Coming in December
The Jazz Beat — December 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.
El Mantis / Monica Shriver Trio / J.W. Bird – Friday, December 5 – 7:00 PM ($20) (Random Sample)
El Mantis is a Houston-based experimental music group born through a collaboration between drummer/vocalist Angel Garcia, saxophonist Danny Kamins, and guitarist Andrew Martinez. With a mix of many genres and a focus on avant-garde jazz, the group quickly became known in the Houston experimental music scene for their inventive compositions. They released their first album independently in 2022. They will be supported on this show by the Monica Shriver Trio, another experimental jazz ensemble who have released two albums, and J.W. Bird, a Nashville-based violinist, and composer who has released 10 full-length records, both solo and as collaborator, on his independent label Sagittal Plane.
A Charlie Brown Christmas w/ Alex Murphy Trio (multiple shows) (Rudy’s)
Rising star pianist Alex Murphy offers a number of performances of the classic Charlie Brown Christmas score with his trio, sure to get anyone in the Holiday spirit. He will also be joined by several special guest vocalists throughout these performances. Sunday, December 7 – 6:00 PM ($33) Thursday, December 18 – 9:00 PM ($33) Friday, December 19 – 5:30 PM ($35) & 8:00 PM ($43) Saturday, December 20 – 5:30 PM ($37) & 8:00 PM ($43) Sunday, December 21 – 6:00 PM ($33)
The Yohannes Tona Band – Sunday, December 7 – 7:30 PM ($35) (NJW)
Bassist Yohannes Tona is originally from Ethiopia, where he grew up absorbing the sounds of his parents’ traveling music ministry, forming his early love of music. Through education at Yared Music School in Addis Ababa and Berklee College in Boston, Tona honed his craft and quickly established himself as a world-class musician and composer. His music blends his Ethiopian heritage with the language of American jazz, soul, and funk music, making for an incredibly rich and unique sound. Now he brings his band to the Jazz Cave, accompanied by David Rodgers on piano/keyboards, Luke Sullivant on guitar, Miguel Alvarado on sax/flute, and Wendell Henry on drums/percussion.
Sam Greenfield – Monday, December 8 – 8:00 PM ($30) (Cannery Hall)
Saxophonist Sam Greenfield’s music is upbeat, funky, and features intricately written harmonic lines. His sound will hit home for any jazz fan.
A Young Original Christmas – Wednesday, December 17 – 6:00 PM ($18) (Rudy’s)
For something a little different from what we’re used to seeing as live jazz fans, Young Original brings their acoustic band to Rudy’s, offering a unique fusion of jazz, classical, folk, and pop influences for an evening of Christmas tunes. The band is known for their dynamic performances and incredible level of musicianship. The group consists of pianist and multi-instrumentalist Benjamin Morren, vocalist Josie James, cellist Silas Johnson, and producer and multi-instrumentalist Joe Xiques.
Tribute to McCoy & Trane w/ Don Aliquo (2 shows) – Saturday, December 27 – 8:00 PM ($22) & Sunday, December 28 – 6:00 PM ($18) (Rudy’s)
Saxophonist Aliquo offers another special tribute-style performance this month, which you will have two chances to see. This time, he is focusing on John Coltrane, and specifically, the work the legendary saxophonist did with pianist McCoy Tyner, who became the harmonic heart of Coltrane’s classic quartet. These performances pay homage to the indescribable impact the pair made on jazz music. Aliquo’s group will feature Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, and Joshua Cook on drums.
New Years Eve w/ the Wooten Brothers – Wednesday, December 31 – 8:00 PM ($140) (Rudy’s)
Brothers Regi and Joseph Wooten return for their super-popular annual NYE show at Rudy’s. With a ticket, guests gain access to the show, a photo booth, New Orleans-themed hors d’oeuvres, and a midnight champagne toast. The brothers and their band offer a night of high-energy funk music, setting the perfect mood to bring in the New Year.
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.
Moga Family Band – Thursday, December 4 – 7:00 PM ($15 GA / $20 reserved)
Musical collective Moga Family Band present for one night only their show How the Moga Family Band Stole Christmas, which will transform the Analog into a Christmas playground and present classic Christmas tunes uniquely arranged to feature the band’s genre-bending style and top-notch musicianship. The band is known for their powerful harmonies, jam-band worthy playing, and pop-friendly hooks.
Monica Ramey – Friday, December 5 – 8:00 PM ($20)
If you’ve followed the jazz scene in Nashville, you probably know vocalist Monica Ramey. She is known for her deep knowledge of the classic jazz tradition, masterfully interpreting the Great American Songbook and other jazz standards. She has been described as having an “impeccable” voice and as öne of the best jazz vocalists” (Broadway World). Joining her for this performance are Pat Coil on piano, Chris Autry on bass, and Miles Damaso on drums.
Analog Soul – Every Sunday (except December 14) – 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.
Joseph Wooten’s Annual Holiday & Birthday Celebration – Sunday, December 14 – 8:00 PM ($30)
Grammy-nominated keyboardist, vocalist, and composer and Wooten brother Joseph Wooten returns to the Analog for his annual Holiday concert which also celebrates his birthday. Wooten spent thirty-two years as the keyboardist for the legendary Steve Miller Band, and is a highly acclaimed songwriter in his own right, blending all his influences from funk, soul, and jazz. He is currently entering a new phase of his career, focusing on solo projects, and is due to release a new album next year.
Arrington Vineyards
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 weekend, at Arrington’s Pavilion Tent. I’ve listed the dates and performing acts below.
Jazz in the Pavilion Tent
Saturday, December 6 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Saturday, December 13 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, December 20 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, December 21 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, December 27 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, December 28 – 1:00-5:00 PM – Reed Pittman Band
City Winery Nashville
Nashville’s City Winery is a beautiful venue that consistently features top-talent acts that span genres from Jazz to Americana to Hip Hop. The below performances showcase a mix of several genres, but will certainly be of interest to any jazz audience. Enjoy these concerts accompanied by a stellar selection of wine and delicious bites.
Main Stage
A Charlie Brown Christmas w/ Jody Nardone – Sunday, December 14 – 7:30 PM ($20-35)
Another chance to catch A Charlie Brown Christmas, this time with Jody Nardone and his trio. If you follow the jazz scene here, you probably know Nardone as a frequent face at Rudy’s Jazz Room. This marks Nardone’s 10th annual performance of this music. His trio features Brian Allen on bass and Chris Brown on drums.
Nashville Jazz Orchestra: Boxing Day – Friday, December 26 – 7:30 PM ($25 advance / $30 day-of-show)
The NJO continues their annual Boxing Day performance, for those that want to get out of the house after the big holiday. The NJO was one of Nashville’s very first big bands, and for many years was one of the only big bands that existed in Music City. The level of musicianship of this band has not diminished over the years, so expect an incredible performance.
The Lounge
CusCampbell – Sunday, December 7 – 7:00 PM ($20-30)
Award-winning artist, songwriter, and trombonist CusCampbell comes to the Winery, backed by his stellar four-piece band. His music blends the traditions of jazz and R&B with newer styles like hip-hop and Afrobeats, creating a unique personal style. He and his band have become known for their high-energy performances and top-notch musicianship.
The Nashville Jazz Workshop
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
A Charlie Brown Christmas w/ Lori Mechem (2 shows) – Friday, December 5 & Saturday, December 6 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Longtime mainstay Nashville pianist Lori Mechem leads her quartet for two performances of the timeless Vince Guaraldi A Charlie Brown Christmas. As many of you surely know, Mechem has enjoyed an incredibly storied career spanning decades and including performances with Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Smith, Red Holloway, and many more. If you’re in the mood for the nostalgic feeling of this classic score, you would be hard pressed to find a better version than this. Her band will feature Roger Spencer on bass, Andy Reiss on guitar, and Chris Brown on drums.
Jazz AM: Holiday Jazz – Saturday, December 6 – 10:00 AM (FREE)
Jazz AM is a series of free Saturday morning programs, mostly geared towards children age 2-10 and their families. The program, facilitated by professional musicians, offers an interactive jazz concert to engage students, encourage creativity, and build musical awareness for these young people. This edition, of course, will feature Holiday music.
The Yohannes Tona Band – detailed above
Christmas w/ Haley and Friends – Friday, December 12 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Nashville vocalist Haley Schattschneider returns to the Cave with her band to lead a special Christmas set featuring music from her beloved annual “Christmas Sessions” YouTube series. Schattschneider released her debut album in July of this year, and her career has already included session work and performances with Stephen Schwartz, Sheryl Crow, Amy Grant, and more. She will be joined by a host of other wonderful musicians, including guest vocalists, Hannah Howell, Maxwell Sadler, James Richardson, and Chloe Parrish, and her band, featuring Daniel Kuk on piano, Isaas Mauldin on bass, Justin Amaral on drums, Patrick Dukes on guitar, and AJ Huang on saxophone.
Random Sample
Random Sample is an art gallery located in West Nashville. Though it primarily focuses on art displays, the venue also hosts various other types of events, from film screenings to intimate musical performances.
El Mantis / Monica Shriver Trio / J.W. Bird – detailed above
Nashville Improvisation Ensemble presents “Jacob’s Ladder” – Wednesday, December 10 – 7:00 PM ($20)
The Nashville Improvisation Ensemble is a group led by pianist Matt Endahl, featuring some of Nashville’s top improvisational talent. This includes names like Rod McGaha (trumpet), Steve Pardo (sax/clarinet), Kris Karlsson (guitar), and many others. As the name suggests, the group’s music is highly improvisational and experimental, pushing the boundaries of what a live band can do. “Jacob’s Ladder” is a composition by leader Endahl, a series of pieces based on the structure of DNA nucleotides.
Sean Hamilton / Klimchak – Saturday, December 20 – 7:00 PM ($20)
Sean Hamilton is a percussionist, composer, and improviser whose work is rooted in avant-garde and experimental music, free jazz and improvisation, as well as electronic music. He also incorporates design, photography, and multimedia projects, bringing together the analog and digital medium.
Rudy’s Jazz Room
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.
Wendy Burns Presents: The Christmas Star – Wednesday, December 3 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Top Nashville vocalist Wendy Burns presents Rudy’s first Christmas performance of the year, joined by special guests and backed by a stellar band. Burns is a highly-acclaimed singer who has won many awards, including the 2024 Best Jazz Vocalist from the Nashville Music Industry Awards. She is joined by Brian Allen on bass, Bryan Brock on drums, Melvin Macias on piano, and Bryan Meggison on sax.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursday, December 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.
Ellisa Sun – Friday, December 5 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Guitarist Ellisa Sun is an original artist combining elements of R&B, soul, jazz, and bossa nova in her music, some of which has been featured in major TV shows like “LA’s Finest,” “Dollface,” and “Kung Fu.” Her debut full-length album was released in February 2024 after a successful crowdfunding campaign.
Desmond Ng Quintet – Friday, December 5 – 8:00 PM ($20)
One of Music City’s finest jazz trombonists, Desmond Ng leads a quintet with some of Nashville’s top jazz talent. Since relocation to Nashville from Phoenix, Arizona, Ng has recorded and performed with notable artists like Dan & Shay, Judah and the Lion, the Nashville Symphony, Nashville Jazz Orchestra, and may more. He is also a prolific composer.
Jazz Clarinet Spectacular w/ Don Aliquo – Saturday, December 6 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Prominent Nashville saxophonist and Rudy’s regular Don Aliquo presents a special concert, this time switching it up and focusing on the clarinet in jazz music. He will be joined by fellow woodwind-ist David Williford on clarinet, bassist Jack Aylor, and drummer Ryan Brasley.
Jacob Jezioro Quartet – Saturday, December 6 – 8:00 PM ($21)
Mainstay Nashville jazz bassist Jacob Jezioro now leads his own quartet featuring some of Nashville’s most well-known players, including Matt Endahl on piano, David Williford on sax, and Sofia Goodman on drums.
A Charlie Brown Christmas w/ Alex Murphy Trio – detailed above
Cox, Flowers, & Meeks: Ready for Christmas – Wednesday, December 10 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Another Christmas show focusing on vocal music, singers Kyle Cox, Abigail Flowers, and Tabitha Meeks join forces for an evening of both original music and Christmas classics. All three are known as top-tier vocalists who also write their own music, so this should be an interesting evening, offering tunes you’ve a thousand times and ones you’ve never heard before.
An Old Fashioned Christmas w/ Stephanie Adlington (multiple shows) – Thursday, December 11 through Sunday, December 14 – 6:30 PM & 9:00 PM ($36-39)
For those in the mood for a more traditional Christmas sound, Rudy’s presents a series of shows, led by the “Siren of the South” Stephanie Adlington, featuring timeless Holiday standards and New Orleans Christmas classics. The Rudy’s menu will also feature special seasonal cocktails and New Orleans inspired holiday food selection.
A Young Original Christmas – detailed above
Sofia Goodman Trio – Friday, December 19 – 11:00 PM ($10)
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 David Ian Vintage Christmas Experience – Monday, December 22 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Pianist David Ian brings his “Vintage Christmas” show back to Rudy’s, right before the big holiday. This show is a live performance of a collection of his jazz trio arrangements from his four Vintage Christmas releases, which span over a decade of his career. As the name might suggest, these tunes offer a traditional, nostalgic sound for Christmases of yesteryear. Ian is joined by Blake Branch on bass, Sean McDonald on drums, and James Zimmerman on clarinet and saxophone.
Miguel Alvarado Quartet – Friday, December 26 – 11:00 PM ($10)
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.
Tribute to McCoy & Trane w/ Don Aliquo – detailed above
New Years Eve w/ the Wooton Brothers — detailed above.
Rudy’s Regulars
Joshua Constantine Quartet (2 shows) – Mondays, December 1 & 15 – 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.
Regi Wooten & Friends – Wednesdays, December 3, 10, 17 – 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.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, December 5 & Saturday, December 27 – 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.
Marc Payne Quartet (2 shows) – Saturdays, December 6 & 20 – 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.
Jonathan Wires Quartet – Monday, December 8 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Nashville bassist Jonathan Wires returns as bandleader in a quartet setting.
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Friday, December 26 – 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 Quartet – Friday, December 26 – 8:00 PM ($21)
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns with his quartet this month. 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. His quartet for this show will feature Steve Kovalcheck on guitar, Craig Akin on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Re-Evolution – Monday, December 29 – 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.
Rebecca Carlson – Saturday, December 27 – 5:30 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.
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 December 25) – 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 (except December 14) – 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
Cam G and the Tasty Soul – Thursday, December 4 – 7:00 PM ($10)
Led by saxophonist Cam Gallagher and comprised of young and energetic musicians, this is one of Nashville’s premier funk bands. Great songwriting along with killer performance chops make these shows a ton of fun.
Regular Nashville Hangs
Bohemia After Dark: Live Jazz Band with Andrew Golden – Every Monday – 8:00 PM (Old Glory)
Tuesday Bluesday w/ Shantelle & The Juke Joint Band – Every Tuesday – 6:30 PM (Rawhides)
Weekly blues night with a different special guest each week.
Dinner & A Show – Live Jazz Band – Every Friday – 7:00 PM (Flamingo Cocktail Club)
Living Room Sessions – Every Friday & Saturday – 8:00 PM (W Nashville Hotel)
Regular weekly showcase featuring local indie, jazz, funk, and R&B bands.
Eastside Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM (Inglewood Lounge)
This is not a traditional jazz jam playing standards, but rather an improv jam, but any jazz player or listener will still be interested!
Live Jazz at Wilburn St. Tavern – Tuesday Evenings
Nightly Jazz at Skull’s Rainbow Room
Nightly Jazz at Sinatra Bar & Lounge
Live Jazz at Skye Lounge – Every Friday & Saturday – 7:30 PM
NJW at Char Steakhouse – Evenings and Sunday Brunch
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.
