Hartford Jazz Society

Preservation Hall Jazz Band
2025-11-30 20:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Infinity Hall – Hartford, 32 Front Street, Hartford, CT, 06103
Celebrate the season as the Preservation Hall Jazz Band returns with the Creole Christmas concert series. Join as the band performs New Orleans classics as well as some of our best-loved holiday selections with a twist.

Dr. G’s Jazz Brunch
2025-11-30 12:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-16 12:00 - 15:00 | Quattro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar, 14 Water Street, Guilford, CT
Dr. G’s Jazz Brunch held on the 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays from 12pm (noon) until 3pm at Quattro’s Italian Restaurant:

All events will also include jazz masters Jeff Fuller on bass and Barry Ries on drums &/or trumpet. “Dr. G” will provide guitar accompaniment.

Mike Clark Quartet
2025-11-29 20:00 - 22:30 | Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, United States
Craig Handy – Saxophone
Mike LeDonne – Piano
Nat Reeves – Bass
Mike Clark – Drums
Mike Clark gained worldwide recognition as one of America’s foremost jazz and funk drummers while playing with Herbie Hancock’s group in the early 1970s. Mike became known as a major innovator through his incisive playing on Hancock’s Thrust album, which garnered him an international cult following.
Mike has performed with jazz greats such as Herbie Hancock, Chet Baker, Tony Bennett, Wayne Shorter, Joe Henderson, Bobby Hutcherson, Woody Shaw, Larry Coryell, Jack Wilkins, Wallace Roney, Geri Allen, Billy Childs, James Genus, Bob Hurst, Chris Potter, Onaje Allan Gumbs, Bobby McFerrin, Al Jarreau, Dave Liebman, Nat Adderly, Oscar Brown Jr., Bill Doggett, Mose Allison, Maxine Brown, Gil Evans and his orchestra, and did a stint with Brand X, the acclaimed British fusion band, founded by Phil Collins. He has performed throughout the world at all the major jazz venues and festivals.
Featured in Downbeat, Musician, International Musician & Recording World, Modern Drummer, Jazz Times, Guitar Player, Jazz Is and numerous jazz history and method books, Mike is a former faculty member of Drummers Collective, and is a popular and busy clinician around the country. His book Funk Drumming: Innovative Grooves & Advanced Concepts was published last year by Hal Leonard and is a best seller.
Called “the most sampled drummer in hip hop,” Mike’s beats have been used on tracks by musicians as diverse as NWA, Grandmaster Flash, Britney Spears, Prince and many others.
His numerous recording credits include albums with Herbie Hancock, the Headhunters, Brand X, Eddie Henderson, Jack Wilkins, Mark Puricelli, Mike Wolff, and Alien Army, a group led by guitar great Jack Wilkins. As a bandleader, his release Give The Drummer Some was very enthusiastically received, earning a rare four and a half stars in Downbeat, as was The Funk Stops Here, a joint effort with Hancock alumni Paul Jackson. In 2001, his solo CD, Actual Proof met with critical acclaim, as did the 2003 acoustic jazz release, Summertime, featuring Chris Potter and Billy Childs, which spent many weeks in the top ten charts.
Other efforts included a compilation of his legendary, innovative funk beat samples, Mike Clark’s The Headhunter, a re-release of the widely acclaimed Thrust album, and, in 1998, The Return Of The Headhunters, featuring Herbie Hancock. Next came Herbie Hancock’s Box Set, featuring Headhunters classics “Actual Proof” and “Butterfly,” from Thrust, a few choice cuts from Manchild, and also some historical tracks from the classic Flood, previously only available in Japan. The Headhunters’ newest effort, Evolution/Revolution, released in 2003, featured the latest Headhunter configuration, with original founding members Mike, Bill Summers and Paul Jackson, joined by Donald Harrison, Victor Atkins (Los Hombres Caliente), and Nicholas Payton.
Of his latest endeavor, a recording as a bandleader with Christian MacBride, Donald Harrison, Patrice Rushen, Jed Levy and Christian Scott, produced by Talking House Productions, Mike said it promises to be “some of the most exciting music I’ve ever been involved with.” He’s also featured on Mike Wolff’s latest recording Love And Destruction, and just got out of the studio with country blues legend Delbert McClinton.
His band Prescription Renewal, which debuted in the winter of 2000, electrified audiences across the country with an eclectic core of cross generational multi talents such as Charlie Hunter, Fred Wesley, Skerik, Robert Walter, and DJ Logic, and always featured stellar special guests such as George Porter Jr. of Funky Meters’ fame, Kyle Hollingsworth of String Cheese Incident, Les Claypool, Will Bernard, Larry Goldings and fellow Headhunters alumni, Bill Summers, and proved a hit on the thriving young jam band scene. Touring concurrently that year and the next was the Roots Funk All Stars, another hot ad hoc association that married Mike with James Brown trombonist Fred Wesley, former Headhunter cohort and funk bassist legend Paul Jackson, Dr. Lonnie Smith and Robben Ford. In 2004 he teamed up for a series of gigs with fellow drumming legend Lenny White in a two drummer powerhouse band called New Brew featuring music inspired by Miles Davis’ landmark recording Bitches Brew.
Mike is currently busy touring with his own Prescription Organ Trio / Duo, featuring Jerry Z, doing clinics and performing at clubs and concerts nationwide. He’s also a regular in pianist Mike Wolff’s band, Impure Thoughts and continues to do Headhunters’ projects around the world. Mike just returned from the annual PASIC convention in Austin, TX where he performed with fellow drummer Jim Payne to an enthusiastic full house. In 2007, he has tours booked throughout Europe, South America, South Africa and Russia.
Mike’s work continues to influence successive generations of drummers since his explosive arrival on the music scene with Herbie Hancock and the Headhunters.

Bob Ahern Quartet
2025-11-29 18:00 - 21:00 | Lighthouse Inn, 6 Guthrie Pl, New London, CT
The Bob Ahern Quartet featuring Jazz drummer Bob Ahern will be performing the last Saturday of every month for 2025 at the legendary Lighthouse Inn in New London. Each month, Bob features a different Jazz celebrity. Great jazz venue and restaurant.

Jazz Jam at Cafe Nine
2025-11-29 16:00 - 19:00, 2025-11-22 16:00 - 19:00 | CT
Every Saturday, 4-7

Steve Davis Quintet Ft Abena Koomson-Davis
2025-11-28 20:00 - 22:30 | Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, United States
Steve Davis – Trombone
Abena Koomson-Davis – Vocals
Rick Germanson – Piano
Matt Dwonszyk – Bass
Jonathan Barber – Drums

Steve Davis “Stevie-D” nickname given to him by the late Jackie McLean
Born in Worcester, MA in 1967, Davis was raised in Binghamton, NY and graduated in 1989 from Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute. It was with McLean’s guidance and recommendation that Davis landed his ﬁrst major performance with Art Blakey in NYC. In 98’ Steve winning the TDWR (Rising Star) Trombone Category and later named consecutively as Trombonist of the Year by The JJA – (2010-2013). Widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. His lyrical, hard-swinging style ﬁrst gained him broad recognition. Steve has released 20 albums including: Think Ahead (2017), Say When (2015), For Real & Gettin’ It Done (2014) featuring his longtime musical colleagues Larry Willis and Nat Reeves along with drummer Billy Williams, saxophonists Abraham Burton (For Real), Mike DiRubbo and trumpeter Josh Bruneau (Gettin’ It Done), in addition to over 100 recordings with names including: Chick Corea, Freddie Hubbard, Horace Silver, Cedar Walton, Hank Jones. In 2018 his original composition “Optimism” was included in Christian McBride’s Grammy Award winning album “Bringin’ it”. Steve Davis’ latest release with his sextet “Correlations” (label: Smoke Sessions Records) Steve features Joshua Bruneau, trumpet; Wayne Escoﬀery, tenor saxophone; Xavier Davis, piano; Dexron Dougles, bass; Johnathan Barber, drums; Caro Baptista, percussion on “Batista Revenge”.
He leads his groups All-Star quartet Larry Willis (Alone Together/Mapleshade 2006) and his exciting, Outlook Quintet featuring rising stars Mike DiRubbo (alto sax), David Bryant (piano), Dezron Douglas (bass) and Eric McPherson (drums) regularly performing at Smoke and Smalls Jazz Club (NYC); The Greater Hartford Jazz Festival, Baltimore’s Eubie Blake Center, The Richmond Jazz Society, Hartford Jazz Society.
Steve performs internationally with Dizzy Gillespie’s All-Stars, Jimmy Heath, Ron Carter. Chick Corea & My Spanish Heart Band, Origin, he has appeared at The Jimmy Fallon with Steve Wonder, at the White House Tribute to Ray Charles (PBS) and records with the collective unit One For All (Eric Alexander, Jim Rotondi, David Hazeltine, John Webber and Joe Farnsworth), Larry Willis, Harold Malberen.Widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. His lyrical, hard-swinging style first gained him broad recognition.

Firehouse 12 Weekly Concert Series
2025-11-28 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-21 08:00 - 17:00 | Firehouse 12, 45 Crown Street, New Haven, CT
November 14: Otherlands Trio
November 21: Jon Irabagon Quintet
December 5: Matt Mitchell & Sara Serpa
December 12: Tyshawn Sorey Trio
December 19: Ingrid Laubrock’s Grammy Season + + DoYeon Kim
Tickets are $20 for the 8:30pm performance and $15 for 10:00pm. All tickets can be purchased online or, subject to availability, at the box office on the night of the show.

Al Fenton Big Band directed by Kathy Neri
2025-11-27 18:15 - 20:15 | The Carousel Museum, 95 Riverside Avenue, Bristol, CT
Enjoy the vibrant and smooth sounds of the 18 piece Al Fenton Big Band. Their open rehearsal gives you a behind-the scenes look at their musical process, followed by a performance that will have you dancing on the beautiful wooden dance floor.
BYOB: Enhance your evening by bringing your own beverages and food. Relax and enjoy a lively night out with great music and company. While you are at The Carousel Museum, take some time to visit the museum’s exhibits before or after the rehearsal to discover the rich history and artistry of carousel.
Thursday, March 27th
Thursday, April 24
Thursday, May 29
Thursday, June 26
Thursday, July 31
Thursday, August 28
Thursday, September 25th
Thursday, October 30th (Boo Bash – Costumes Encouraged)
Thursday, November 20
Thursday, December 18th Holiday Spectacular
Admission Tickets available at the door.
Members: Free!
Adults $15
Seniors/Students $10
Kids 12 and Under: Free

Black Eyed Sally’s Jazz Jam
2025-11-26 19:00 - 22:00 | Black-eyed Sally’s Southern Kitchen & Bar, 350 Asylum St., Hartford, CT, 06103
Located in downtown Hartford, for the aficionado, musician, or the curious first-timer, Black Eyed Sally’s Jazz Jams are the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, these jam sessions will strike a chord as you hear what our local talent has to offer, with regular special appearances by big city jazz names. Experience the cool original music of the jam session while you enjoy the hot fierce cookin’ of Hartford’s favorite BBQ joint.
There will be a featured jazz ensemble followed by an open jam session. Bring your axe and be ready to jam!
The music begins at 7:00 PM, jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge most nights, under 21’s welcome.
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society and Neefjazz Entertainment

Michael Palin's Other Orchestra
2025-11-25 20:00 - 22:00, 2025-11-18 20:00 - 22:00 | The Hungry Tiger, 120 Charter Oak Street, Manchester, CT
It’s a funky Big Band thang, a large jazz ensemble that rocks the house. Playing music from Tower of Power, Frank Zappa, The Brecker Brothers, Jaco Pastorious, Steely Dan, The Yellow Jackets, Bob Berg…..You’ll want to see them again and again!
https://www.facebook.com/OtherOrchestra/

Jazz at Cafe Nine
2025-11-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Cafe Nine, 250 State Street, New Haven, CT, 06510
Presented by New Haven Jazz Underground on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday every month.

New Haven Improvisers Collective (workshop)
2025-11-24 19:30 - 22:30 | Ely Center of Contemporary Art, 51 Trumbull St, New Haven, CT
Last Monday of every month, 7:30-10:30 PM
The New Haven Improvisers Collective is dedicated to bringing improvised music to New Haven. Bring your instrument to the next NHIC improvised music workshop. Visit the website below and send your contact information to info@nhic-music.org
https://www.nhic-music.org

Tuxedo Junction
2025-11-24 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-11-17 19:00 - 20:30 | Guilford VFW Post 9666, 104 Mill Road, Guilford, CT
For over 24 years, hosting public rehearsals every Monday night, now at Guilford VFW Post 7666.
Tuxedo Junction was started in 1989 by Pete Jacobs (trumpet) and Will Tayler (drums), WWII veterans who set up an 8-piece Dixieland jazz band in the basement of the senior citizens center in Madison, CT. Pat soon joined on piano.
The band quickly grew into a full swing band as Pete added big band arrangements and people joined: everyone from high school students to retired music teachers started to fill out the sections. Tuxedo Junction moved its practice home to the Westbrook Elks briefly, and in 1997 Paul James suggested that Bill’s Seafood restaurant in Westbrook would be a great place to share the sounds of swing. After more than 20 years of Monday nights at Bill’s, originally outnumbering the customers and staff before turning it into the most happening place on the Shoreline for a Monday night, we moved outside to Town Greens, Overlook Farm in Killingworth, and the Guilford VFW.
Tuxedo Junction plays original big band arrangements from the 30’s through the present, including charts from Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Sy Zentner, Buddy Rich, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and more. We focus on danceable tunes from swing to waltz, foxtrot to two-step, Latin and even some rock. The band has weekly open rehearsals at local venues on the Eastern Connecticut shoreline. The public is invited to dance and listen in at no charge. We are also available for hire at public and private events throughout Connecticut.
After more than 1,001 performances, Tuxedo Junction has become a musical success story. We are now eighteen passionate musicians, men and women of all ages, following the great jazz tradition and warmly welcoming visiting jazz musicians to sit in.

Donald Vega Sextet
2025-11-23 20:00 - 22:30 | Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, United States
Donald Vega – Piano
David DeJesus – Alto Saxophone
Brandon Lee – Trumpet
Raul Reyes – Bass
Carlos “Carly” Maldonado – Percussion
Jerome Jennings – Drums
Grammy®-nominated pianist and composer Donald Vega brings his new project, Legacy, to the stage — celebrating the power of mentorship and the timeless ways communities pass stories and traditions from one generation to the next. Funded in part by Chamber Music America’s New Jazz Works grant, Legacy is music in conversation with time itself: swinging tunes, Latin grooves, and unforgettable melodies that honor jazz’s living tradition while reaching for the future. Experience an evening of storytelling through sound with one of today’s most compelling jazz voices.
Grammy® nominated artist Donald Vega is a luminary on the piano and unites audiences around the world through his melodic storytelling and the transformative power of music. Vega was named a Guggenheim Fellow in 2023 for composition, and through the generous support of the Guggenheim Memorial Foundation completed and released his album As I Travel, which earned a Grammy® nomination for Best Latin Jazz Album.
Donald Vega was trained classically in piano in his native Nicaragua. He emigrated to the United States at age 14 and found a musical home with the Colburn School of Performing Arts (CSPA). He began his studies there in classical piano with Teresa de Jong Pombo and Dr. Louise Lepley. Vega began learning the language of jazz from mentor Billy Higgins at The World Stage and continued at CSPA with Jeffrey Lavner, then later with bassist John Clayton at the University of Southern California. During his time in Los Angeles Donald was mentored by and performed with the celebrated conguero Francisco Aguabella as well as notable bassist Al McKibbon. He went on to graduate from Manhattan School of Music and The Juilliard School where he studied with piano great Kenny Barron, Phil Markowitz and Gary Dial.
Vega currently performs internationally as the pianist for world renowned bassist Ron Carter with whom he has recorded several albums. Mr. Vega is also a professor at The Juilliard School and Hofstra University and sits on the board of BackCountry Jazz, a non-profit organization which provides music education programs and performances to underprivileged youth.
Vega’s debut album, Tomorrows, was released in 2008 to rave reviews. In his sophomore album, Spiritual Nature (Resonance Records, 2012), he was joined by the regal rhythm tandem of bassist Christian McBride and drummer Lewis Nash. Vega teamed up again with Lewis Nash on his third album, With Respect to Monty, (Resonance Records, 2015) along with Hassan Shakur, the great bassist and former Monty Alexander band member, and long-time friend and grammy nominated artist, Anthony Wilson on guitar. Donald recently released his latest album, As I Travel, with Lewis Nash on drums and John Patitucci on bass and featuring Luisito Quintero on percussion. Downbeat called it a “recording with high-caliber vision and carefully crafted compositions…” and All About Jazz called it a “captivating musical memoir”.

Jon Irabagon Quartet w/Nate Wooley
2025-11-23 19:30 - 21:30 | Community Music School of Springfield, 127 State St., Springfield, MA
Jon Irabagon (reeds), Matt Mitchell (piano), Chris Lightcap (bass), Dan Weiss (drums), Nate Wooley (trumpet)
First-generation Filipino-American Jon Irabagon (b. 1978, Chicago) has been influenced by the self-empowering and individualistic philosophies and aesthetic of the great AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians) ensembles as well as the historic world-class tenor saxophone lineage from his hometown. Equally adept at composing for rising stars in new music and the most intricate modern jazz ensemble, Irabagon builds on this foundation by adding modern classical and late-period John Coltrane to his compositional base, focusing primarily on mixed chamber ensembles to take advantage of hand-chosen musicians’ voices and attitudes.
After earning a Bachelor of Music from DePaul University, Irabagon continued his education by earning a Master of Arts from the Manhattan School of Music and completing post-graduate studies in the jazz program at Juilliard, where he received an Artist Diploma. However, Irabagon’s accomplishments do not end with his education. Irabagon was also the winner of the 2008 Thelonious Monk Saxophone Competition, winner of the Rising Star award in Downbeat Magazine for both alto and tenor saxophones, and the recipient of a Philippine Presidential Award, the highest civilian honor an overseas Filipino can receive in commemoration for their contributions to the perception of Filipinos worldwide.
As a member of a minority community who fights against the countless times his voice has been marginalized, Irabagon’s compositions rely on open dialogues with his fellow performers to create a gateway for communication and understanding. This interaction of notated material and strong improvisatory character is essential to Irabagon’s musical vision. As music reporter Nate Chinen notes in his Top Performances of 2015 article, Irabagon’s compositions “are drawn to the play of opposing forces, especially those involving abstraction of form.”
Named one of New York City’s 25 Jazz Icons by Time Out New York, Irabagon composes for his ensemble Outright!, which received a 5-star Masterpiece review in Downbeat Magazine for Unhinged (2014), as well as the Jon Irabagon Trio, featuring Barry Altschul and Mark Helias, and his new quartet with Matt Mitchell, Chris Lightcap and Dan Weiss. Irabagon has been an integral part of ensembles such as the Dave Douglas Quintet, the Mary Halvorson Quintet, Septet and Octet, Barry Altschul’s 3Dom Factor, Ralph Alessi’s This Against That, Mostly Other People do the Killing and Uri Caine’s Catbird.
Irabagon has been an ensemble and private lesson instructor for all levels at several institutions in the New York City area, including with Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Middle School Jazz Academy, as well as giving saxophone, improvisation, and composition masterclasses on four continents.
In January 2023, Irabagon joined the University of Illinois Chicago faculty, teaching jazz saxophone, direct combos, and courses in jazz history.
Irabagon’s main focus is building his own compositional voice, as evidenced by receiving grants and commissions like The Stone at National Sawdust Commissioning Series, an Artists at Albatross Reach compositional residency, the Shifting Foundation, two French American Cultural Exchange grants, a Chamber Music America New Jazz Works grant, a South Arts Jazz Road touring grant, and an upcoming USArtists International grant.
Irabagon currently runs his own imprint, Irabbagast Records, to release his own uncategorizable works as well as other cutting-edge, creative artists.

Instantiations Monthly Music Series at Real Art Ways
2025-11-23 14:30 - 16:30 | Real Art Ways, 56 Arbor St, Hartford, CT
Instantiations, formerly known as Improvisations Now, is a monthly series of concerts conceived and programmed by Joe Morris (guitarist, bassist, improviser, composer-wearer of many hats). Joe invites dynamic, innovative musicians – important members of the global improvised music scene – and performs with them. The music is completely improvised. Every concert, every instance is a unique experience.
Sunday, 11/23, 2:30 pm: Rob Brown-alto saxophone, flute; Anna Webber-tenor saxophone, flute; Matthew Rousseau-drums; Joe Morris-bass, compositions
Sunday, 12/14, 2:30 pm: Brad Barrett-cello; Beth Ann Jones-bass; Joe Morris-guitar
Sunday, 1/18, 2:30 pm: Hidemi Akaiwa-piano; Hery Paz-tenor saxophone, clarinet, flute; Joe Morris-bass
Sunday, 2/15, 2:30 pm: Adam Matlock-accordion; Diane Buettner-bass clarinet, clarinet; Yoona Kim-Ajaeng; Joe Morris-guitar
Sunday, 3/15, 2:30 pm: L. Mixashawn Rozie-tenor, soprano saxophone, mandolin, voice; Michael Larocca-drums; Joe Morris-bass
Sunday, 4/12, 2:30 pm: Melanie Dyer-viola; Solomon Caldwell-bass; Joe Morris-guitar
Sunday, 5/3, 2:30 pm: Selendis Sebastian Alexander Johnson-vibraphone; Lemuel Marc-trumpet; Joe Morris-bass
General Admission $15 / Members $12 / Students $8
Join us on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest!

Ben Wolfe Quartet
2025-11-22 20:00 - 22:30 | Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, United States
John Ellis – Saxophone
Joel Ross – Vibes
Ben Wolfe – Bass
Aaron Kimmel – Drums
New York bassist/composer and bandleader Ben Wolfe’s music has been described as “Mingus and Miles Davis meet Bartok and Bernard Herrmann” (Ben Ratliff – The New York Times). With acclaim by some of the jazz world’s most respected critics, Wolfe continues to produce works that draw top-flight reviews from fans and jazz journalists alike.
Ben’s 2024 release The Understated is his eleventh as leader and features all original compositions. Nicole Glover who plays tenor saxophone on the record says in her liner notes “This record succeeds in bringing Ben’s beautiful music to life through extremely conscientious group playing. Nothing is forced or pushed; everything that needs to be stated is stated.”
“The Understated is a beauty.” (Carlo Wolff, Downbeat)
In many ways, The Understated is a continuation of his previous release the critically acclaimed Unjust. “Unjust is a brilliant work of melodic ensemble writing and superb playing by a stellar intergenerational crew.” (Bill Milkowski, Downbeat).
Its balance – of elegance and propulsion, of accessibility and edge – distinguishes it from most conventional jazz. Its details reward repeated listening.” (Larry Blumenfeld, Wall Street Journal)
There is no doubt that after decades as one of the most sought-after bassists in jazz, performing with top names such as Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr., Diana Krall and many others, award-winning composer and bandleader Ben Wolfe is clear about his creative direction…
“Much of the music I’ve composed; particularly the music that includes strings, I think of as chamber music within a jazz context.”
An award-winning composer, Ben is a two-time recipient of Chamber Music America’s New Works: Creation and Presentation Program Grant through the Doris Duke Foundation. First received in 2004, Ben was able to use this funding to compose his extended work “Contradiction: Music for Sextet.” He received the grant in 2020 and composed “Nonet”. Both of these extended works have been recorded for future release.
Wolfe has distinguished himself through a significant catalogue of original music, including over one hundred songs across eleven albums, several extended works, and the film score for Matthew Modine’s 2008 short I Think I Thought. The New York Sun hailed his work on this film as, “a standout music score.”
Wolfe’s early career included Grammy award-winning, platinum-selling collaborations with both Harry Connick Jr. and Diana Krall, including Harry’s 1988 soundtrack album When Harry Met Sally, and Diana’s 1999 release When I Look in Your Eyes. He appeared alongside both artists on numerous world tours.
Wolfe’s ongoing and close association with Wynton Marsalis; during which Marsalis recorded as a guest on two of his albums, has seen Ben appear on a number of Wynton’s releases, and included a stint in the Wynton Marsalis Septet and membership in the Jazz at Lincoln CenteOrchestra (JLCO), where he performed with jazz luminaries such as Joe Henderson, Doc Cheatham, Jon Hendricks, Harry “Sweets” Edison, and Billy Higgins, among many others. Contemporary jazz greats with whom he has also worked and recorded include Branford Marsalis, Orrin Evans, Eric Reed and Benny Green.
Ben Wolfe’s full list of recorded original albums as a leader:
• The Understated, Resident Arts Records (2024)
• Unjust, Resident Arts Records (2023)
• Fatherhood, Resident Arts Records (2019)
• The Whisperer, Posi-Tone (2015)
• From Here I See, MAXJAZZ/Mack Avenue Records (2013)
• Ben Wolfe Quintet: Live at Smalls, SmallsLIVE (2011)
• No Strangers Here, MAXJAZZ/Mack Avenue Records (2008)
• My Kinda Beautiful, Planet Arts Records (2004)
• Murray’s Cadillac, Amosaya Music (2000)
• Bagdad Theater, Mons Records (1997)
• 13 Sketches, Mons Records (1996)
Ben maintains a busy schedule, performing and touring on the international stage. Currently a member of the teaching faculty at The Julliard School in New York City, Ben is helping to shape and mentor the jazz scene’s next generation of outstanding talent.
“Ben Wolfe swings with authority!”– to quote Wynton Marsalis. It can’t be said any better!

Blue Lion Trio
2025-11-22 19:00 - 20:30 | Obodo Serendipity Books, 3588 Main Street, Stratford, CT
Jeff Fuller, bass, Rich Sylvester, drums and David Childs, piano
$10 cover – includes a glass of wine

Isaiah J. Thompson Quartet
2025-11-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, United States
Pianist and composer Isaiah J. Thompson is originally from West Orange, New Jersey. He began studying with pianist Alla Epelbaum at The Calderone School of Music and Bob Mikula from an early age and soon after enrolled in Jazz House Kids and NJPAC Jazz For Teens. He was later admitted to The Juilliard School where he graduated with both his Bachelor’s and Master’s of Music degrees and furthered his education in Christian Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary.
Isaiah joined the John Pizzarelli Trio in 2019 and has performed with other major artists such as, Christian McBride, Steve Turre, Catherine Russell, and Buster Williams. His recording debut was featured on Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Handful of Keys album with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, and he has since released multiple recordings as a leader.
Thompson worked on the Golden Globe nominated soundtrack for the film Motherless Brooklyn, was named a Steinway Artist and has been awarded other accolades including, the 2018 Lincoln Center Emerging Artist Award and second place in the 2018 Thelonious Monk Competition. In 2023 he was named the winner of the American Pianists Awards and the Cole Porter Fellowship in Jazz and in 2024 Thompson joined the Jazz Studies Faculty at The Juilliard School.
As a jazz musician and performer, Isaiah aims to emit love, spirit and respect and convey his faith through his artistry.

Jazz at Three Sheets
2025-11-21 18:00 - 21:00 | Three Sheets, 372 Elm Street, New Haven, CT
New England Jazz Underground presents jazz on the 1st and 3rd Friday every month.

Laroo/Byrd Funky4
2025-11-21 17:30 - 21:30 | The Flying Monkey, 2095 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT
Join us for Laroo/Byrd Funky4, where we bring our signature blend of jazz, funk, and blues “to the max”. Expect soulful improvisations, groovy rhythms, and feel-good vibes that just might move you from your seat to the dance floor if the spirit calls you!

Laroo/Byrd Funky4
2025-11-21 17:30 - 19:30 | The Flying Monkey, 2095 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT

Sean Nelson Jazz Orchestra: Harry James Tribute Ft Joshua Kauffman
2025-11-19 19:30 - 22:00 | Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, United States
Special Guest:
James Kauffman – Trumpet
Saxes
Erik Elligers
Tyler Wilkins
Matt Parker
Josh Thomas
Matt Schmidt
Trombones
Sean Nelson
Leroy Loomer
Vince Yanovitch
Wes Mayhew
Trumpets
Don Clough
Renee McGee
Luke Wingfield
Haneef Nelson
Rhythm
Jen Allen – piano
Gianni Gardner – guitar
Lou Bocciarelli – bass
Nathan Lassell – drums
Joshua Kauffman has deep ties to the music of Harry James. After befriending and playing trumpet for Harry James, Jr, at his home in Texas, he was gifted many items from the estate, including several of Harry’s trumpets and music manuscripts. Joshua has a deep love and reverence for the music of Harry James, and this is evident in his expert performance of this historically important music.Joshua Kauffman, an in-demand performer and educator in the Washington Metropolitan area, can be seen and heard at major venues like The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Capitol One Arena and Blues Alley. He teaches regularly at The National Jazz Workshop and is frequently seen as a guest artist and clinician with colleges and schools throughout the US.
Equally at home in the jazz and classical idioms, Joshua has had the opportunity to share the stage with Doc Severinsen, Hugh Jackman, Randy Brecker, Bobby McFerrin, Arturo Sandoval, Franki Valli and the Four Seasons, Sean Jones, Stefon Harris, Luis Enrique, The Big Apple Circus, Eddie Daniels, Wycliffe Gordon, Alan Baylock, Dennis Mackrel and many others.
He also travels around the United States to perform swing music for national and international events, like The International Lindy Hop Championships, DC Lindy Exchange, Beantown Camp as well as other swing music and dancing events and competitions.
Originally from New Castle, PA, Joshua attended the University of North Texas where he played in the Grammy-nominated One O’Clock Lab Band from 2014-2017, where he held both the solo and lead trumpet chairs. While in the One O’Clock Lab Band, he performed at the inaugural concert of Cancer Blows, Monterey Jazz Festival and traveled to Australia to perform at the Generations in Jazz Festival with famed multi-instrumentalist, James Morrison. He graduated in 2017 magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Music in jazz studies.
Days before graduation, Joshua auditioned and won a position with The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own”, where he holds the first trumpet chair of The U.S. Army Blues, the premiere jazz ensemble of The United States Army.
Joshua has had many great teachers and mentors in his life including Allen Vizzutti, Jay Saunders, Paul Stephens, John Holt, Rodney Booth, Mike Steinel, Dr. Stephen Hawk and others.
Joshua is a Yamaha Performing Artist and exclusively plays GR Mouthpieces.The Sean Nelson Jazz Orchestra is a “full bodied and polished brassy big band” (Jazz Weekly) made up of 17 of the finest musicians in New England. Formed in 2016 as the New London Big Band, for the past nine years they have played monthly for sold out crowds at the Social Bar + Kitchen in New London CT. The band has performed all over the country, including the Kennedy Center (Washington DC), the Birdland Jazz Club (NYC), Monks Jazz Club (Austin TX), and Hallowed Halls (Portland OR). The band has released three albums, the most recent of which, “Don’t Stop Now: the lost music of Thad Jones for Harry James,” reached #29 on the jazz radio charts.
The band’s sound is rooted in the Kansas City swing of Count Basie, “swinging high, hard, and hot” (All About Jazz.) “Nelson…has assembled a youthful, sharp, hip 17-piece ensemble as dedicated as he is to the belief that big band sounds can provide a fine musical experience — one best served up live, where the groove and excitement of the arrangements and instrumental interplay can energize and pack a dance floor across generations.” (The Day of New London)
Sean Nelson is the leader and founder of the band. By day, he is enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he plays trombone with the Coast Guard Band’s concert band and jazz ensembles, serves as staff arranger, and is music director for the Guardians Big Band.
Nelson was music director and arranger for the 2024 National Christmas Tree Lighting with the Coast Guard’s Guardians Big Band, creating over 500 pages of arrangements. This was performed in front of the White House and seen nationally on CBS. Sean was one of two composers that co-created the official song of the Space Force, Semper Supra, which is now part of every Armed Forces Medley. He also composed the official song for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officer corps (one of the eight federal uniformed services). He has won the National Band Association Young Composers Jazz Composition Contest and is a two time winner of Downbeat Magazine’s jazz arranging award. He currently works as the arranger for Sam Houston State University Bearkat Marching Band. Sean’s big band arrangements are published at iJazzmusic.com.
A native of Dallas, Texas, Sean received a Bachelor of Music degree from Sam Houston State University and a Master of Music degree from the University of North Texas. While at North Texas, he was trombonist and composer for the One O’Clock Lab Band and sang with the Jazz Singers I. Sean’s trombone quartet won the International Trombone Association Quartet Contest. He spent his summers and winter breaks playing in house bands on cruise ships for Princess Cruises and Cunard Cruises.
Sean lives in Quaker Hill, Connecticut, with his wife Megan and children Lucinda, Giles, McCoy, and Cab.

Black Eyed Sally’s Jazz Jam - Mentorship V - Tyler Sherman Quartet
2025-11-19 19:00 - 22:00 | Black-eyed Sally’s Southern Kitchen & Bar, 350 Asylum St., Hartford, CT, 06103
Located in downtown Hartford, for the aficionado, musician, or the curious first-timer, Black Eyed Sally’s Jazz Jams are the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, these jam sessions will strike a chord as you hear what our local talent has to offer, with regular special appearances by big city jazz names. Experience the cool original music of the jam session while you enjoy the hot fierce cookin’ of Hartford’s favorite BBQ joint.
After a long hiatus due to the pandemic, regularly scheduled jazz jams have returned to Black Eyed Sally’s every Wednesday. There will be a featured jazz ensemble followed by an open jam session. Bring your axe and be ready to jam!
The music begins at 7:00 PM, jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge most nights, under 21’s welcome.
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society and Neefjazz Entertainment

Java Groove
2025-11-15 20:00 - 23:00 | Griswold Inn, 36 Main Street, Essex, CT
From Sinatra to Swing, Java Groove is a small band with a big sound playing swing, jazz and ballads.
