Dakota

Artemis: Sketches Of Miles
2026-05-13 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
DownBeat magazine’s Annual Readers Poll Jazz Group of the Year for three consecutive years (2023–2025)

“an extremely cosmopolitan, sleek, rhythm-forward, modern sound.” – NPR

Renee Rosnes, piano
Ingrid Jensen, trumpet
Nicole Glover, saxophone
Noriko Ueda, bass
Allison Miller, drums
In celebration of Miles Davis’s centennial, the award-winning Artemis explores his monumental impact. Here, they showcase new arrangements largely drawn from the trumpeter’s signature 1960’s period. Furthermore, from introspective moods to free interplay and dramatic shifts, Artemis presents a fascinating look at the many moods of Miles.
Artemis—named for the Greek goddess—is a multinational ensemble of jazz instrumental virtuosos. Pianist and composer Renee Rosnes founded the group in 2017. Now, its current lineup includes pianist Renee Rosnes, trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover, bassist Noriko Ueda, and drummer Allison Miller. Here, each member is an accomplished bandleader with a major career and a prolific body of work.
The group’s third release, 2025’s Arboresque, features original songs by all members with fresh arrangements of classic material. Then, The Guardian named the recording one of its Top Ten Jazz Albums of 2025. There, they praised its “cliché-free individuality and congenial collective spirit radiantly combined.” Thus, the band’s popularity has continued to grow through performances at major festivals and venues worldwide. Moreover, they delivered a powerful appearance in May 2025 on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Series. There, NPR hailed Artemis as “a killer line-up of players, composers and performers… who converge on an extremely cosmopolitan, sleek, rhythm-forward, modern sound.”
Further, DownBeat magazine’s Annual Readers Poll voted Artemis Jazz Group of the Year for three consecutive years (2023–2025). Additionally, the Jazz Journalists Association named them Mid-Size Ensemble of the Year in both 2024 and 2025.
Recommended for fans of Pat Metheny, Maria Schneider, Christian McBride and Amina Figarova.
📸: John Abbott

Brad Mehldau Trio
2026-05-12 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-11 19:00 - 21:00
“Mehldau is the most influential jazz pianist of the last 20 years” – New York Times

One of the most lyrical and intimate voices of contemporary jazz piano, Brad Mehldau has forged a unique path. Here, he embodies the essence of jazz exploration, classical romanticism and pop allure. Mehldau has garnered critical acclaim as a bandleader, and major international exposure in collaborations with Pat Metheny, Renee Fleming, and Joshua Redman. Furthermore, Mehldau continues to garner numerous awards and admiration from both jazz purists and music enthusiasts alike. His forays into melding musical idioms have seen brilliant reworkings of songs by contemporary songwriters. He covers The Beatles, Cole Porter, Radiohead, Paul Simon, Gershwin and Nick Drake, among others. Also, he has earned recognition for the ever-evolving breadth of his own significant catalogue of original compositions. With his self-proclaimed affection for popular music and classical training, “Mehldau is the most influential jazz pianist of the last 20 years”. (The New York Times)
Mehldau’s musical personality forms a dichotomy. He is first and foremost an improviser. He cherishes the surprise and wonder occurring from a spontaneous musical idea that is expressed directly, in real time. But he also has a deep fascination for the formal architecture of music, and it informs everything he plays. In his most inspired playing, the actual structure of his musical thought serves as an expressive device. As he plays, he listens to how ideas unwind, and the order in which they reveal themselves. Each tune has a strongly felt narrative arch, whether it expresses itself in a beginning, an end, or something left intentionally open-ended. The two sides of Mehldau’s personality—the improviser and the formalist—play off each other. Thus, the effect is often something like controlled chaos.
Recommended for fans of Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock and Ahmad Jamal.
📸: Yoshika Horita

Women Who Cook - A Mother’s Day Reunion
2026-05-10 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-10 16:00 - 18:00
This legendary MN band reunites for Mother’s Day!

Women Who Cook will grace the Dakota stage this Mother’s Day, in their first full show since 2002. Forty-four years ago, some of the Twin Cities most accomplished women musicians were assembled for an episode on TPT‘s NightTimes Variety, originally conceived by Marian Moore and Prudence Johnson as an all-star band of women from many genres of music. The group went on to create epic, sold-out shows at the Guthrie, the State, O’Shaughnessy, and the Ordway, and their historic Soviet Peace Tour of 1988.
Singers Jearlyn Steele, Ginger Commodore, Mary Jane Alm, Kathy Mueller, Gwen Matthews and Prudence Johnson come together once more. They will be backed by Women Who Cook veterans Jane Henderson on keyboards and Jane Aleckson on bass, Laurie Glaser on trumpet, and Sue Roberts on trombone. Coming on board for this reunion show are saxophonist Sue Orfield, pianist Mary Louise Knutson and drummer Sheila Earley. There will be a special tribute to former members Jeanne Arland Peterson and Kathy Jensen.
Women Who Cook distinguishes itself with its phenomenal musicianship and intricate vocal arrangements, and the beautiful energy and warmth that come from its all-woman lineup. This brilliant formation is known for associating themselves with social issues and they are excited to offer their genuine gift of love and peace through music as our community heals.
Recommended for fans of Moore By Four, Manhattan Transfer, The Steeles and Prince.

American Roots Revue:
2026-05-09 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-09 19:00 - 21:00
A living tribute to the diverse musical traditions that have shaped our nation.

American Roots Revue is back! Tonight, experience Gospel, R&B, blues, folk, rock ‘n roll, and Indigenous music, featuring Anishinaabe Ojibwe artist Dorene Day Waubanewquay. The scintillating foursome of Larry Long, Robert Robinson, Tonia Hughes Kendrick and JD Steele will be backed by a superlative band led by Billy Steele from Sounds of Blackness (keyboards/vocals), Joe Savage (pedal steel), Larry Dalton (bass), Greg Schutte (drums), and David Feily (guitar).
Don’t miss these veteran artists whose outstanding credits include stellar performances at the recent NO KINGS event to album credits and show appearances at renowned concert venues from Carnegie Hall to Madison Square Garden, honoring Rosa Parks, Pete Seeger and many others.
MEET THE ARTISTS:
Robert Robinson gives us reason to believe that the greatest music reaches every name and crosses every boundary. Thus, Robinson has wowed audiences from the Pontiac Silverdome to South Korea. Here, Robert is “God’s canary,” with the ability to sing any song and yet remain true to his vision.
Tonia Hughes is a recent McKnight Fellow. Her passion for music often results in culturally diverse collaborations alongside some of Minnesota’s most accomplished musicians. Furthermore, she has performed at Orchestra Hall, Lincoln Center and at hundreds of venues throughout the Twin Cities.
J.D. Steele exploded onto the Minnesota music scene in the mid 1980’s along with Prince, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Then, Mr. Steele and his dynamic vocal siblings, The Steeles, garnered every major music award Minnesota has to offer.
Billy Steele performs, writes, and produces for the Grammy-winning ensemble Sounds of Blackness. Also, Billy is the youngest of the legendary Steele family. Additionally, he appears on soundtracks with artists such as Rod Stewart and Luther Vandross.
Dorene Day Waubanewquay is an Ojibwe-Anishinabe Kwe of the Waubizayshi O’dodem – Marten Clan, from Asabikone zaaga I’ gunning – Bois Forte Reservation in northern Minnesota. There, she carries the responsibility of song keeper for her Midewiwin lodge. Moreover, her name means “Daybreak Woman,” someone who asks the darkness to give way to the light each morning.
Larry Long is an American singer-songwriter who has made his life work the celebration of everyday heroes. Here, author and historian Studs Terkel called Larry “a true American troubadour.” When America’s foremost folksinger, Pete Seeger, learned that Long was called the Pete Seeger of Minneapolis, Seeger chuckled. “I’d be proud to be known as ‘the Larry Long of New York.'”
Indivisible Twin Cities
Indivisible Twin Cities (ITC), Larry Long and musicians of American Roots Revue, and The Dakota will partner to raise funds for community members needing rent assistance. ITC and Larry have had opportunities to work together on No Kings events over the past year, and this is another way for us to continue the spirit of activism and community solidarity.
The economic harms caused by Operation Metro Surge linger – people are still in need of rent assistance. Mutual aid donations have slowed, but the need to keep people housed continues. Neighbors Helping Neighbors is an organization at the forefront of providing direct aid to those in need. This plan would raise funds directly for Neighbors Helping Neighbors rental assistance program.
Recommended for fans of Mavis Staples, Ulali, Sam Cooke, The Freedom Singers, Mahalia Jackson, and Pete Seeger.

Tommy Castro & The Painkillers
2026-05-08 19:00 - 21:00
“Sizzling, slow-burning, gritty blues and rock” – Living Blues

Multiple award-winning guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader Tommy Castro is a California-based blues and rock powerhouse. Here, he captivates audiences with his soul-drenched vocals, searing guitar work, and high-energy live shows. Furthermore, as frontman of the telepathically tight and wildly raucous Tommy Castro & The Painkillers, he’s released seventeen albums. Here, they span a wide stylistic range—from horn-driven R&B and hot-blooded soul to gritty, stripped-down rock and electric blues.
With his latest release, 2025’s Closer To The Bone, Castro returns to his roots. He delivers what he calls “a real blues record, the way they would have made them back in the day.” Thus, the album becomes Castro’s rawest and most direct blues effort to date.
Early on, Castro was inspired by icons like Elvin Bishop, Taj Mahal, and Mike Bloomfield. Then, he absorbed everything from Ike & Tina Turner to John Lee Hooker and Buddy Guy. There, he developed a uniquely uplifting and soulful style rooted in blues, R&B, and funk. Castro formed the first Tommy Castro Band in 1992.
Castro is one of the most decorated artists in contemporary blues, winning ten Blues Music Awards. Furthermore, these include four B.B. King Entertainer of the Year honors—the genre’s highest accolade. Here, his no-frills, 150-shows-a-year approach has earned him a fiercely loyal fanbase and praise from legends like Joe Bonamassa, who says, “Tommy has always been top of the heap among blues guitar players. He always puts on a great show.”
With Closer To The Bone, Tommy Castro strips it all back to deliver an album brimming with grit, fire, and authenticity. “This is the deeper blues side of me,” says Castro. “With these songs, I am at my most authentic.”
Recommended for fans of Coco Montoya, Jimmy Thackery, Walter Trout and Tab Benoit.

Martin Zellar
2026-05-07 19:00 - 21:00
“His songs are just too beautiful, too fully realized to ignore.” – Austin Chronicle

If you ask singer-songwriter Martin Zellar what he’s most proud of over his long career, he answers, “I guess that I’ve managed to support my family by writing, recording, and performing music for over thirty-five years. It hasn’t always been easy or glamorous, but I’ve found a way. I still love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else. And honestly, the fact that I’m not qualified to do anything else has been a motivator”. The truth is, Martin has made his living because he has always reliably delivered what his fans expect. Here, Zellar consistently provides quality songwriting and heartfelt performances.
Immediately after graduating from high school Martin moved to Minneapolis and formed the country-rock band The Gear Daddies. There, the band comprised friends and fellow Austinites Nick Ciola, Billy Dankert and Randy Broughten. The Gear Daddies had some success, and a lot of fun. Moreover, they consider themselves lucky to have been part of the 1990’s Twin Cities music scene.
The Gear Daddies released three critically acclaimed albums and toured non-stop. Additionally, they performed on Late Night with David Letterman before amicably parting ways in 1992. Zellar then went on to record and perform as a solo artist, releasing seven more albums. His 1993 release, Born Under, and his 2012 release, Roosters Crow, were especially well-received by critics.
Martin continues to record and perform as a solo artist and with his band the Hardways. That’s what he continues to do, and he still has fun. In October 2023, Zellar released Head West, his first new offering in over a decade, to wide critical acclaim.
Recommended for fans of The Gear Daddies, The Jayhawks, Peter Himmelman and BoDeans.

Nicholas David: Live at Dakota
2026-05-06 19:00 - 21:00
“infectious as hell… passionate” – City Pages

Nicholas David’s albums sound fantastic. He sounds great on TV. However, nothing compares to the magic, the excitement, the immediacy of seeing him live! He returns with his signature brand of soul-stirring rock music to record a new album.
The St. Paul singer/songwriter has been making music from the heart, for the heart for nearly thirty years. Like the mighty Mississippi River, David’s musical journey rocks n’ rolls like a cosmic current. Here, his music has taken him from coast to coast and across the pond.
David had an unforgettable run on NBC’s The Voice. There, he met Bill Withers, sang with Smokey Robinson and finished in Third Place! Recently, David has been riding along the rock n roll highway with the Allman Brothers sons.
Come celebrate an evening where dreams and reality mix into music.
Recommended for fans of Dr. John, Ray Lamontagne, Leon Bridges and Amos Lee.

The Beatles Reimagined
2026-05-05 19:00 - 21:00
“known for his (Jeff Perry) hip reimagining of songs.” – Star Tribune

Jazz musicians have covered and reinterpreted songs by The Beatles for the past fifty years. With the Beatles Reimagined show, three of Minnesota’s most prominent guitarists build on this tradition. Here, they display their own “hip retooling” (Star Tribune) of classic songs by the Fab Four. Hear guitarists Tim Sparks, Zacc Harris, and show curator Jeff Perry, with bassist Matt Blake and drummer Bob Johnston. Moreover, the frequent rotation and pairings of the guitarists makes for an exciting, fast-paced show. Also, their imaginative approaches brings you Beatles classics like you’ve never heard them before.
Jeff Perry has been described as “fabulous… one of the Twin Cities’ best” by the Dakota. Furthermore, over many years Perry developed a proven repertoire that includes beloved songs from across the musical and generational spectrum. Jeff Perry performs high-quality music that connects with people from many generations and backgrounds.
Tim Sparks has been redefining the acoustic guitar repertoire for decades. He won the National Fingerpicking Championship in 1993 with a ground-breaking arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. Further, Sparks’s extraordinary ability has garnered an international reputation as one of the most innovative guitarists working today.
Zacc Harris is a Minneapolis-based guitarist, composer, and educator known for his work with Atlantis Quartet and many other groups. A bandleader and recording artist, his projects explore modern jazz, original composition, and creative improvisation. He is on the faculty at MacPhail Center for Music and directs the Dakota Jazz Ensemble.
Recommended for fans of The Beatles.

Jake Shimabukuro
2026-05-04 19:00 - 21:00
“His ability to leap genres and play jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, folk and classical is impressive.” – Downbeat

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Here, he is hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele.” Moreover, Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances. He seamlessly blends elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four. Then he quickly developed a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral. There, this video introduced millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential.
Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborating with an array of legendary artists. For example, Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood. Furthermore, he has performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music.
Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach. There, he frequently performs at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.
Recommended for fans of Keola Beamer, Paula Fuga, Iam Tongi and Tommy Emmanuel.

Isaiah Collier: Collier Plays Coltrane
2026-05-03 19:00 - 21:00
“heir apparent to both the Chicago lineage and the post-Coltrane sax tradition” – New York Times

One of today’s most exciting saxophonists celebrates John Coltrane’s centennial!
Isaiah Collier is a musical virtuoso in the truest sense of the phrase. He began playing saxophone at age eleven, and his intuitive proficiency earned him attention early on. Ever since, his band Isaiah Collier and The Chosen Few has been turning ears.
In 2025 he was featured on NPR’s “Jazz Night in America”, and graced the cover of Downbeat Magazine. Additionally, Chicago Tribune named him 2024’s Jazz Artist of the Year. New York Times selected his album The Almighty as one of the Top Ten Jazz Recordings of 2024. Furthermore, The New York Times 2024 Fall Arts Preview featured him. Downbeat selected him as one of twenty-five for the future in 2024’s Ninetieth Anniversary issue. Also, he won the Rising Star Award in Downbeat Magazine’s critics poll for tenor saxophone (2023), and soprano saxophone (2024). Then, he was named a Steve Jobs Fellow.
There’s a regal, elegant manner to Isaiah’s stage presence: he’s over 6 feet tall, thin, deep brown, with high cheekbones. When not playing, he is patiently waiting. Not contemplating his next move, but listening to the musicians who accompany him, listening to their stories. Here, he explains that he’s never really hearing himself, he’s hearing others play: some people have fire, others have air.
Isaiah Coller’s sound is a dynamic flurry of metaphors, yet he can hold back when necessary. Thus, he plays his influences, which he describes as a “sonic time machine; you can’t really put a time or destination on it.” As far as he where he plans to take his music, Collier says, “I reach backwards, and forwards simultaneously when creating art and what is ahead of me is the past.”
Recommended for fans of John Coltrane, Kamasi Washington, Pharoah Sanders and Wayne Shorter.
📸: Johanna Brinckmann

Al Di Meola: Guitarchitect
2026-05-02 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-02 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-05-01 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-05-01 18:30 - 20:30
VIP Meet & Greet Add-On. Click the links below for tickets!
Al Di Meola: MAY 1 • 4:00pm VIP Meet & Greet
Al Di Meola: MAY 2 • 4:00pm VIP Meet & Greet

“a terrifyingly dexterous electric guitarist… a remarkable acoustic shredder.” – Premier Guitar

Al Di Meola is one of the top guitarists of our time. Here, he has enjoyed a celebrated career that has spanned more than four decades. His fascination with complex rhythmic syncopation, provocative lyrical melodies, and sophisticated harmony are at the heart of his music. Among his myriad critical accolades are multiple Grammys and Grammy nominations. Additionally, twelve awards from polls conducted by Guitar Player magazine, which inducted Di Meola into its Gallery of Greats.
A bona fide guitar hero and prolific composer, Di Meola has created more than thirty albums as a leader. Furthermore, he has collaborated on about a dozen others. These include fusion supergroup Return to Forever (with Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, and Lenny White). Also, the celebrated acoustic Guitar Trio (featuring fellow virtuosos John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía). Further, the Rite of Strings trio (with Clarke and violinist Jean-Luc Ponty). Here, his dazzling technique has made him a hero to fretboard fanatics. However, the depth of Di Meola’s writing, along with the soulfulness and inherent lyricism of his expressive playing, have won him a worldwide fanbase beyond the guitar aficionado set.
Recommended for fans of Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Paco de Lucia and Wayne Shorter.

Leela James: 2BHONEST Tour at Pantages Theatre
2026-05-02 19:30 - 21:30
“burnished Southern soul… lung-busting power” – Rolling Stone

Leela James has carved out a singular space in music where classic soul meets contemporary R&B. She does this with a voice that’s raw, powerful, and unmistakably soul-stirring. She broke out with her debut, 2005’s A Change Is Gonna Come. Since, Leela has earned a reputation for blending deep, emotive storytelling with gritty vocals and timeless grooves. Influenced by legends like Aretha Franklin, Al Green, and Chaka Khan, she channels the spirit of old-school soul while fearlessly pushing musical boundaries.
Early in her career, she was honored by the legendary James Brown, who affectionately coined her “The Goddaughter of Soul.” There, he recognized her authentic voice and powerful connection to the roots of the genre.
Ms. James has gone on to record and release seven LPs, delivering seven Top Twenty R&B radio singles. These include two Number One tracks on the Billboard charts. Her 2021 single “Complicated” topped the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart for three consecutive weeks. Thus, this solidified her reputation as a force in contemporary soul.
Her beloved ballad, 2022’s “Fall For You” is considered a modern classic and was certified Gold, surpassing 500,000 units sold. Over the years, her music has become synonymous with passion, authenticity, and emotional honesty. Here, this includes hits like “Don’t Want You Back” and “Say That” featuring Anthony Hamilton.
In 2014, Leela won The Soul Train Certified Award. Then in 2021, she garnered an NAACP Image Award nomination for Best R&B Collaboration. She earned another NAACP nomination in 2025 for her powerful single “Lookat Whatcha Done Now” featuring Kenyon Dixon. There, this further cemented her role as a vital and enduring voice in modern soul.
Recommended for fans of Lalah Hathaway, Eric Roberson, Alicia Keys and Jill Scott.

VIP Event: Al Di Meola: Guitarchitect
2026-05-02 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-01 16:00 - 17:00
Click the links below for show tickets!
Al Di Meola: MAY 1 • 6:30pm performance
Al Di Meola: MAY 1 • 9:00pm performance
Al Di Meola: MAY 2 • 6:30pm performance
Al Di Meola: MAY 2 • 9:00pm performance

Upgrade your evening with an exclusive VIP Meet & Greet experience with Al Di Meola. This limited opportunity offers fans an intimate behind-the-scenes look before the show begins.
Invitation to pre-show experience with Al Di Meola, including:

Pre-show soundcheck
Pre-show meet & greet with Al Di Meola

IMPORTANT: This is not a ticket to the show.

“a terrifyingly dexterous electric guitarist… a remarkable acoustic shredder.” – Premier Guitar

Al Di Meola is one of the top guitarists of our time. Here, he has enjoyed a celebrated career that has spanned more than four decades. His fascination with complex rhythmic syncopation, provocative lyrical melodies, and sophisticated harmony are at the heart of his music. Among his myriad critical accolades are multiple Grammys and Grammy nominations. Additionally, twelve awards from polls conducted by Guitar Player magazine, which inducted Di Meola into its Gallery of Greats.
A bona fide guitar hero and prolific composer, Di Meola has created more than thirty albums as a leader. Furthermore, he has collaborated on about a dozen others. These include fusion supergroup Return to Forever (with Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, and Lenny White). Also, the celebrated acoustic Guitar Trio (featuring fellow virtuosos John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía). Further, the Rite of Strings trio (with Clarke and violinist Jean-Luc Ponty). Here, his dazzling technique has made him a hero to fretboard fanatics. However, the depth of Di Meola’s writing, along with the soulfulness and inherent lyricism of his expressive playing, have won him a worldwide fanbase beyond the guitar aficionado set.
Recommended for fans of Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Paco de Lucia and Wayne Shorter.

Paul Thorn
2026-04-30 19:00 - 21:00
“More of a revival than a concert.” – KDHX

When it comes to songwriting, less is more, and simplicity is strength. Just ask Paul Thorn. Here, he has spent three decades turning soulful grooves and small syllables into songs that pack a big wallop. Maybe he learned the power of minimalism from his years as a pro boxer; maybe it just comes naturally. But whether he’s aiming for heads, hearts, hips or the occasional funny bone, he always hits his target. Further, he somehow manages to condense large nuggets of wisdom into tight little mantras. The kind embroiderers stitched onto pillows before internet memes existed.
Thorn’s new album, 2025’s Life is Just A Vapor, contains some beauties. “Life is a vapor, let’s live it while we can”. “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do” (from “Tough Times Don’t Last”). “Any mountain up ahead is just a hill” (from “Old Melodies”). Here, there are words of advice, comfort, support, encouragement, often meant to uplift, especially in times of struggle.
“I like for people to be touched by music and get something from it. Something that they can take with them throughout the day,” Thorn says. “Every song on this album, there’s a message in it of some sort about how to live life.”
American Blues Scene writer Don Wilcock calls Thorn “an everyman (who) addresses things we all think about. But few can articulate with the kind of candor, humor and folksy truth that immediately endear him to almost everyone lucky enough to hear his music.”
Recommended for fans of Robert Earl Keen, Rosanne Cash, The Mavericks and Todd Snider.
📸: Jeff Fasano

Joey Alexander
2026-04-29 19:00 - 21:00
“seemingly limitless technique… dazzling” – NPR

Joey Alexander is one of the most exciting voices in contemporary jazz. He is a Grammy-nominated jazz pianist and composer from Bali, Indonesia. He has released seven acclaimed albums, and performed at the White House, Carnegie Hall, and the Grammy Awards.
Alexander burst onto the global jazz scene in 2015 with his debut album My Favorite Things. Since then, he has released seven albums, earning widespread acclaim and three Grammy Award nominations. There, My Favorite Things was nominated for Best Instrumental Album, and he also earned Best Jazz Solo noms for “Giant Steps” and “Countdown.”
His albums My Favorite Things and Countdown both reached Number One on the Billboard Jazz Charts, while Eclipse climbed to Number Three.
Joey has performed for President Barack Obama at the White House and President Bill Clinton at the Arthur Ashe Learning Center Gala. Additionally, he has appeared at the Grammys, The Grand Ole Opry, the Apollo Theatre and Carnegie Hall. Furthermore, he performs at major jazz festivals, clubs, and concert halls worldwide.
TV show 60 Minutes has profiled him, and The New York Times has featured him. Here, this solidifies his reputation as a prodigious talent and a leading figure in modern jazz.
Recommended for fans of McCoy Tyner, Ahmad Jamal, Brad Mehldau and Keith Jarrett.

Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet
2026-04-28 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:30
“A pianist of imperial command, possessed of a dazzling, deceptively casual virtuosity” – New York Times

Chucho Valdes, piano
Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, drums
Armando Gola, bass
Roberto Vizcaino Jr., percussion
Cuban pianist, composer, and arranger Chucho Valdés is the most influential figure in modern Afro-Cuban jazz. Here, in a rich career spanning sixty years, he has won seven Grammy and seven Latin Grammy Awards. Moreover, Chucho pushes boundaries in pursuit of new expressions in Afro-Cuban music. Additionally, his influence in the genre is immeasurable, establishing the standard by which younger generations create their own.
Chucho received musical education through formal studies and countless nights on the best stages in Cuba. There, he performed with his father, Bebo Valdés, and his orchestra Sabor de Cuba, and with the seminal Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna. Chucho is acclaimed as the founder, pianist, and main composer and arranger of Irakere, a landmark ensemble in Cuban music. Also, Chucho led Irakere for more than thirty years, but since 2005 he has focused on his personal career. Here, he showcases his piano prowess with small ensembles, like the Afro-Cuban Messengers, Jazz Batá, and his acclaimed Royal Quartet.
Chucho has been named an NEA Jazz Master. Additionally, he earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. Also, he was inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, and received a DC Jazz Festival Lifetime Achievement Award. There, he joined an illustrious list that includes Kenny Barron, James Moody, Ellis Marsalis, George Wein, and Dave Brubeck.
Valdés is a restless visionary forever evolving Afro-Cuban music. Further, he is as creative and playful as ever on his Grammy-nominated, Latin Grammy-winning release, 2024’s Cuba & Beyond.
Recommended for fans of Arturo Sandoval, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Alfredo Rodriguez and Nachito Herrera.

Julius Rodriguez
2026-04-27 19:00 - 21:00
“tremendous sense of harmony and virtuosity” – New York Times

Julius Rodriguez is an American jazz pianist, composer, and rising star in the vibrant alternative jazz scene. There, Rodriguez is known for his soulful sound and dynamic playing. He blends a deep understanding of traditional jazz with modern influences, creating a distinctive voice that resonates across genres. His music effortlessly merges elements of jazz, funk, and soul, capturing the essence of both old-school and contemporary styles.
Born and raised in New York, Rodriguez began his musical journey at an early age. Furthermore, he studied piano and drums, developing a love for jazz through the city’s rich musical history. He made a name for himself at eleven years old in the vibrant West Village jazz club scene. Later, he honed his craft at the Juilliard School of Music, where he further shaped his sound and refined his improvisational skills.
Rodriguez’s artistry extends beyond his musicianship. As a composer and bandleader, he brings a unique energy to every performance, seamlessly navigating between melodic inventiveness and intricate rhythms. His debut album, Let Sound Tell All, showcased his ability to craft intricate compositions that push the boundaries of jazz. His most recent album, Evergreen, further demonstrates his growth as an artist. Here, he blends rich, complex arrangements with a deep sense of emotion, continuing to push the boundaries of the genre.
Rodriguez continues to establish himself as one of the most promising voices in contemporary alternative jazz. His work as a collaborator is equally impressive. He has worked with Meshell Ndegeocello, Lianne La Havas, Remi Wolf, Kurt Elling, and Chris Botti. Also, A$AP Rocky, Cautious Clay, and Madison McFerrin. With impeccable technique, musicality, and vision, Julius Rodriguez is poised to become one of the defining voices of his generation.
Recommended for fans of Gerald Clayton, Immanuel Wilkins, Jon Batiste and Julian Lage.

The Wailers
2026-04-26 20:30 - 22:30, 2026-04-26 18:00 - 20:00
“pure positive vibes… vibrant, relevant, and revolutionary” – Broadway World

The Wailers emerged as a Jamaican ska, rocksteady and reggae band. They are hailed for hits like “Simmer Down”, “Trenchtown Rock”, “Nice Time”, “War”, “Stir It Up” and “Get Up, Stand Up”.
They released four albums before signing to Island Records in 1972. Two more albums were created before Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer left the band in 1974. Then, Bob Marley carried on with a new line-up.
After the death of Marley in 1981, the Wailers continued, led by Aston Barret. The band continued to play a heavy worldwide touring schedule and recorded with several singers. In 1989, Aston Barrett released the album I.D. and continued using the Wailers name when collaborating with other artists.
Under the guidance of Aston Barrett Jr, son of the legendary “Familyman”, The Wailers continue to preserve the legacy of their iconic sound. Their culture-defining music, embodying the spirit of the 70s reggae movement, has left an indelible mark on the industry.
In 2022, The Wailers welcomed a new vocalist, Mitchell Brunings. Here, he adds even more dynamic energy to their already electrifying live shows. Brunings is a talented vocalist who has made a name for himself with his soulful voice and powerful stage presence. Moreover, The Wailers continue to captivate audiences with their unique brand of reggae. There, they blend the sounds of the past with a fresh, contemporary flair. Brunning’s addition to the band has been widely praised by fans and music critics alike. Here, this solidifies The Wailers’ status as one of the most exciting live acts in the world.
Experience the magic of their timeless classics and incredible cuts from Bob Marley’s vast repertoire in a set that is truly unforgettable.
Recommended for fans of Bob Marley, Toots and The Maytals, John Holt and Steel Pulse.

Private Event
2026-04-25 00:00 - 23:59
We are booked on APR 25 for a private event. BOOK YOUR EVENT HERE:

Black Violin: Full Circle Tour
2026-04-24 21:00 - 23:00, 2026-04-24 18:30 - 20:30
VIP Meet & Greet Add-On. Click the links below for tickets!
APR 23
APR 24

“fusion of classical, hip-hop, blues, and R&B” – Glide

Step into Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour! Here, Grammy-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus redefine the possibilities of music by merging classical depth with hip-hop’s pulse. Also, this tour captures the essence of returning to where it all began—transformed and reimagined. Each powerful performance invites audiences to reflect on their own journeys, discovering that even as we evolve, we’re often drawn back to our roots with renewed purpose.
From high school orchestra classmates to groundbreaking artists, Black Violin’s path reflects resilience, creativity, and the courage to challenge expectations. Furthermore, their Black Violin Foundation reaches over 100,000 students each year, building a legacy that transcends the stage. Join them for an unforgettable night that celebrates growth, music, and the beauty of coming full circle.
The members of Black Violin met on the first day of orchestra class in 1996. There, they both attended Dillard High School of the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale. (Baptiste originally wanted to play saxophone in the band. However, the orchestra teacher assigned him to his class after winning a golf bet with the band instructor.) Classically trained by day, they faithfully put on their headphones and listened to the hottest rap records each night. Then, after attending different colleges, they reconvened, moved into an apartment together, and started trying to produce other musicians.
They developed an act covering hip-hop songs on their violins, which became popular in local clubs. Two years after sending in a tape to Showtime at the Apollo, the show invited to appear— which they won, and kept winning. Since then, they’ve worked with Alicia Keys, Alessia Cara, 2 Chainz, Lil Wayne, Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park), and more.
Recommended for fans of 2Cellos, Lindsey Stirling, The String Queens and Damien Escobar.
