played on hundreds of commercials and TV and film scores. His trio for this performance features Danny Gottlieb on drums and Craig Akin on bass, both musicians with decades of experience as well.
Dave Potter & Retro Groove Play Hits from the 80’s – Saturday, November 15 – 7:30 PM
Drummer Dave Potter celebrates the release of his third album as leader,
Retro Groove 2, a collection of clever arrangements of 80’s classics from artists as varied as Whitney Houston, Rush, The Isley Brothers, and more. Potter is one of the top drummers on the scene today, regularly performing with Jason Marsalis, Marcus Roberts, Greg Tardy, and many others. His band for this show features Miguel Alvarado on sax, Angelo Versace on piano, and Rob “El Tón” Linton on bass.
Alex Hahn: Reflections Tour – detailed above
Community Events
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.
Jacob Jezioro Quartet – Saturday, November 1 – 8:00 PM ($20)
Mainstay Nashville jazz bassist Jacob Jezioro now leads his own quartet featuring some of Nashville’s most well-known players, including John Cowherd on piano, Marcus Finnie on drums, and Miguel Alvarado on saxophone.
Alex Murphy Trio – Monday, November 3 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Rising star pianist Alex Murphy performs leading a trio featuring Lex Warshawsky on bass and Brian Richburg on drums.
Joshua Constantine Quartet (2 shows) – Wednesday, November 5 – 9:00 PM ($14) & Friday, November 21 – 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. His quartet will feature Sam Smith on bass, Michael Green on drums, and Dan La Maestra on piano.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursday, November 6 – 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.
Miles Damaso Trio – Friday, November 7 – 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.
Eli Ibrahim Quartet – Saturday, November 8 – 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.
Pat Bergeson Trio w/ Charles Treadway – Sunday, November 9 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Guitarist and harmonica player Pat Bergeson returns to Rudy’s, this time in a trio format, featuring Charles Treadway on jazz organ. Treadway is widely considered to be the top organ player in Nashville, with playing reminiscent of greats like Jimmy Smith and Joey DeFrancesco.
Nate Spratford Trio – Monday, November 10 – 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 Ian Nussdorfer on bass and Miles Buchmann on drums.
Vanderbilt Blue Note Combo – Wednesday, November 12 – 6:00 PM ($10)
The Blue Note Combo is the premier small jazz ensemble at Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music, under the direction of Ryan Middagh and Jeff Coffin and featuring some of the top-tier student talent. This ensemble performs exclusively original music, spanning genres from traditional swing to funk, pop, and rock. The group features Nate Spratford (sax), Jason Johnson (sax), Reese Roberts (guitar), Eli Ibrahim (piano), Ian Nussdorfer (bass), and Miles Bucmann (bass). This show is all ages.
MILEStones: Tribute to Miles Davis – Wednesday, November 12 – 9:00 PM ($15)
The Miles Davis tribute ensemble returns to the Rudy’s stage. This quintet focuses on music from the “great quintets” that Miles led in the 50’s and 60’s.
Andrew Carney and the Essentials – Friday, November 14 – 5:30 PM ($14)
Acclaimed trumpeter and flugelhornist leads his band the Essentials. Carney has been playing both instruments professionally since he was fifteen, and in addition to his impressive performance chops, he is also a composer, songwriter, arranger, and educator, and his music has been featured in commercials for Google, Nutra Systems, the LA Times, and more.
Melvin Macias Afro-Cuban Jazz Quintet – detailed above
Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, November 16 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Vocalist Wendy Burns’s popular series Ladies of Jazz returns, this time featuring fellow vocalists Crystal Miller and Dallas Starke.
Connye Florance – Thursday, November 20 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Acclaimed Nashville vocalist Connye Florance comes to the Rudy’s. Florance has won many accolades, including “Jazz Vocalist of the Year,” a NAMMY (Nashville Grammy) nomination for Album of the Year, Southern Artistry’s “Esteemed Southern Artist” award, and many more. She is known for her smooth vocal style and energetic stage presence. She will be joined by Kevin Madill (piano), Brian Allen (bass), Marcus Finnie (drums), and Jovan Quallo (sax).
Dave Potter Sextet Plays the Music of Miles Davis (2 sets) – Friday, November 21 – 8:00 PM ($23) & Saturday, November 22 – 5:30 PM ($20)
All-star drummer Dave Potter leads a sextet of some of Nashville’s best to pay homage to the music of Miles Davis, whose importance and influence on the history of music needs no explanation. His ensemble will feature Miguel Alvarado on sax, Desmond Ng on trombone, Andrew Sioberg on trumpet, Rob Linton on bass, and Martin Bejerano (11/21) and Daniel Kuk (11/22) on piano.
Blue Matter Project – Monday, November 24 – 6:00 PM ($12)
This band offers modern interpretations of straight-ahead and contemporary electric and pop jazz standards. Led by guitarist Robert Baglione, who has performed extensively with names like Michael Henderson, CeCe Peniston, Billy Dickens, and more, the band also features Anthony Belfiglio (keys), Brian Cornish (sax), Leland Nelson (upright bass), and Isaac Velasquez (drums).
Charlie Brown Thanksgiving w/ the Alex Murphy Trio – detailed above
Adam Wooten Trio – Friday, November 28 – 5:30 PM ($15)
The newest generation of the incredibly musical Wooten family arrives, with drummer Adam Wooten, son of Victor Wooten, leads his trio, featuring energetic, funky music sure to provide a lively, entertaining set.
Rudy’s Regulars
Jody Nardone Trio (2 shows) – Saturday, November 1 – 5:30 PM ($17) & Saturday, November 15 – 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)
Marc Payne Quartet (2 shows) – Saturday, November 1 & Friday, November 28 – 11:00 PM ($10)
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.
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sunday, November 2 – 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.
PT Gazell & the Side Effects – Wednesday, November 5 – 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.
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Friday, November 7 – 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
One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances a number of times this month, in trio, quartet, and quintet format. His trio will feature Jack Aylor on bass and Ryan Brasley on drums. The two quintet performances will feature special guests, D.C.-based Shawn (guitar) and Darden (vocals) Purcell.
Don Aliquo Quintet – Friday, November 7 & Saturday, November 8 – 8:00 PM ($24)
Don Aliquo Trio – Friday, November 14 & Saturday, November 22 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Don Aliquo Quartet – Saturday, November 29 – 5:30 PM ($14)
Pat Coil
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns with multiple shows this month, leading his quartet and his special Music for Humans project. 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 shows will feature, on November 8, Ted Ludwig, Robert Harsen, and Craig Akin, and, on November 28, Harsen, Akin, and Pat Bergeson. His “Music for Humans” set will feature Brian Allen, Wes Little, Hunter Strasser, and Evan Cobb.
Pat Coil Quartet – Saturday, November 8 – 5:30 PM ($15) & Friday, November 28 – 8:00 PM ($21)
Pat Coil’s Music for Humans – Saturday, November 22 – 8:00 PM ($21)
Stephanie Adlington – Friday, November 14 – 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.
Bruce Dudley
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 month he performs twice, in quartet and quintet format. His quartet will feature Jack Aylor (bass), Marc Widenhofer (drums), and J. Kyle Gregory (trumpet), while his quintet will feature Don Aliquo (sax), Roger Spencer (bass), Larry Aberman (drums), and Sandra Dudley (vocals).
Bruce Dudley Quartet – Saturday, November 15 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Bruce Dudley Quintet – Saturday, November 29 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Saturdays, November 15 & 29 – 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.
Re-Evolution – Monday, November 17 – 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, November 19 – 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.
Regi Wooten & Friends – Wednesdays, November 19 & 26 – 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.
Dana Robbins Quintet – Friday, November 21 – 5:30 PM ($15)
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).
Sarah Jane Nelson – Sunday, November 30 – 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”.
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 (except November 27) – 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.
Guthrie Trapp and Friends – 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. Catch Trapp with special guests Mondays at the Underdog.
John Radebaugh and Friends – Thursday, November 6 – 7:00 PM ($10)
Another of Nashville’s premier guitarists, John Radebaugh now comes to the Underdog stage. Radebaugh blends rock, prog rock, and jazz fusion into his own unique style. He will be performing with a number of special guests.
Desmond Jones – detailed above
Corey Congilio – Friday, November 21 – 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
Many times led and mentored by some of the industry’s greats, the young people cutting their teeth in university jazz programs are often the next big stars of the jazz scene, so don’t sleep on these student ensembles!
Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music
Blair Jazz Choir – Sunday, November 2 – 7:30 PM ($12.50) (Turner Recital Hall)
Blair Big Band w/ Sean Jones – Thursday, November 6 – 7:30 PM ($12.50) (Ingram Hall)
The Blair Big Band performs with Sean Jones, one of the top trumpeters on the scene today. Jones is a Grammy-winning musician, composer, and educator, and has performed with a long list of big-name artists. This is sure to be a special concert, so don’t miss out!
Jazz Combos – Monday, November 17 – 7:30 PM (Turner Recital Hall)
University Singers & Vocal Jazz Concert – Tuesday, November 18 – 7:30 PM ($12.50) (Turner Recital Hall)
Belmont
Jazz String Septet – Sunday, November 9 – 6:30 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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Wyatt Parks is a music industry professional and musical artist based in Nashville, TN. Originally from East Tennessee, he has played and performed music since the age of nine. He earned an Associates degree in Music from Pellissippi State Community College in Knoxville, and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Industry with a Jazz Guitar focus from Middle Tennessee State University. Now living in Nashville with his two cats, he writes music as an independent artist, and occupies a vital role on the Digital Sales team at Naxos of America, a music distributor with a specialty in Classical and Jazz.