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The HJS Jazz Calendar lists live jazz events taking place in Connecticut, primarily the Greater Hartford area, as well as central Massachusetts, and jazz festivals in nearby states. Time constraints do not allow individual listing of weekly club events, and the choice of shows listed here is not meant to be all-inclusive. Changes and mistakes can happen, so please use the contacts to verify information before venturing out to a show. HJS encourages jazz enthusiasts everywhere to Support Live Jazz. Send new listings, corrections and comments about this calendar to JazzInCT@yahoo.com. When submitting listings for the calendar, please submit them using the format below, and include relevant links. Listings should be submitted at least two weeks before the event.
WRTC's Jazz Weekly Concert Collective and Regulars Concert Collective
Today's Jazz Birthdays | Jazz News (JazzTimes) | Jazz News (AllAboutJazz.com)

The most precious gift we can offer anyone is our attention. - Thich Nhat Hanh

May, 2013
Friday, May 17, 2013 – 5pm – 7pm – FREE
JMAC’S SUPER BAND (ARTISTS COLLECTIVE YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA & JACKIE MCLEAN INSTITUTE BIG BAND) DIRECTED BY CHRIS CASEY AND RENE’ MCLEAN; “ECLIPSE” CHOREOGRAPHER’S WORKSHOP; AFRICAN CONNECTION PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE; AND HARTT SCHOOL CONCERT JAZZ ENSEMBLE
Hartford Public Library - 500 Main Street – Hartford
Friday, May 17, 2013 - 7pm - $12 in advance / $15 at the door
JOHN BRIGHENTI PIANO/ERIN O'LUANAIGH VOCALS
Trinity-On-Main--69 Main St.--New Britain, CT
Renowned jazz pianist John Brighenti and talented young vocalist Erin O'Luanaigh join forces as the Take Two Jazz Duo presenting their cabaret performance "A Tribute to Miss Peggy Lee." A special homage to Cole Porter on the centenary of his graduation from Yale is included in the program. An evening of sultry swing! Tickets are available at Trinity-On-Main: Call 860 229 2072 or go online www.trinityonmain.org

Friday, May 17, 2013 - 7:30pm - FREE
COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL FACULTY JAZZ CONCERT: Samantha Talmadge-vocals, Andy Sherwood-clarinet, tenor sax, Jake Epstein-alto sax, Kevin Oneil-guitar, Matt McCauley-bass, Tom Briggs-drum set/piano
Centerbrook Meetinghouse - Centerbrook
Friday, May 17, 2013 - 8:30 pm ($18) and 10 pm ($12)
ARMEN DONELIAN TRIO
Firehouse 12 - 45 Crown Street - New Haven
Tickets can be purchased online at http://firehouse12.com or by phone at (203) 785-0468, or in person at the box office beginning at 7 pm. the night of the show (subject to availability).
Saturday, May 18, 2013 – 10am – 1pm - FREE
ARTISTS COLLECTIVE’S MUSIC STUDENT SHOWCASE
Artists Collective - 1200 Albany Avenue (corner of Woodland Street/Jackie McLean Way) - Hartford
Saturday, May 18, 2013 - 2 pm - FREE
KEITH CHASEN QUARTET - Colin Walters - Tenor Sax; Keith Chasen – Piano; Nicholas Trautman – Bass; Steve Jack - Drums
Integrity N Music - 506 Silas Deane Highway (Rear) – Wethersfield - 860-563-4005
Saturday, May 18, 2013 – 8pm - $20 advance general / $25 at the door
“RESURRECTION OF THE SPIRIT” JMAC’S DYNASTY
Artists Collective - 1200 Albany Avenue (corner of Woodland Street/Jackie McLean Way) - Hartford
“Resurrection of the Spirit” JMAC’s Dynasty will feature an all star line-up of much loved contemporaries, alumni and band members that were close to Jackie McLean, spanning his fifty year career: Rene’ McLean, Artistic Director, saxophone, NEA JAZZ MASTER Curtis Fuller, trombone, Gary Bartz, saxophone, Charles Tolliver, trumpet, Ronnie Burrage, drums, Steve Davis, trombone, Nat Reeves, bass, Alan Palmer, piano, Steve Nelson, vibraphone, Josh Evans, trumpet, Neil Clarke, African percussion, and introducing Naima McLean, poet, vocalist, actress from South Africa.
Saturday, May 18, 2013 - 8 pm - $10 Suggested donation
JOE FONDA WITH TWO OF ITALY'S GREATEST JAZZ MUSICIANS
The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts and Cultural Center - 605 Main Street – Middletown
Joe Fonda performs on May 18th with two of Italy's greatest jazz musicians: Carlo Morena on Piano and Michele Salgarello on Drums. This trio plays hard swing jazz with a pinch of European romanticism. "Joe Fonda is one of the most passionate and energetic musicians I've ever hosted” - Anne-Marie. Tickets for all shows available at the door. Door and Cafe/Bookstore open half hour before performance time. 860-347-4957
Sunday, May 19, 2013 – 7pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING’s “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD Release Party
The Whinstone Tavern at Stanley Golf Course - 245 Hartford Road - New Britain
Join Simply Swing as it celebrates the release of its “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD featuring original Swing and Latin dance tunes by musical director Joe LaRosa. With a lineup including vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns (Steve Cohen, Joe Natale, John Cizik, Pete Petkaitis, Frank Nicastro and Leroy Loomer), a dynamic rhythm section (Jim Santucci, Dennis Marolda and Joe LaRosa), Simply Swing specializes in music from the Big Band era. Swing and Ballroom dancers welcome. Call (860) 827-0022 for reservations. See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more info.
Monday, May 20, 2013 - 8 pm - 11 pm - FREE
JAZZ MONDAYS - presented by Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
JOSH EVANS QUARTET
Josh Evans - Trumpet, Alan Palmer - Piano, Nat Reeves - Bass, Eric McPherson - Drums

Black-eyed Sally's - 350 Asylum Street - Downtown Hartford
For the aficionado, or the curious first-timer, Jazz Mondays is the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, Jazz Mondays 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. Jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge unless noted. Under 21s welcome.
Thursday, May 23, 2013 - 7:30pm - $15
MIKE REED’S PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS
United Congregational Church - 300 Appleton St. - Holyoke, MA
Mike Reed’s People Places & Things includes Mike Reed, drums, Greg Ward, alto sax, Tim Haldeman, tenor sax and Jason Roebke, bass. Reed has been part of the vibrant Chicago jazz and improvised music community since 1997. He has performed regularly with local luminaries such as Fred Anderson, Nicole Mitchell, Jeff Parker, Josh Abrams, Jim Baker, and Rob Mazurek, as well as Chicago legends Ira Sullivan, Julian Priester and Art Hoyle. Reed leads two widely acclaimed groups, Loose Assembly and People, Places & Things. Reed was named Chicagoan of the Year for Jazz (2008) by the Chicago Tribune. The 57th annual Downbeat critics poll named him a "Rising Jazz Star", and People, Places & Things as "Rising Jazz Group". Over the course of a decade, Reed has also established himself as a leading producer of musical performances and advocate for the performing arts. He is one of the main organizers for Umbrella Music, presenting weekly jazz and improvised music at various Chicago venues. In 2009, Reed was named Vice Chairman of the venerable Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM). Most notably, Reed is the Director of the renowned Pitchfork Music Festival, drawing over 50,000 people to Chicago over 3 days and featuring today's most cutting edge rock and pop artists. "What's always most distinguished People, Places & Things is the members' high-level rapport,” writes The Chicago Reader. “Saxophonists Greg Ward and Tim Haldeman both have an easy mastery of the stylistic languages of the past and present, and they can egg each other on, finish each other's phrases, and improvise simultaneously without ever getting in each other's way. Reed and bassist Jason Roebke embody Chicago's scrappy, unfussy blue-collar aesthetic in the best ways, giving the music a full-bodied thrust and emotional lift.” Pioneer Valley Jazz Shares concerts are produced by a group of music lovers who have purchased jazz shares. Like farm shares, where stakeholders ensure the success of the farm by pre-paying for food, Pioneer Valley Jazz Share members purchase jazz shares to provide the capital needed to produce concerts with minimal institutional support. Operating under the fiscal sponsorship of The Northampton Center for the Arts, we are a grassroots, all-volunteer organization dedicated to the continued vitality of the music. Shares and single tickets are available at www.jazzshares.org and at the door.
Friday, May 24, 2013 - 7:30 pm - $10 in advance / $12 at the door / $5 for students with ID
OUTSIDE IN: AN EVENING WITH WILLIAM HOOKER PERFORMING SOLO TO THE OSCAR MICHEAUX SILENT CLASSIC FILM “THE SYMBOL OF THE UNCONQUERED”
Trinity-on-Main - 69 Main Street - New Britain 860-229-2072
William Hooker, renowned jazz percussionist, to accompany the Oscar Micheaux silent classic film “The Symbol of the Unconquered.” African-American filmmaker Oscar Micheaux’s 1920 silent classic, “The Symbol of the Unconquered” was originally advertised as a chance to come see “the annihilation of the Ku Klux Klan.” While clearly overly optimistic, the film was an important part of the emergence of a radical black voice in the mass media. At the same time, by the excellence of his work, Micheaux challenged prevailing stereotypes. Hooker’s musical improvisation to the film adds depth to the experience of the film while being its own statement of social optimism in the arts. Hooker brings dramatic tension and human warmth to avant-garde jazz. His music obliterates the genre distinctions that limit both the expression and the appreciation of music. Hooker and his guest Chris Sampson from WHUS/UConn will lead a discussion and Q&A with the audience after the performance. Abundant free parking will be available on the street or in the Chestnut Street Garage across from Trinity and next to the New Britain Police Station. Refreshments will be available. Tickets are available by calling 860-229-2072, emailing katie@trinityonmain.org or online at www.trinityonmain.org.
Friday, May 24, 2013 - 8:30 pm ($18) and 10 pm ($12)
MEMORIZE THE SKY: MATT BAUDER, AARON SIEGEL, ZACH WALLACE
Firehouse 12 - 45 Crown Street - New Haven
Tickets can be purchased online at http://firehouse12.com or by phone at (203) 785-0468, or in person at the box office beginning at 7 pm. the night of the show (subject to availability).
Saturday, May 25, 2013 – 7pm - $15 / $12 members
WILLIAM PARKER - contrabass violin, shakuhachi, sinter ǀ JOE MORRIS - guitar ǀ STEPHEN HAYNES - cornet
IMPROVISATIONS

Real Art Ways - 56 Arbor Street – Hartford
William Parker is a master musician, improviser, and composer. He plays the bass, shakuhachi, double reeds, tuba, donso ngoni and gembri. He was born in 1952 in the Bronx, New York. He studied bass with Richard Davis, Art Davis, Milt Hinton, Wilber Ware, and Jimmy Garrison. He entered the music scene in 1971 playing at Studio We, Studio Rivbea, Hilly’s on The Bowery and The Baby Grand, playing with many musicians on the avant-garde school Bill Dixon, Sunny Murray, Charles Tyler, Billy Higgins, Charles Brackeem, Alan Silva, Frank Wright, Frank Lowe, Rashid Ali, Donald Ayler, Don Cherry, Cecil Taylor, Jimmy Lyons, Milford Graves and with traditionalists like Walter Bishop, Sr. and Maxine Sullivan. Early projects with dancer and choreographer Patricia Nicholson created a huge repertoire of composed music for multiple ensembles ranging from solo works to big band projects. Parker played in the Cecil Taylor unit from 1980 through 1991. He also developed a strong relationship with the European Improvised Music scene playing with musicians such as Peter Kowald, Peter Brotzmann, Han Bennink, Tony Oxley, Derek Bailey, Louis Sclavis, and Louis Moholo. He began recording in 1994 and leading his own bands on a regular basis founding two ensembles, In Order To Survive, and The Little Huey Creative Music Orchestra. In 2001, Parker released O’Neal’s Porch, which marked a turn toward a more universal sound working with drummer Hamid Drake. The Raining on the Moon Quintet followed, adding vocalist Leena Conquest and the Quartet from O’Neal’s Porch. Most notable among many recent projects is the Inside Songs of Curtis Mayfield. He has taught at Bennington College, NYU, The New England Conservatory of Music, Cal Arts, New School University and Rotterdam Conservatory of Music. He has also taught music workshops throughout the world including Paris, Berlin and Tokyo and the Lower East Side. Parker is also a theorist and author of several books including the Sound Journal, Document Humanum, Music and the Shadow People and The Mayor of Punkville. Improvisations is a monthly, artist-curated series of performances centering on freely improvised music. Featured musicians are placed in combinations ranging from duo to quartet and, often, have never worked together as an ensemble prior to the performance. There is no rehearsal. The music is created in the moment, held by the listener. The aim is to create a listening environment that will allow the audience intimate and deep contact with the music and those who make it. Come early and stay late, listen to and speak with the performing artists. “You know you’re doing something right when the musicians come out to hear you.” – Stephen Haynes
Saturday, May 25, 2013 - $10 admission
JHUNTER GROUP: Steve Marien, saxophone; Rufus Davis, keyboards; James Hunter, bass; Randy Cloutier, drums
Hung Won Asian Grille - 232 New London Rd. - Colchester
Music of and inspired by Parker, Coltrane, Wonder, Ellington, Caple, Zawinal, Jarrett. 860-537-8788 - www.jazzundergroundcafe.com
Friday, May 31, 2013 – 7:30pm - $10
PETR CANCURA’S DOWN HOME
La Paloma Sabanera Coffee House – Hartford 860-956-5003
Born in Eastern Europe, brought up in the wilderness of the Great White North, and later thrusting into the urban Jungle of New York City, it is no surprise that Petr Cancura’s musical pallet is as wide as it is. Known for bringing together roots music and jazz, his critically acclaimed group from Brooklyn tackles the old-time acoustic blues and country on the porch, off the beaten path in Mississippi… you will not be disappointed with this music!
     Petr Cancura - sax, clarinet, banjo
     Richie Barshay – drums (Herbie Hancock Quartet, Chic Corea, The Klezmatics)
     Garth Stevenson – bass (Mat Maneri)
     Brian Drye - trombone, piano
     Kirk Knuffke – cornet (Matt Wilson Quartet)
Friday, May 31, 2013 - 8pm - $30 General Public / $29 Series / $25 Faculty, Staff, SCSU Student Guests (Limit 2) / $15 SCSU students with valid ID (Limit 1)
LEE RITENOUR
John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts - Southern CT State University - 501 Crescent Street - New Haven
This Grammy award winning guitarist has 17 nominations and numerous #1 spots in guitar polls. He has recorded over 40 albums, with 35 chart songs. He brings the talented keyboardist Patrice Rushin in his band and his contemporary Jazz arsenal to Lyman Center for a concert loaded with great music.
Friday, May 31, 2013 - 8:30 pm ($18) and 10 pm ($12)
DAVE DOUGLAS QUINTET
Firehouse 12 - 45 Crown Street - New Haven
Tickets can be purchased online at http://firehouse12.com or by phone at (203) 785-0468, or in person at the box office beginning at 7 pm. the night of the show (subject to availability).
June, 2013
Saturday, June, 1, 2013 - 8 pm - $15 in advance online / $20 at the door
The UMOJA MUSIC SERIES - PRE-SERIES FUNDRAISER - presented by UMOJA Music [Yunie Mojica & Raynel Frazier]
Shenel Johns -
Vocals, Erica Bryan - Vocals, Josh Evans - Trumpet, Zaccai Curtis - Piano, Matt Dwonszyk - Bass, Jonathan Barber - Drums
La Paloma Sabanera Coffee House - 405 Capitol Avenue - Hartford, CT
Come Join us at La Paloma Sabanera to help raise funds to support this year's second annual UMOJA Music Series! The concert will feature an auction for a piece by Andres Chapparro, and a group of young and talented musicians. Through the creation of the UMOJA Music Series, Raynel Frazier and Yunie Mojica inspire the spirit of community in Hartford with creative concerts that represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa. This concert series features outstanding musicians who all have a unique connection to the Hartford community. This year's series will be featured during the summer months of June & July.
Sunday, June 2, 2013 - 6:30pm - 2 sets - $15
NOAH PREMINGER GROUP: "HAYMAKER" CD RELEASE GIG AND BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
Noah Preminger – saxophone; Glenn Zaleski – piano; Matt Pavolka – bass; Colin Stranahan - drums
Bridge Street Live - 41 Bridge Street – Collinsville - (860) 693-9762
Of Brooklyn-based saxophonist Noah Preminger, the Hartford Courant said: “Playing with the grace and expressiveness of a jazz veteran, the young man with a horn mixes cool restraint with emotional depth and old-fashioned poetry with contemporary bite.” Preminger, just 26, has recorded his third album and second for Palmetto Records, Haymaker, for release in spring 2013. Featuring a kindred-spirit band of top-flight players – guitarist Ben Monder, double-bassist Matt Pavolka and drummer Colin Stranahan – the album showcases a brace of fresh Preminger compositions, along with a cover of jam-band rocker Dave Matthews’ “Don’t Drink the Water.” Blending atmosphere and melody, free-floating sax lines and hovering guitar, the Noah Preminger Group plays modern jazz that balances musical integrity with sensual allure.
Born in 1986, Preminger grew up in Canton, Connecticut. While still in high school, he studied with saxophone luminary Dave Liebman. Preminger released his debut album, Dry Bridge Road, just after graduating from the New England Conservatory of Music. The recording was a sextet session with top-line players from the New York scene: Monder, pianist Frank Kimbrough, trumpeter Russ Johnson, bassist John Hébert, drummer Ted Poor. Jazz Review said: “Preminger seems to have arrived on the scene fully formed, with incisive musical instincts, a distinctive personal sound and an ability to write great tunes.” Dry Bridge Road was named Debut of the Year in the Village Voice Critics Poll. Preminger’s second album as a leader, Before the Rain, came in 2011 from Palmetto. Featuring a quartet with Kimbrough, Hébert and drummer Matt Wilson, the album includes Preminger originals alongside pieces by Kimbrough and Ornette Coleman, plus the standards “Where or When” and “Until the Real Thing Comes Along.” All About Jazz said, “Sensitivity and an ear for aural sophistication are the hallmarks of tenor saxophonist Noah Preminger,” while The New York Times concluded: “Mr. Preminger designs a different kind of sound for each note, an individual destiny and story.” The Boston Phoenix has declared: “Preminger’s sound is beholden to no one. That makes him continually unpredictable and continually satisfying.” The saxophonist has performed on key stages from Boston and New York to Europe and Australia, and he has played with the likes of Billy Hart, Dave Holland, Fred Hersch, Dave Douglas, Victor Lewis, John and Bucky Pizzarelli, Billy Drummond, George Cables, Roscoe Mitchell, Dr. Eddie Henderson and Dave Liebman.
Monday, June 3, 2013 - 8 pm - 11 pm - FREE
JAZZ MONDAYS - presented by Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
NEW TRICKS, featuring Mike Lee & Ted Chubb

Black-eyed Sally's - 350 Asylum Street - Downtown Hartford
For the aficionado, or the curious first-timer, Jazz Mondays is the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, Jazz Mondays 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. Jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge unless noted. Under 21s welcome.
Tuesday, June 4, 2013 - 8:30 pm- 11:30 pm - $10 cover charge
ROB DUGUAY'S SONGEVITY TRIO - Rob Duguay (bass, composition), Joel Cotton-Betteridge (tenor saxophone), Nadav Snir-Zelniker (drums)
Arch Street Tavern – 85 Arch Street - Hartford
The group will play two sets of original music by Duguay as well as homages to Duke Ellington, Bill Evans, Cedar Walton, and more!! Visit www.robduguay.com for samples, reviews, and more
Friday, June 7, 2013 - 8:30 pm ($18) and 10 pm ($12)
AMINA FIGAROVA SEXTET
Firehouse 12 - 45 Crown Street - New Haven
Tickets can be purchased online at http://firehouse12.com or by phone at (203) 785-0468, or in person at the box office beginning at 7 pm. the night of the show (subject to availability).

Monday, June 10, 2013 - 8 pm - 11 pm - FREE
JAZZ MONDAYS - presented by Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
CAMILLE THURMAN QUARTET

Black-eyed Sally's - 350 Asylum Street - Downtown Hartford
For the aficionado, or the curious first-timer, Jazz Mondays is the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, Jazz Mondays 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. Jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge unless noted. Under 21s welcome.
Friday, June 14, 2013 - 7 pm - 8:30 pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Veterans' Park - 68 Veterans Way - Berlin
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
Rain Site: Berlin Senior Citizens' Center See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Friday, June 14, 2013 - 8:30 pm ($18) and 10 pm ($12)
CHES SMITH AND THESE ARCHES
Firehouse 12 - 45 Crown Street - New Haven
Tickets can be purchased online at http://firehouse12.com or by phone at (203) 785-0468, or in person at the box office beginning at 7 pm. the night of the show (subject to availability).
Sunday, June 16, 2013 - 2 seatings: 11am & 12:30pm - $35 ($25 for museum members) includes music, a classic buffet, complimentary Bloody or Mimosa, and admission to the museum.
JAZZ BRUNCH @ THE WADSWORTH ATHENEUM - Father’s Day: DANA LAUREN’S Heart Belongs To Daddy! –with Sam Parker-piano
EATS Café @ The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum Of Art - 600 Main St- Hartford
Tickets a must. Reservations strongly suggested. To purchase on line: http://www.museumtix.com/program/program.aspx?vid=877&pid=3891204 or call the museum Wed.~Sun for more info 860-838-4100. What better way to tell Dad “Happy Father’s Day” than with the steamy sexy vocals of Dana Lauren?! www.danalauren.com
Monday, June 17, 2013 - 8 pm - 11 pm - FREE
JAZZ MONDAYS - presented by Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
KRIS ALLEN QUARTET

Black-eyed Sally's - 350 Asylum Street - Downtown Hartford
For the aficionado, or the curious first-timer, Jazz Mondays is the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, Jazz Mondays 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. Jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge unless noted. Under 21s welcome.
Thursday, June 20, 2013- 6:30 pm - $10
2012–2013 WAC/HJS Freight House Jazz Series
PEDRO GIRAUDO ORCHESTRA

Windsor Art Center - 40 Mechanic Street – Windsor
Saturday, June 22, 2013– 8pm- $48 stage-side table seating; $28 general row seating, byob encouraged.
MUSIC @ JAPANALIA – DIANNE MOWER-Jazzing Bonnie Raitt- with Norman Johnson- guitar, Chris Casey- piano, Don Wallace- bass, Arti Dixson- drums
Japanalia Eiko - 11 Whitney Street - Hartford
Reservations a must 860-232-4677 MC/Visa (leave a call back #) or cash, check, credit card at the store, Mon~Sat Hartford’s favorite jazz diva swings, jives, and scats her way through Blues super-star Bonnie Raitt’s songbook with her outstanding inimitable band! There are always surprises and glorious improvisation in a Dianne Mower show! www.diannemower.com
Sunday, June 23, 2013 – 7 pm - 8:30pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in concert
Hubbard Park Green - Hubbard and Main Streets - Glastonbury
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
Rain Date: August 11, 2013 See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Monday, June 24, 2013 - 8 pm - 11 pm - FREE
JAZZ MONDAYS - presented by Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
STEPHEN “KING” PORTER

Black-eyed Sally's - 350 Asylum Street - Downtown Hartford
For the aficionado, or the curious first-timer, Jazz Mondays is the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, Jazz Mondays 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. Jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge unless noted. Under 21s welcome.
Thursday, June 27, 2013 - 7pm - 8:30pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Unionville Center Gazebo - Alice Clover Pinney Park - School Street - Unionville
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
Rain Site: Farmington Senior and Community Center, 321 New Britain Avenue, Unionville.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Friday, June 28, 2013 - 6:30 pm – 8pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Enes South Windsor Senior/Community Center - 150 Nevers Road - South Windsor
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Saturday, June 29, 2013 – 8pm - $48 stage-side table seating; $28 general row seating, byob encouraged.
MUSIC @ JAPANALIA – DEZRON DOUGLAS QUARTET: “HOMEGROWN”
Japanalia Eiko - 11 Whitney Street - Hartford
Reservations a must 860-232-4677 MC/Visa (leave a call back #) or cash, check, credit card at the store, Mon~Sat Owen McNally (Hartford Courant) calls it “…high-swinging, high-flying pure jazz”, so fasten your seat belts when Hartford son, Dezron Douglas brings his quartet back to town for our season’s final concert!
Monday, June 30, 2013 - 8 pm - 11 pm - FREE
JAZZ MONDAYS - presented by Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
Black-eyed Sally's - 350 Asylum Street - Downtown Hartford
For the aficionado, or the curious first-timer, Jazz Mondays is the best taste of live jazz in Hartford. Set in the southern juke joint atmosphere of Black-eyed Sally’s, Jazz Mondays 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. Jam session begins after 1st set. No cover charge unless noted. Under 21s welcome.
July, 2013
Tuesday, July 2, 2013 - 6:30 pm – 8pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Norton Park - South Washington Street - Plainville
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
SummerWind Performing Arts Center - 40 Griffin Road North - Windsor
YELLOWJACKETS / JIMMY GREENE / MARION MEADOWS / JACKIE RYAN
Monday, July 8, 2013 – 6pm
MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ IN BUSHNELL PARK
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society
Bushnell Park - Hartford
Monday, July 8, 2013 - 6:30 pm – 8pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Calendar House Pavillion - 388 Pleasant Street - Southington
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
Rain or shine. See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - 7 pm - 9 pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Darius Miller Band Shell - Walnut Hill Park - New Britain
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Bring a lawn chair or blanket (plenty of room for dancing). See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Thursday, July 11, 2013 - 6:30 pm – 8pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Malerbo Recreation Complex - 27 George Washington Turnpike - Burlington
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain date: Thursday, July 12, 2013.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Monday, July 15, 2013 – 6pm
MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ IN BUSHNELL PARK
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society
Bushnell Park - Hartford
Tuesday, July 16, 2013 – 7pm - 8:30pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Southwest Senior Housing Portico - 124 Southwest Avenue - Windsor Locks
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain site: Windsor Locks Senior Center.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Thursday, July 18, 2013 - 6:30 pm – 8pm - FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Patriots Park - 124 Lake Street – Coventry
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain date: Thursday, August 15, 2013.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Friday, July 19 – Sunday, July 21, 2013
GREATER HARTFORD FESTIVAL OF JAZZ
Bushnell Park - Hartford
Monday, July 22, 2013 – 6pm
MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ IN BUSHNELL PARK
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society
Bushnell Park - Hartford
Monday, July 29, 2013 – 6pm
MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ IN BUSHNELL PARK
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society
Bushnell Park - Hartford
August, 2013
Monday, August 5, 2013 – 6pm
MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ IN BUSHNELL PARK
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society
Bushnell Park - Hartford
Saturday August 10, 2013 - 8pm
LES PAUL'S TRIO FEATURING NICKI PARROTT WITH SPECIAL GUEST BUCKY PIZZARELLI
Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center - 300 Main Street - Old Saybrook
A celebration of the legacy of the great Les Paul with Les Paul's Trio featuring Nicki Parrott (vocals/bass), Lou Pallo (guitar) and John Colianni (piano) with special guest the incomparable Bucky Pizzarelli. For tickets call 877-503-1286 or visit Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center.
Monday, August 12, 2013 – 6pm
MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ IN BUSHNELL PARK
Presented by the Hartford Jazz Society
Bushnell Park - Hartford
Tuesday, August 13, 2013 – 7pm - 8:30pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Rockwell Park Amphitheatre - Dutton Avenue - Bristol
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain date: Wednesday, August 14, 2013.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Friday, August 16, 2013 – 7pm - 8:30pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Avon Senior Center - 635 West Avon Road - Avon
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain or shine.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Monday, August 19, 2013 - 6:30pm – 8pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Westmoor Park - 119 Flagg Road - West Hartford
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain date: Tuesday, August 20, 2013.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Thursday, August 22, 2013 – 6:30pm – 8pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Town Green, Main Street - East Hartford
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD. Rain site: East Hartford Cultural Center.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 - 6:30pm -7:45pm – FREE
SIMPLY SWING in Concert
Prosser Public Library - 1 Tunxis Road - Bloomfield
A 10-piece swing orchestra, Simply Swing features vocalist Vivian LaRosa, six swinging horns and a dynamic rhythm section performing favorites from the Big Band era and selections from their recently released “Dancing to Simply Swing” CD.
See www.simplyswingmusic.com for more information.
September, 2013
Saturday, September 7, 2013 - 11 am – 8 pm – FREE
THIRD ANNUAL NORTHAMPTON JAZZ FESTIVAL
Downtown Northampton, MA
Saturday, September 7, 2013 - 8pm
THE MANY COLORS OF A W*O*M*A*N XXXIII JAZZ FESTIVAL
The Artists Collective - 1200 Albany Ave. - Hartford
Sunday, September 15, 2013 - 11:30am – 7pm
HARTFORD JAZZ SOCIETY ANNUAL JAZZ CRUISE
Connecticut State Pier - 152-198 Little Meadow Road - Haddam
October, 2013
November, 2013
December, 2013
Other Regional Jazz Calendars
Connecticut
  • WRTC's Jazz Weekly Concert Collective and Regulars Concert Collective
  • WWUH (University of Hartford) Jazzline, phone 860-768-5267 (updated every Friday afternoon)
  • Jazz Haven Calendar (New Haven and southern Connecticut)
  • WHUS Blues Bus Concert Calendar
    Massachusetts
  • WFCR Events Calendar (Northampton and western Massachusetts)
  • Worcester County Jazz Scene
  • WICN Event Calendar(central Massachusetts)
  • MassJazz
  • MyRootDown.com (Boston and surrounding area)
  • Boston Improv Calendar
  • New England Traditional Jazz Plus (originates in Massachusetts and covers New England)
    New York
  • Albany and Surrounding Environs
    Jazz Festivals in CT
  • Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz - July 17 – 19, 2009
  • Hot Steamed Jazz Festival
  • Litchfield Jazz Festival
  • Monday Night Jazz Series at Bushnell Park (Hartford)
  • New Haven Jazz Festival
    Jazz Festivals Beyond CT
  • Bang On A Can Marathon (New York City) - Marathon in June
  • Beantown Jazz Festival (Boston) - September
  • Burlington Discover Jazz Festival - May 30 – June 8, 2008
  • Festival of New Trumpet Music (FONT) (New York City) - September
  • Freihofer's Jazz Festival (Saratoga, NY)
  • Guelph Jazz Festival & Colloquium (Guelph, Ontario, Canada) - October
  • Hoop City Jazz & Arts Festival (Springfield, MA) - July 4, 5
  • International Jazz Festival of Montreal
  • International Society for Improvised Music
  • Jazz on the Vineyard (Martha’s Vineyard)
  • Martha’s Vineyard Jazz Festival (Martha’s Vineyard, MA) - August
  • Massachusetts
  • New Languages (New York City)
  • Newport Jazz Festival (Newport, RI) - August
  • Pittsfield Jazz Festival (Pittsfield, MA)
  • Victoriaville Jazz Festival
  • Vision Collaborations Festival (New York City) - March (4 days)
  • Vision Festival (New York City)
  • Williamstown Jazz Festival

    Jazz Festivals Around the World - click HERE
    Ongoing Jazz Series in the Area - and check out WRTC's Jazz Weekly Concert Collective and Regulars Concert Collective for detailed listings in the Greater Hartford area.
  • 1249 Wine Bar (1249 West Main Street – Waterbury 203-754-5554) – Lori Fusco performs every Sunday from 11am to 3pm during Sunday Jazz Brunch and nearly every Friday from 7pm to 10pm
  • Arch Street Tavern (Hartford) - Hartford Jazz Orchestra performs every Monday evening at 8pm.
  • Barcelona (971 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford) – Goza Latin Jazz performs every Thursday, 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
  • Baxter's at the Bitter End (Bridgeport) - Steve Clark Trio performs every Wednesday from 8PM - 11:30 PM
  • Black-eyed Sally's (Hartford) - Jazz Mondays (8 pm - 11 pm) is presented by the Charter Oak Cultural Center with The Hartford Jazz Society
  • Bloomfield Village Pizza (34 Tunxis Avenue – Bloomfield) - Cliff Davis Presents: Early Jazz every Monday evening 6pm – 9pm with some of the finest jazz artists in Connecticut. Students and professionals are welcome to perform. Come early and Leave early, and remember all of this is keeping jazz alive!!
  • Cafe Nine (New Haven) - jazz jams every Saturday afternoon from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM (No Cover)
  • Canoe Club (Harbor Park - 80 Harbor Drive - Middletown) - jazz every Thursday from 6 – 10 pm
  • Casona Bar & Restaurant (681 Wethersfield Ave - Hartford - 860-519-5590) – Latin Jazz every Friday at 6:30 pm; complimentary Happy Hour buffet; bar & restaurant menu
  • Cuvee (37 Raymond Road, West Hartford 860-756-5590) – Jazz Guitarist/Composer Sinan Bakir with his friends and musicians perform originals and jazz standards every Wednesday evening 7 pm – 10 pm
  • Elks Club (171 Bellvue Street - Hartford - 860-247-1237) - Sam Kimble Jam Session every other Monday at 7 pm
  • Firebox Restaurant (539 Broad Street, Hartford 860-246-1222) - Ed Fast and Conga-Bop every first Wednesday of the month
  • Firehouse 12 (New Haven) - Spring and Fall Jazz Series on Friday evenings featuring some of the most active, innovative and respected musicians in creative improvised music today.
  • Japanalia – at various venues in Hartford
  • La Kerencya (624 Franklin Ave. Hartford 860-206-3985) – Live Latin Jazz, 1st and 3rd Thursday, 8 – 11 pm, no cover. Don DePalma performs with Linda Ransom & friends every Saturday from 7:30 – 10:30 pm. Jazz Jam every Sunday at 7:30 pm with Don DePalma on piano and Steve Davis on trombone. Also enjoy savory and delicious, authentic Peruvian dishes served by a friendly and professional staff. Great acoustics, dance floor, drink specials...a perfect night out!
  • Montenia’s (137 State Street - Springfield, MA) - every second Sunday (3 PM - 7 PM)
  • Never Ending Books (810 State Street - New Haven) - New Haven Improvisers Collective conducts the Improvised Music Workshop on the last Monday of the month at 8 pm; Uncertainty Music Series presents a creative music performance on the second Saturday of the month at 8 pm.
  • New Britain Museum of American Art (First Fridays) - various artists perform on the first Friday of each month from 5:30 PM - 8 PM
  • Olde School Saloon and Bistro (418 State Street - New Haven, 203-772-0544) – jazz every Saturday at 8:30 pm – no cover and free parking next door
  • Outer Space (Treadwell Street - Hamden) – The jazz series happens every Sunday evening from 6-8pm. Free. The Outer Space is Located in a separate building 130 feet from “The Space” in the same parking lot. The Outer Space is a 21+, 79 capacity, café, listening room and lounge. Plenty of free, safe parking and not to mention we have the friendliest staff this side of the Mason Dixon.
  • Pizzeria Lauretano (291 Greenwood Avenue – Bethel 203-792-1500) – live jazz Sunday evenings from 6pm – 8pm, reservations recommended
  • The Owl Shop (268 College Street - downtown New Haven - opposite the Shubert Theatre) - The Gil Hawkins Collective plays every Wednesday evening from 9 pm to midnight. Always a treat, the group leads the hottest jazz jam session in the area.
  • Shish Lounge (904 Farmington Ave. - West Hartford 860-986-7698) - Live Jazz on Fridays, 6pm-10pm - $5 cover
  • Smokin' with Chris (Southington) - check their calendar for jazz listings
  • Trinity-On-Main (69 Main Street, New Britain 860-229-2072) – a live jazz happy hour is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month starting at 5 pm, donation $5
  • Whistle Stop Cafe (139 Broad Street, Windsor, Exit 37 off 91 North) – every Wednesday from 6 pm – 9 pm, no cover
    Send new listings and comments to, e-mail JazzInCt@yahoo.com
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