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Brazilian Guitar/Vocal Sensation Badi Assad, McCoy Tyner Tribute, Jackie Warren and more.....

Nighttown Cleveland by Nighttown / Jim Wadsworth Productions

Hi Folks.

Get ready for a BIG weekend of music at Nighttown!!

On Thursday, it's the legendary trumpet player Dominick Farinacci & Friends (sorry, already Sold-Out).

On Friday, please welcome the Brazilian guitarand vocal sensation, Badi Assad. This is Badi'sfirst appearance ever at Nighttown so we're reallyexcited. She brings a blend of Brazilian, classical,originals and jazz. She's an excellent guitarist, andher family including her two brothers are all famousfor their guitar playing. But Badi is also known forher creative vocals and mouth percussion. Trulyunique. A "Don't Miss" concert.

Then on Saturday, world-renown Venezuelanpianist Benito Gonzalez brings a tribute to themusic of McCoy Tyner. Another "Don't Miss" concertwith Peter Dominguez-acoustic bass (USA), &

Francisco Mela-drums (Cuba).

Then on Sunday, Benito Gonzalez returns and our own JackieWarren play on two pianos for an amazing Latin piano summit. As you know Jackie is a highly acclaimed international touringpianist, and is a key player in Sammy DeLeon's Latin JazzOrchestra. This evening should be amazing!

Hope you can join us for these exciting concerts at Nighttownthis weekend!

Jim WadsworthNighttown / Jim Wadsworth Productions

great dining | great music

12387 Cedar Road (top of Cedar Hill)Cleveland Heights, OH

216-795-0550

www.nighttowncleveland.comMap to Nighttown

To Purchase Concert Tickets

No need to make an additional table

reservation - it's already included with your concert tickets!!

New Shows Recently Added

1/31 University of Dayton Big Band 2/09 Planned Parenthood Benefit featuring Nellie McKay 2/10 Rory Block 2/12 Jackie Warren Trio 2/14 Reggie Kelly & David Thomas Trio 2/20 Jamey Haddad Quartet featuring Dominick Farinacci & AlainMallet 2/21 "An Evening of Oscar Winning Songs" w/Robb Sapp, LindseyMitchell, & Sami Kennett 2/26 Ethnic Heritage Ensemble2/28 & 3/01 Grant Green Jr. featuring Mike Clark3/02 Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci

"Late Night at Nighttown" ** Every Week **

Fridays Jackie Warren on piano 10:30PM - 1:00AM No coverSaturdays Jackie Warren on piano 10:30PM - 1:00AM No cover

Nighttown Newsletter

Click here to sign up for the Nighttown newsletter. Subscribersreceive advance notice and discounts to many of the shows.

Nighttown Tickets and Seating Policy

To purchase tickets go here, Do not make an additionaltable reservation - it is already included with yourpurchased tickets. All seats are General Admission. Allseating is based on the time that you arrive for theshow and based on how many people are in your partyand where we have tables of that size. You may besharing a table with other people.

Nighttown Student Discount PolicyStudents up to age 26 are 1/2 off the regular price. Student priced tickets are only available the night of theshow, are available only at the door, and are subject toavailability. Students must have a photo ID from agenerally-recognized high school, college or university. Full-paying ticket holders get priority on admission andseating. Certain select shows have no discount basedon arrangements with the artist. On evenings whenthere are two shows (i.e. shows at 7 & 9PM), thediscount is only good for the second show. Studentsunder the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adultpaying full price in order to be eligible for the discount.

Dominick Farinacci & Friends$20.00$20.00 Thursday 1/24 8:00 pm SOLD OUT

Presented in Association with Tri-C Jazz Festival.

Tri-C Jazz Fest will Announce their 2019 Jazz Festival Lineup on this night!

Featuring: International Trumpet Star Dominick Farinacci & Several Special

Guests from both NYC and Cleveland!

Featuring: Dominick Farinacci-trumpet, Patrick Bartley-alto sax, Taber Gable-

piano, Graeham Guerin-bass, Robert Hubbard-drums, & more TBA.

Complete Show after Tri-C Lineup Announcement.

Trumpeter Dominick Farinacci has been recently credited the title GlobalAmbassador to Jazz at Lincoln Center by Wynton Marsalis, working to furtherintegrate jazz into communities around the world. He graduated from The JuilliardSchool in 2005 launching his career in Japan with a prolific run of eight albums,later releasing two more globally. He has performed in more than 120 cities in 14countries around the world, was a featured guest on ABC’s Good Morning America,and is a TED Speaker. Music icon Quincy Jones says of Dominick’s accomplishmentsin performance, recording, education & advocacy, “This kid is 360 degrees!”

His most recent recording “Short Stories” is produced by Tommy LiPuma. This isTommy & Dominick’s first collaboration, and was recorded in their hometown ofCleveland at the Gill and Tommy LiPuma Center for Creative Arts.

In addition to touring around the world with his band, Dominick has beensuccessful in his personal endeavors on bringing music into the community throughArts and Wellness & Education. He was invited by TED to be a TED Speaker at the2014 TED MED conference at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.

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Badi Assad$20.00$20.00 Friday 1/25 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

From Brazil! Dynamic and Exciting World Class Guitarist & Vocalist plays

Cleveland for the first time Live @ Nighttown!

With Special Guest opening Act Moises Borges

Brazil’s Badi Assad (Bah-gee Ah-sagh) is one of the most innovative, passionate andtalented Artists of all times and is lauded as one of the world’s most unique andcross-transcendental performance artists of this generation. She transcendstraditional styles of her native Brazilian music with a mixture of pop, jazz andworld/ethnic sounds from around the world. As a result, the extraordinary singer,guitarist, and percussionist is successfully forging an exhilarating genre of musicthat quite literally defies categorization.

What makes Badi Assad so unique is her hungry pursuit of performanceexperimentation that no other artist has done: She combines an extraordinaryguitar talent, a unique mouth percussion, beautiful singing, combining a rhythmicbody movement, to create an exciting, fresh music sound, and leaving spectators…simply… BREATHLESS. Indeed, watching Badi perform is like witnessing a spiritualphenomenon. How she does what she does all at once, and delivering anextraordinary performance, is quite unbelievable.

As a singer, Badi is vibrant and electric, responding to her inner passion with deftcreativity. As a guitarist, she has inspired audiences and critics worldwide with aunique combination of technical mastery and innovation that has caused many tore-examine their notions about the instrument. Through it all, Badi’s adventurousspirit and buoyant personality have become an integral part of her music.

“Ms Assad takes the listener on a personal musical journey – diving deep in to fierylusciousness….Assad’s astonishing guitar lines and voluptuous vocals aboundthroughout. Her Brazillian jazzy edges will have fans begging for more….”- TJ Nelson, World Music Central

“Badi Assad redefines solo (guitar) performance! Revelatory, a brilliant display ofinnovation, imagination, and skill…almost hypnotically compelling!”- LOS ANGELES TIMES

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Benito Gonzalez International Trio (Tribute to McCoyTyner)$20.00$20.00 Saturday 1/26 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

From Venezuela! Piano Master plays music from his new CD "Passion,

Reverence, Transcendence, The Music of McCoy Tyner"

Featuring: Benito Gonzalez-piano (Venezuela), Peter Dominguez-acoustic bass

(USA), & Francisco Mela-drums (Cuba).

Born into a family of Venezuelan folk musicians, jazz pianist Benito Gonzalez hasalways had a deep-rooted appreciation for pastimes and traditions. Today, as arising star of one of America’s finest musical traditions, Gonzalez has come to hiscurrent status by following in the footsteps of jazz’s ancestral forebears. The fusionof world rhythms and straight-ahead jazz makes this passionate performer anaudience favorite all over the world.

Benito Gonzalez is being recognized as an exciting pianist and composer for hiswell-received debut album ‘Starting Point’ (Christian McBride, Antonio Sanchez,Rene McLean, Ron Blake) in addition to taking home first prize at the GreatAmerican Jazz Piano Competition.

Benito’s acclaimed sophomore album, ‘Circles’ (Ron Blake, Myron Walden, AzarLawrence, Christian McBride, Jeff “Tain" Watts), reveals a very personal body ofwork as he emerges as a leader and an accomplished improviser.

After almost seven years of touring with Kenny Garrett, Benito has addednumerous festivals and international jazz club dates to his credit. He has alsoshared the stage with Curtis Fuller, Pharaoh Sanders, Bobby Hutcherson, ChristianMcBride, Ignacio Berroa, Roy Hargrove, Rene McLean, Steve Turre,DelfeayoMarsalis,Hamiet Bluiett, Antonio Sanchez, T.K. Blue, Nicholas Payton, AzarLawrence, and Jackie McLean.

His multi-cultural talents have led to frequent recording dates, from American jazzmasters such as Kenny Garrett and Azar Lawrence, to West African musicians andLatin bands. Benito has also served as musical director for several VenezuelanRecording Artists.

McCoy Tyner started his career in 1960 as amember of the Jazztet led by Benny Golsonand Art Farmer. Six months later, he joinedthe quartet of John Coltrane that includedJimmy Garrison and Elvin Jones. He playedon Coltrane's "My Favorite Things" forAtlantic. The band toured almost non-stopbetween 1961 and 1965, recording numerousalbums for Impulse! Records.

McCoy also appeared as a sideman on manyBlue Note albums of the 1960s, although hewas often credited as "etc." on the cover ofthese albums to respect his contract withImpulse! Records.

After leaving Coltrane's group, Tyner produced a series of post-bop albums releasedby Blue Note from 1967 to 1970. These included The Real McCoy (1967), TenderMoments (1967), Time for Tyner (1968).

During the 1980s and 1990s Tyner worked in a trio that included Avery Sharpe onbass and Louis Hayes, then Aaron Scott, on drums. He made solo albums for BlueNote, starting with Revelations (1988) and culminating in Soliloquy (1991). Aftersigning with Telarc, he recorded with several trios that included Charnett Moffett onbass and Al Foster on drums. In 2008, he toured with a quartet of Gary Bartz,Gerald L. Cannon, and Eric Kamau Gravatt.

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Benito Gonzalez & Jackie Warren$20.00$20.00 Sunday 1/27 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

International Summit Meeting with Two Latin Jazz Masters onPiano Live at Nighttown!

Featuring: Benito Gonzalez-piano (Venezuela), & Jackie Warren-piano (USA).

Born into a family of Venezuelan folk musicians, jazz pianist Benito Gonzalez hasalways had a deep-rooted appreciation for pastimes and traditions. Today, as arising star of one of America’s finest musical traditions, Gonzalez has come to hiscurrent status by following in the footsteps of jazz’s ancestral forebears. The fusionof world rhythms and straight-ahead jazz makes this passionate performer anaudience favorite all over the world.

Benito Gonzalez is being recognized as an exciting pianist and composer for hiswell-received debut album ‘Starting Point’ (Christian McBride, Antonio Sanchez,Rene McLean, Ron Blake) in addition to taking home first prize at the GreatAmerican Jazz Piano Competition.

Benito’s acclaimed sophomore album, ‘Circles’ (Ron Blake, Myron Walden, AzarLawrence, Christian McBride, Jeff “Tain" Watts), reveals a very personal body ofwork as he emerges as a leader and an accomplished improviser.

After almost seven years of touring with Kenny Garrett, Benito has addednumerous festivals and international jazz club dates to his credit. He has alsoshared the stage with Curtis Fuller, Pharaoh Sanders, Bobby Hutcherson, ChristianMcBride, Ignacio Berroa, Roy Hargrove, Rene McLean, Steve Turre,DelfeayoMarsalis,Hamiet Bluiett, Antonio Sanchez, T.K. Blue, Nicholas Payton, AzarLawrence, and Jackie McLean.

A native of Colorado, pianist Jackie Warren originally came to Ohio to studyclassical piano at Oberlin Conservatory, where she graduated with a B.M. inperformance. While at Oberlin, she also studied jazz arranging, composition, andtheory with Wendell Logan, who became a mentor to her, and encouraged her tostudy jazz piano with Neal Creque and jazz improvisation with Kenny Davis. Jackiereceived a M.M. from Cleveland State University in classical piano performance, andhas been Cleveland favorite ever since.

Jackie performs regularly as a soloist, but has her own jazz trio, which includesbassist Peter Dominguez and drummer Ron Godale. She also arranges and plays

salsa and Latin jazz with percussionist Sammy Deleon y Su Orquesta. Jackie hasperformed locally and nationally with such artists and groups as David FatheadNewman, Benny Bailey, Clark Terry, Frank Morgan, Bobby Watson, Frank Foster,Jane Bunnett and the Spirits of Havana, Othello Molineaux, Donald Harrison, GeraldWilson, Jimmy Heath, Impacto Nuevo, Humberto Ramirez, Tony Vega, Tito Rojas,Tito Puente, Jr., Hector Tricoche, Percy Sledge, King Solomon, the Jazz HeritageOrchestra, the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, and the Afro Cleveland Orchestra.

Jackie is also an educator and clinician, and has taught jazz arranging andcomposition and coached jazz combos at Oberlin. She is currently on the JazzStudies Faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, Metro Campus. She is also on thefaculty at the Cleveland Music School Settlement.

University of Dayton Big Band$10.00$10.00 Thursday 1/31 7:30 pm Buy Tickets

Top Notch College Big Band from SW Ohio Live on Nighttown's Stage.

Under the Direction of Dr. Willie Morris.

The Dayton Jazz Ensemble is the premier big band at the University of Dayton. Thegroup, just returned from a performance at the 2019 Jazz Education NetworkConference in Reno, Nevada on January 11th. DJE performs frequently on campusand gives local and regional concerts at high schools and college jazz festivals, andother invited musical events. DJE is in the Cleveland area to give an invitedperformance at the 2019 Ohio Music Education Association ProfessionalDevelopment Conference.

Two members of the band are from the Cleveland area. Veronica Elliot , a MentorHigh School graduate, plays the baritone saxophone and Eric Harper, a CuyahogaHeights graduate, plays trumpet. In addition to several outstanding instrumentalsoloists, the band also features both a male and female vocalists Jack Destephanoand Isabella Klotz. The band plays music from every genre of the big band era butis recognized for performing the the latest contemporary music for jazz ensembleand has premiered several new compositions. Tonight DJE will also be playingmusic from the Stan Kenton, Count Basie, USAF Airmen of Note, and DukeEllington libraries.

Diego Figueiredo & Camille Bertault$25.00$25.00 Friday 2/01 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

Saturday 2/02 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

World Class Summit Meeting with Dynamic Brazilian Guitarist and French Vocalist

Extraordinaire Live at Nighttown!

Back by Popular Demand!

Brazilian guitarist Diego Figueiredo is a virtuoso with an infectious, joyful feelingthat will leave you amazed and happy. Don't miss this opportunity to discover thisincredible artist.

Diego Figueiredo is an extraordinary fast rising star among the world's greatest jazzguitarists. His superb technique, timing and imagination have made him one of thehottest international names right now. He has a very unique skills and his concerthave been a great success in more than 50 countries around the world.

He has already released 23 CDS, 3 DVDs and a book and he has received awardstwice at the “MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL” as one of the greatest guitarists in theworld. Diego Figueiredo performs one amazing concert uniting technique andemotion in a fusion of Brazilian music and jazz.

?Diego Figueiredo is a brilliant musician who keeps the tradition of the true essenceof Brazilian music and at the same time can be extremely virtuous , modern andinnovative.

Camille Bertault

It’s true that she is a young woman of her time with a tangle of solid roots. Herfather is an amateur jazz pianist and she has always sung with him on and off. Butat the age of eight, she sat down at the piano and set about the wholeconservatoire experience (Ravel, Debussy, Chopin, Scriabin) while developing apassion for the vocal stylists of Brazil (Elis Regina, Djavan, Cesar Camargo). Andshe also listened to Jeff Buckley, Björk, Fiona Apple, Léo Ferré, Barbara, SergeGainsbourg…

When she was twenty, she rebelled. She shut her scores, moved to a drama classand wrote and played pieces for children. “I started to sing in a cabaret style,somewhere between a narrator and actor. But it was jazz that bewitched me.” Bychance she ended up at the Paris Conservatory which gave her solid training inharmony, composition and jazz singing. Camille Bertault discovered the theorybehind her spontaneous creations, combined improvisation and her cabaret joys,came back to Ravel via jazz – “the pleasure of combining all the stages I hadpassed through”.

The next stages were natural: she filmed herself singing Coltrane’s part on GiantSteps and the buzz ensued. Soon afterwards in 2016 her first album, En vie [Alive],emerged. Then François Zalacain, head of American label Sunnyside, introduced herto Michael Leonhart and Dan Tepfer. Michael, a trumpeter and multi-instrumentalist would produce her new album while Dan would accompany her onpiano. “They’re both French-speaking and interested in the text,” enthuses CamilleBertault, who doesn’t want to make albums where the voice just serves as aninstrument. She likes lyrics to hold the limelight.

http://www.camillebertault.fr/

https://www.diegofigueiredo.com/

Camille Bertault - Making of 'Pas de Géant'

Diego solo performing Asa Branca Diego Duo performing "Take Five" Diego Trio performing Aquarela do Brasil

The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra$50.00$50.00 Monday 2/04 6:00 pm Buy Tickets8:00 pm Buy Tickets

One Night Only!

The Top Big Band in Jazz! The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra are returning to

the Nighttown Stage!!

Directed by Scotty Barnhart. With Special Guest Vocalist Vanessa Rubin.

Playing music from their brand new Grammy Nominated CD "All About that

Basie".

Voted Top Big Band in Downbeat's 2018 Readers Poll!

2015 marked the 80th Anniversary of The Count Basie Orchestra. William “CountBasie” (1904-1984) started his orchestra in Kansas City in 1935, and proceeded todevelop and maintain one of the greatest jazz orchestras in music history. With Mr.Basie’s meticulous attention to detail, selecting the very best musicians, andmaking sure that every tune could be danced to, The Count Basie Orchestra soonbecame the favorite for everyone to listen and dance to with it’s irresistible KansasCity Swing beat.

Count Basie was able to get many of the greatest instrumentalists and vocalists injazz to be a part of his orchestra, including Billie Holiday, Lester Young, SweetsEdison, Joe Jones, Joe Williams, Snooky Young, Frank Foster, Thad Jones, FrankWess, and Clark Terry amongst others.

The orchestra has played many times for Kings, Queens, and other members ofRoyalty around the world. Appeared in movies, television shows, tv and radiocommercials, won every respected jazz poll in the world at least once, and has 18Grammy Awards, the most for any orchestra.

Today, under the leadership of it’s Director, Scotty Barnhart, The Count BasieOrchestra is traveling the world celebrating it’s 80th Anniversary and continuingthe excellent standards in swinging and shouting the blues with precision, andcontinuing to be “The Most Explosive Force In Jazz”.

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Beppe Gambetta$20.00$20.00 Tuesday 2/05 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

From Italy! Master of Fingerstyle Guitar Beppe Gambetta returns to Nighttown!

Beppe Gambetta from Genoa, Italy is the leading flat picking guitarist of Europe.Through his superb recordings, frequent tours of Europe and America, and originalresearch into early Italian traditional and popular music, Gambetta has establishedhimself as a major world artist of the steel string guitar.....powerful, flashy,musical, unforgettable. In addition to his brilliant solo performances and recordings,Gambetta has collaborated with many great folk artists worldwide. They includeDavid Grisman, Carlos Aonzo, Gene Parsons (from the Byrds), Glenn Moore (fromOregon), Danny Weiss, Norman Blake, Mike Marshall, and many others. Gambetta has played to a packed houses at Night Town on four occasions prior tothis. He last appeard at Nighttown in 2006. Currently Beppe Gambetta is touringin support of his latest CD "Slade Stomp". In addition to being a great guitarist,Beppe Gambetta has a quick wit and an evening spent with him is full of goodhumor and music. Don't miss the great Italian flat picker Beppe Gambetta live at Nighttown.

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Marcus Johnson$25.00$25.00 Friday 2/08 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

Piano/Keyboard & Master Composer from Washington DC returns to Nighttown!

With Robert Hubbard & Hubb's Groove!

An independent Billboard-ranked musician and NAACP Image Award-nominatedjazz keyboardist and pianist, Marcus Johnson is also the CEO and Founder of FLOBrands, LLC and more recently FLO Wine, LLC. He has combined an eminentlysuccessful musical career with his love of wine by marrying the two in a uniqueendeavor. Over the last decade, Marcus Johnson has released 15 successful studioalbums. On Pandora, Marcus receives 5.1 million spins per year with 2,000 newstations added each month, and his music receives a 74% “thumbs ups” ratingverses an average of 56%. Johnson is the owner of a music label, Three Keys

Music, and has emerged as one of the young lions of the “DIY” music world. Hisunique self-taught style of piano play has earned him distinction among his peers,praise from the media and accolades across the music industry.

Marcus has performed at clubs throughout the United States and has been afeatured performer at many jazz festivals, including his hometown Capitol JazzFestival, the Bermuda Jazz Festival, Atlantic Artscape, the Latin Meets Jazz Festivaland the Huntington Beach Jazz Festival.

Hubb's Groove is a mIx ofSoul, Jazz, R&B and a splash ofGospel.

It's a smooth but yet highenergy band that believeswhats played from the heart,reaches the heart.

The band was founded In 1996by Robert Hubbard inCleveland Ohio under the name"Moments Notice". In 2006

Robert changed the name to "Hubb'S Groove". The band has shared the stage withKirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Earth Wind & Fire, Wayman Tisdale and Pieces of aDream.

Hubb's Groove has performed with Angela Bofill, Marcus Johnson, Alex Bugnon,Mike Phillips and Sean Jones to name a few.

When the group is not on tour together, they are working with other artists such asBabyface, Toni Braxton, Gerald Albright and Pieces of a Dream.

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Nellie McKay - Benefiting Planned Parenthood ofGreater Ohio$125.00$125.00 Saturday 2/09 7:30 pm Tickets call (216) 961-8804 EXT 4960

Please Join Us

Saturday, February 9, 2019

FOR AN ENTERTAINING EVENING BENEFITINGPLANNED PARENTHOOD OF GREATER OHIO

FEATURING ACCLAIMED SINGER, SONGWRITER AND ACTIVIST

Nellie McKay

“Funny and Touching, ceaselessly cleverand scarily talented” - The New Yorker

NIGHTTOWN12387 CEDAR ROAD, CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH, 44106

-TICKETS $125

DRINKS AND DESSERTS, FRUIT AND CHEESE-

CHECK IN 7:30 P.M.PROGRAM BEGINS 8:00 P.M.

-TO PURCHASE TICKETS BY PHONE

PLEASE CALL RIANA BREWER (216) 961-8804 EXT 4960TO PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE OR TO MAKE A DONATION

PLEASE VISIT: PPGOH.ORG/NIGHTTOWN

Presenting SponsorTHE FOWLER FAMILY

Sister Orchid is Nellie’s seventh album, starting with Get Away From Me (“a tourde force” – The New York Times), including Normal As Blueberry Pie: A Tribute toDoris Day (“among the killer overhauls of American standards” – The New YorkTimes) and My Weekly Reader, music of the ‘60s (“..kicks serious butt. The resultsare beautiful.” – PopMatters), her second collaboration with famed Beatles engineerGeoff Emerick.

She has won a Theatre World Award for her portrayal of Polly Peachum on Broadwayin The Threepenny Opera, performed onscreen in the films PS I Love You andDowntown Express, and her music was used in Rumor Has It, Monster-in-Law, PS ILove You, Gasland, Last Holiday and Private Life.

McKay co-created and starred in the award-winning off-Broadway hit Old Hats andhas written three acclaimed musical biographies.

Nellie’s music has been heard on Mad Men, Boardwalk Empire, Weeds, Grey’sAnatomy, NCIS, Nurse Jackie, and SMILF, and she has appeared on TV showsincluding The Late Show with David Letterman, Conan, Ferguson, and The View. Nellie has made numerous radio appearances on NPR’s Mountain Stage, A PrairieHome Companion, eTown, and Marion McPartland’s Piano Jazz.

A recipient of PETA’s Humanitarian Award and the Humane Society’s Doris DayMusic Award in recognition of her dedication to animal rights, Nellie is anannoyingly vocal advocate for feminism, civil rights and other deeply feltprogressive ideals. She is currently part of the campaign to get horse-drawncarriages off the streets of New York City. She would like to be friends with Russia,the country with the most nuclear weapons in the world. We must all be very kindto one another.

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Rory Block $20.00$20.00 Sunday 2/10 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

Legendary Guitarist, Vocalist, & Acoustic Blues Master hits the Nighttown Stage

for Special Solo Show!

Heralded as “a living landmark” (Berkeley Express), “a national treasure” (GuitarExtra), and “one of the greatest living acoustic blues artists” (Blues Revue), RoryBlock has committed her life and her career to preserving the Delta blues traditionand bringing it to life for 21st century audiences around the world.

Rory grew up in Manhattan a family with Bohemian leanings. Her father owned aGreenwich Village sandal shop, where musicians like Bob Dylan, Maria Muldaur andJohn Sebastian all made occasional appearances.

During these years, her life was touched – and profoundly changed – by personalencounters with some of the earliest and most influential Delta blues masters of the20th century. She made frequent visits to the Bronx, where she learned her firstlessons in blues and gospel music from the Reverend Gary Davis. She swappedstories and guitar licks with seminal bluesman Son House, Robert Johnson’s mentor

She left home at 15 with her guitar and a few friends – heading for California on atrip marked by numerous detours and stops in small towns. Along the way, shepicked her way through a vast catalog of country blues songs and took her firststeps in developing a fingerpicking and slide guitar style that would eventually beher trademark.

Rory signed a record deal with the Boston-based Rounder label, which released herHigh Heeled Blues in 1981. Rolling Stone referred to the album as “some of themost singular and affecting country blues anyone – man or woman, black or white,old or young – has cut in recent years.”

Back in a groove that felt comfortable and fulfilling, Block threw herself headlonginto an ambitious touring schedule that helped hone her technical and vocal skills toa razor’s edge, and at the same time nurture a distinctive voice as a songwriter.She stayed with Rounder for the next two decades, making records thatsimultaneously indulged her affinity for traditional country blues and served as aplatform for her own formidable songwriting talents.

The world finally started taking notice in the early 1990s, and Block scorednumerous awards throughout the decade. Her visibility overseas increaseddramatically when Best Blues and Originals, fueled by the single “Lovin' Whiskey,”went gold in parts of Europe. She brought home Blues Music Awards four years in arow – two for Traditional Blues Female Artist of the Year, and two for Best AcousticBlues Album of the Year. Then in 1997, she won the Blues Music Award for TheLady and Mr. Johnson, a tribute to Robert Johnson, taking home Acoustic Album ofthe Year.

Today, after more than twenty highly acclaimed releases and five Blues MusicAwards, Block is at the absolute height of her creative powers, bringing a world fullof life lessons to bear on what she calls “a total celebration of my belovedinstrument and best friend, the guitar.”

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Jackie Warren Trio$15.00$15.00 Tuesday 2/12 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

North Coast Pianist Extraordinaire and her Trio light up the

Nighttown Stage for a Pre Valentine's Celebration!

Featuring: ?Jackie Warren-piano, Dave Morgan-acoustic bass, &

Jim Rupp-drums.

Jackie Warren is one of the most in demand and prolific jazz artists working in theGreat Lakes region. On any given night she can be found playing solo, leading hertrio, or she may be heard as the featured soloist and arranger for Sammy DeLeon'sSalsa and Latin-Jazz ensemble.

Jackie is also a professor of music at Tri-C and has several private students. Jackiegets calls constantly from vocalists who want her to back them, and she isfrequently called on to guest with national artists. In the past few years Jackie hasperformed with David "Fathead" Newman, Bobby Watson, Jane Bunnett, and GeraldWilson. Her arrangements can be heard on Sammy DeLeon's new CD, and recentlyshe recorded a session in collaboration with the legendary producer Tommy LiPuma.

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Nellie McKay$30.00$30.00 Wednesday 2/13 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

Special Valentine's Day Celebrations!

Singer Songwriter, Pianist, & Comedienne plays Music from

her Brand New CD "Sister Orchid" & more!

Live on the Nighttown Stage!

Sister Orchid is Nellie’s seventh album, starting with Get Away From Me (“a tourde force” – The New York Times), including Normal As Blueberry Pie: A Tribute toDoris Day (“among the killer overhauls of American standards” – The New YorkTimes) and My Weekly Reader, music of the ‘60s (“..kicks serious butt. The resultsare beautiful.” – PopMatters), her second collaboration with famed Beatles engineerGeoff Emerick.

She has won a Theatre World Award for her portrayal of Polly Peachum on Broadwayin The Threepenny Opera, performed onscreen in the films PS I Love You andDowntown Express, and her music was used in Rumor Has It, Monster-in-Law, PS ILove You, Gasland, Last Holiday and Private Life.

McKay co-created and starred in the award-winning off-Broadway hit Old Hats andhas written three acclaimed musical biographies.

Nellie’s music has been heard on Mad Men, Boardwalk Empire, Weeds, Grey’sAnatomy, NCIS, Nurse Jackie, and SMILF, and she has appeared on TV showsincluding The Late Show with David Letterman, Conan, Ferguson, and The View. Nellie has made numerous radio appearances on NPR’s Mountain Stage, A PrairieHome Companion, eTown, and Marion McPartland’s Piano Jazz.

A recipient of PETA’s Humanitarian Award and the Humane Society’s Doris DayMusic Award in recognition of her dedication to animal rights, Nellie is anannoyingly vocal advocate for feminism, civil rights and other deeply feltprogressive ideals. She is currently part of the campaign to get horse-drawncarriages off the streets of New York City. She would like to be friends with Russia,the country with the most nuclear weapons in the world. We must all be very kindto one another.

“Thanks to (McKay), the Great American Songbook has a living, breathing presentas well as a glorious past” – Boston Globe

“McKay comes on as a Harlem Holly Golightly, a social activist with a disarmingmastery of pop vernacular.” – Los Angeles Times

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Reggie Kelly & David Thomas Trio$15.00$15.00 Thursday 2/14 7:30 pm Buy Tickets

Dynamic Vocalist and Actor of Karamu House Reggie Kelly hits the stage for

Special Valentine's Day Show at Nighttown!

Featuring: Reggie Kelly-vocals, David Thomas-piano & keys, Kip Reed-bass, &

Myron Gardner-drums.

On Nighttown's Fully Covered and Heated Stephen's Green Patio.

Mr. Kelly, an alumnus of Cleveland’s renowned Karamu House Theater, performs amusical blend of contemporary and classical jazz. He can take a song andmesmerize you.

Mr. Kelly’s accomplishments include success as a national award-winning singer,actor, director, choreographer and playwright with over 30 years of experience.

His authentic arrangements and interpretations of various artists include Kem, AlJarreau, Frankie Beverly and the soft baritone voice of Nat King Cole. His silkysoulful voice has pleased many audiences over the years.

Mr. Kelly has received critical acclaim performing leading roles throughout thetapestry of African-American musical theater classics including The Wiz, Dreamgirls,Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope, The Mahalia Jackson Story, and Tambourines toGlory.

He toured Europe in The Black Gospel, starred in the touring company of Heaven’sChild-The Emmett Till Story, co-starring Grammy-award winner Regina Belle, andCharnelle Brown of the television series A Different World.

A crooner, devoted to Jazz and Neo-Soul, Reggie Kelly has delighted audiences atthe most respected and high profile musical venues in this country and abroadincluding Club Isabella; The Boarding House; The Bop Stop; XO's; The House OfBlues; Jazz 28; The Sarasota Jazz Society-Sarasota FL; and he was also the openingact for Najee at the Nautica Stage-Cleveland OH.

Currently Reggie Kelly is a soloist member with the renowned N.Y. Harlem Singers,annually touring China, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and South Africa.

Dave Thomas is a most talented piano and organ player. A native of Youngstown,Ohio, Thomas was an original member of the R&B group, "Sweet Thunder". He hasalso performed with numerous artists including the late James Cleveland, DizzyGillespie, Albert Ayler, Jean Carn, David Ruffin, and Grover Washington. Hismusical involvement also includes musical theater as a writer, performer, andmusical director in performances such as "The Living Cross," "The Audition," and"Black Nativity," which have played throughout the United States and Canada. He isalso a gifted educator, having worked at The Cleveland School of the Arts,Cuyahoga Community College, Cleveland State University, and Case WesternReserve University. He is the co-author of a book entitled, "A Child's First Book ofSpirituals," which is the recipient of the Coretta Scott King Award.

Presently, Dave is a music teacher with the Cleveland Board of Education SchoolDistrict, Musical Staff member of The Southeast Seventh Day Adventist, Facultymember of The Cleveland State University, and Minister of Music at St. TimothyBaptist Church. He earned his undergraduate and graduate Music degrees fromCleveland State, Cleveland Institute of Music, Case Western Reserve University, andpostgraduate work at the Royal Holloway College in London, England.

Nellie McKay$30.00$30.00 Thursday 2/14 8:00 pm Buy Tickets

Special Valentine's Day Celebrations!

Singer Songwriter, Pianist, & Comedienne plays Music from

her Brand New CD "Sister Orchid" & more!

Live on the Nighttown Stage!

Sister Orchid is Nellie’s seventh album, starting with Get Away From Me (“a tourde force” – The New York Times), including Normal As Blueberry Pie: A Tribute toDoris Day (“among the killer overhauls of American standards” – The New YorkTimes) and My Weekly Reader, music of the ‘60s (“..kicks serious butt. The resultsare beautiful.” – PopMatters), her second collaboration with famed Beatles engineerGeoff Emerick.

She has won a Theatre World Award for her portrayal of Polly Peachum on Broadwayin The Threepenny Opera, performed onscreen in the films PS I Love You andDowntown Express, and her music was used in Rumor Has It, Monster-in-Law, PS ILove You, Gasland, Last Holiday and Private Life.

McKay co-created and starred in the award-winning off-Broadway hit Old Hats andhas written three acclaimed musical biographies.

Nellie’s music has been heard on Mad Men, Boardwalk Empire, Weeds, Grey’sAnatomy, NCIS, Nurse Jackie, and SMILF, and she has appeared on TV showsincluding The Late Show with David Letterman, Conan, Ferguson, and The View. Nellie has made numerous radio appearances on NPR’s Mountain Stage, A PrairieHome Companion, eTown, and Marion McPartland’s Piano Jazz.

A recipient of PETA’s Humanitarian Award and the Humane Society’s Doris DayMusic Award in recognition of her dedication to animal rights, Nellie is anannoyingly vocal advocate for feminism, civil rights and other deeply feltprogressive ideals. She is currently part of the campaign to get horse-drawncarriages off the streets of New York City. She would like to be friends with Russia,the country with the most nuclear weapons in the world. We must all be very kindto one another.

“Thanks to (McKay), the Great American Songbook has a living, breathing presentas well as a glorious past” – Boston Globe

“McKay comes on as a Harlem Holly Golightly, a social activist with a disarmingmastery of pop vernacular.” – Los Angeles Times

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Sugar Mountain "The Ultimate Neil Young Tribute"$20.00$20.00 Saturday 2/16 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

From New Jersey. Top Flight 5 Piece Group from NJ Pays Tribute to Rock Legend

Neil Young Live at Nighttown!

Sugar Mountain brings together an ensemble of veteran musicians from the NewJersey music scene who faithfully replicate the songs of one of our era’s mostprolific and beloved singer/songwriters, Neil Young.

Neil Young’s career spans an amazing five plus decades, from the seminal countryrock sounds of Buffalo Springfield and super group Crosby, Stills, Nash and Youngto garage band Crazy Horse and countless genre bending solo releases, spanningeverything from folk, country, electronic and hard rock to rockabilly.

Sugar Mountain brings to life the Neil Young concert experience, covering all of thebest known songs, hits and deep cuts that are sure to thrill all, from the mostardent of fans to the casual Neil listener.

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Tim Lekan Quartet$10.00$10.00 Sunday 2/17 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

North Coast Acoustic Bass Master leads Quartet at Nighttown!

Featuring: Tim Lekan-acoustic bass, Dan Maier-piano, Tom First-saxophone, & Donnie Patterson-drums.

The Tim Lekan Quartet, featuring Dan Maier - piano, Tom First - tenor saxophone,Donnie Patterson - drums, and Tim Lekan - acoustic bass, will make their debutperformance at the Bop Stop on Wednesday, January 17. In addition to playingsome of Tim's original compositions, this performance will include compositions byChick Corea, Benny Golson, Kenny Barron, Frank Foster, Neil Young and theBeatles.

Bassist, composer and educator Tim Lekan began his musical journey touring theUnited States playing electric bass in R&B bands. His love of jazz (inspired by therecordings and compositions of Bill Evans, John Coltrane, Jim Hall, Miles Davis,Antonio Carlos Jobim and Kenny Wheeler), and the bass playing of masters such asPaul Chambers, Ron Carter, Red Mitchell, Charlie Haden, Sam Jones and DaveHolland, eventually led him to the acoustic bass.

Tim has had many influential teachers, including Dennis Irwin, Michael Moore, AndyMcKee, and Martin Wind. In addition, he has studied composition withpianist/composer Ron Thomas.

A native of Cleveland, Tim lived and worked in New Jersey from June, 1986 throughApril, 2016. As a free-lance bassist he had the opportunity to work with andaccompany many artists including Orrin Evans, Grant Stewart, Bob DeVos, RickGermanson, Vic Juris, Joanna Pascale, Oscar Brown Jr., Paul Jost, Barry Miles,Rebecca Paris, Jim Ridl, Gina Roche, Natasha Roth, and Ron Thomas. During thistime he was also a member of The George Mesterhazy Trio, The Antfarm Quartetand Trio Music (with drummer Bob Shomo and pianist Jim Ridl).

A love of composing combined with the knowledge gained from all theseexperiences served as a catalyst and inspired Tim to begin leading his own group.His ensembles have performed at numerous venues and festivals in New Jersey andPennsylvania. Many of his original compositions can be heard on 2 self-producedCDs.

Tim was also a member of the South Jersey Jazz Society Board of Directors forseveral years, and he served as Artistic Director for 4 years. As an organizer andsupporter of the local music scene in South Jersey, Tim created and organizedmany musical events over the last several years. He hosted a weekly jazz jamsession each summer, a Monday Night Duo Concert Series, Young Musicians Night,and The Tuesday Night Jazz Series.

Jamey Haddad Quartet featuring Dominick Farinacci &Alain Mallet$20.00$20.00 Wednesday 2/20 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

Drum and Percussion Master from Paul Simon's Band leads All-Star International

Quartet Live on Nighttown's Stage!

Featuring: Jamey Haddad-drums & percussion, Dominick Farinacci-trumpet, Alain

Mallet-piano, & Kip Reed-bass.

A world class musician, native Clevelander Jamey Haddad spent most of 2012and 2013 on tour with Paul Simon enhancing his world famous music with hispercussion. Jamey Haddad has been a professional jazz musician for over 25 years.He has toured and recorded with many greats including Carly Simon, Joe Lovano,Paul Winter, Kenny Werner, and Dave Liebman.

Currently Jamey teaches at Oberlin and he continues to tour as the leader of hisown group, and as a special guest, nationally and internationally.

Dominick Farinacci graduated from The Juilliard School in 2005and launched his career in Japan with a prolific run of eightalbums. Farinacci’s latest recording, Short Stories (Mack AvenueRecords), was produced by five-time Grammy Award winnerTommy LiPuma and features Steve Gadd, Christian McBride andJacob Collier, among others.

Performing in more than 120 cities in 14 countries around the world, Farinacci hasbeen a featured guest on ABC’s Good Morning America and is a TED speaker. Hehas also served as Global Ambassador for Jazz at Lincoln Center in Doha, Qatar.

Born in France, Alain Mallet moved to the States at the age of 21 to attendBerklee College of Music where he is now a professor in the ensemble and pianodepartments.

He has toured and recorded with some of the biggest names in Jazz and Popincluding Phil Woods, Paul Simon, Paquito D'Rivera, Marc Johnson and MadeleinePeyroux.

He is a critically acclaimed producer, particularly for his work with Jonatha

Brooke. His original compositions have been recorded by jazz greats such as GaryBurton, Dave Samuels and Paquito D'Rivera and published in the European RealBook (Sher Music).

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"An Evening of Oscar Winning Songs" w/Robb Sapp,Lindsey Mitchell, & Sami $25.00$25.00 Thursday 2/21 8:00 pm Buy Tickets

Oscar Winning Songs in the Spotlight with Top Notch Dynamic Vocalists!

Featuring: Rob Sapp-vocals, Lindsey Mitchell-vocals, Sami Kennett-vocals, & Bob

Navis Jr.-piano & MD.

Hosted by Michael Estwanik of American Songbook Today.

American Songbook Today, a new 501(c)(3) non-profit, presents “An Evening ofOscar-Winning Songs” starring three of Cleveland’s finest performers, hosted byAST’s founder and president, Michael Estwanik. He will provide fascinating insightsinto each of these songs and the Oscar history as well. Listen to such Oscar-winningsongs as “Gigi,” “Moon River,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” “All the Way,” “Call MeIrresponsible,” “Swinging on a Star,” and many more.

Robb SappRobb is a Cleveland native who has appeared on Broadway, off-Broadway and acrossthe country in such shows Wicked, Shrek, The Lion King and the national tour ofSaturday Night Fever. He can be heard on four original cast recordings and was apart of the creation of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and SpringAwakening. Robb teaches and directs several times a year in Cleveland. Lindsey MitchellLindsey was in the Original Canadian Cast of both Sunset Blvd starring DiahannCarroll, and Aspects of Love. She starred in Young Frankenstein and Ruthless! atthe Beck Center in Lakewood. She has been a featured soloist with The ClevelandPops Orchestra at Severance Hall and The Musical Theatre Project.

Sami KennettOriginally from Tampa, Florida, Samantha is currently a Sophomore BFA MusicalTheatre Major at Kent State University. Her recent theatre credits include Lili inCarnival at Near West Theatre, Hazel in Allegro at Kent State, and Jo in LittleWomen at Kent State. She’s has been trained vocally in classical singing andmusical theatre.

Michael Estwanik, Founder of American Songbook TodayAn alumnus of St. Ignatius, Michael returned to his hometown recently to givesomething back to his hometown. He has presented five concerts thus far andhosts “Tuesdays at Twilight,” at The Brothers Lounge. He served as president ofthe Board of MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets) for seven years and was aninvestor in Broadway’s Urinetown, Julie Halston’s A Lifetime of Comedy, and asassociate producer of Charles Busch’s rollicking World War II musical wingtimeCanteen starring Alison Fraser, Maxene Andrews (of The Andrews Sisters), andCharles Busch himself . Michael founded The American Songbook Project andbrought hundreds of Broadway and jazz performers to NYC. He founded theTelluride American Songbook Festival with concerts by Marilyn Maye, Liz Callaway,and Andrea McArdle (the original Annie).

Bob Navis Jr. Music Director/PianistBob has been with Near West Theatre since 1980 and became its first ArtisticDirector in 1993. In this role he is responsible for all arts programming andprogram development. At the age of 17 he founded and acted as Artistic Directorof the St. Francis Community Theatre for 10 years. He has been Music Director at

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church since 1987 to the present. He has acted as Directorand/or Music Director of over 300 theatrical productions throughout the Clevelandarea including Near West, Cleveland Public Theatre, and Cleveland Play House.

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Hubb's Groove Tribute to Aretha Franklin$20.00$20.00 Friday 2/22 8:00 pm Buy Tickets10:00 pm Buy Tickets

Drummer Robert Hubbard & Hubb's Groove pay Tribute to the Queen of Soul for

Two Big Shows!

Featured Vocalists: Pat Harris, Stacey Crawford (Sarah's Girl), & more TBA.

Aretha Franklin (March 25, 1942 – August 16, 2018) was an American singer,songwriter, civil rights activist, actress, and pianist. Franklin began her career as achild singing gospel at New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan, where herfather C. L. Franklin was minister. At the age of 18, she embarked on a secularcareer recording for Columbia Records. She found acclaim and commercial successafter signing with Atlantic Records in 1966. Hit songs such as "Respect", "Chain ofFools", "Think", "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman", "I Never Loved a Man(The Way I Love You)", and "I Say a Little Prayer", propelled her past her musicalpeers. By the end of the 1960s, Aretha Franklin had come to be known as "TheQueen of Soul".

Franklin recorded 112 charted singles on Billboard, including 77 Hot 100 entries, 17top-ten pop singles, 100 R&B entries, and 20 number-one R&B singles, becomingthe most charted female artist in history.

Franklin received numerous honors throughout her career, including a 1987induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as the first female performer to beinducted, the National Medal of Arts, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a GrammyLegend Award in 1991, then the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994.

Hubb's Groove is a mIx of Soul, Jazz, R&Band a splash of Gospel.

It's a smooth but yet high energy band thatbelieves whats played from the heart, reachesthe heart.

The band was founded In 1996 by RobertHubbard in Cleveland Ohio under the name"Moments Notice". In 2006 Robert changedthe name to "Hubb'S Groove". The band hasshared the stage with Kirk Whalum, JonathanButler, Earth Wind & Fire, Wayman Tisdaleand Pieces of a Dream.

Hubb's Groove has performed with AngelaBofill, Marcus Johnson, Alex Bugnon, Mike Phillips and Sean Jones to name a few.

When the group is not on tour together, they are working with other artists such asBabyface, Toni Braxton, Gerald Albright and Pieces of a Dream.

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Dominick Farinacci - "Spirit of the Groove"$20.00$20.00 Sunday 2/24 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

International Trumpet Star with All-Star Next Generation Lineup for Special Show

at Nighttown!

Trumpeter Dominick Farinacci has been recently credited the title GlobalAmbassador to Jazz at Lincoln Center by Wynton Marsalis, working to furtherintegrate jazz into communities around the world. He graduated from The JuilliardSchool in 2005 launching his career in Japan with a prolific run of eight albums,later releasing two more globally. He has performed in more than 120 cities in 14countries around the world, was a featured guest on ABC’s Good Morning America,and is a TED Speaker. Music icon Quincy Jones says of Dominick’s accomplishmentsin performance, recording, education & advocacy, “This kid is 360 degrees!”

His most recent recording “Short Stories” is produced by Tommy LiPuma. This isTommy & Dominick’s first collaboration, and was recorded in their hometown ofCleveland at the Gill and Tommy LiPuma Center for Creative Arts.

In addition to touring around the world with his band, Dominick has beensuccessful in his personal endeavors on bringing music into the community throughArts and Wellness & Education. He was invited by TED to be a TED Speaker at the2014 TED MED conference at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.

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Baldwin Wallace Musical Theatre Color-Full Cabaret$10.00$10.00 Monday 2/25 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

Next Generation of Broadway Stars live at Nighttown!

Join students of the Baldwin Wallace University’s renowned Music Theatre

Department for an evening featuring BWMT’s students of color. Members from theclasses of 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 will perform music from all genres as theypresent songs that are meaningful to them, and that speak to the joys andstruggles of being a person of color in present-day America. Share in thisopportunity to be unified by pride in our students and to celebrate all the richnessand benefits we enjoy from being a diverse community.

From lead roles on Broadway and London’s West End to prime time television, filmand more, students and alumni from Baldwin Wallace’s Music Theatre programhave garnered top acclaim for more than 20 years and was most recently ranked asthe number 1 Music Theatre program in the country by onstageblog.com! Programdirector Victoria Bussert continues to lead students to successful careers.

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Ethnic Heritage Ensemble$20.00$20.00 Tuesday 2/26 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

Legendary Cutting Edge Group hits the Stage at Nighttown! EHE now in its 45th

Year!

Featuring: Kahil El'Zabar-multi percussion & composer, Corey Wilkes-trumpet, &

Alex Harding-sax.

The legendary Ethnic Heritage Ensemble , has toured internationally , as well asrecorded enumerable celebrated projects over the last 45 years. The current line up, featuring Corey Wilkes/trumpet , Alex Harding/baritone sax , and the bandsfounder, Dr. Kahil El’Zabar/multi-percussion/composition , is guaranteed to inspireaudiences , as well as garner significant media for every presenter. The EHE is amust see ensemble, who’s truly making history with each performance! They are21st century Griot, making Great Black Music for the Mind, Body, and Spirit! Their2019 touring season , will be kicked off with Amazon Prime’s world premier of theEHE’s international award winning feature film documentary, “Be Known!”. It wasexecutive produced by super star actors , Angela Bassett and Courtney Vance , anddirected by Dwayne Johnson Cochran.

Sir Kahil El’Zabar,who was actually knighted by the Counsel General of France in2014 for his long standing international contributions in the Arts. Dr. El’zabarholds a PHD in (Interdisciplinary Arts),Lake Forest College. He was an associateprofessor of music and collaborative arts at U. Nebraska(Lincoln),(1985-1995) U.Illinois(Chicago),(1999-2004). El’Zabar was chairman of the Iconic Association forthe Advancement of Creative Musicians(AACM)1975-1983. He has worked with such luminaries as Dizzy Gillespie,Nina Simone,Stevie Wonder,PharoahSanders,Cannonball Adderly, Donnie Hathaway, Lester Bowie,Neneh Cherry,ArchieShepp,David Murray,Nona Hendryx,Ntozake Shange.

Corey Wilkes, one of the most sought after trumpeters in the world today, is analumnus of the famed Berkley School of Music. He’s a former associate professor ofjazz trumpet at Roosevelt U.,2008-2016. He is a current member of the worldfamous AACM. Mr. Wilkes had the honor of being chosen to replace the late, greatLester Bowie in the Art Ensemble of Chicago. He is currently starring in areoccurring role in the hit TV show ,”Empire”. Wilkes has played with RoyHargrove, Dr.Lonnie Liston Smith, and James Carter.

For two decades , Alex Harding was the most sought after baritone saxophonist inNew York City. In recent years, Alex has moved back to his hometown of Detroit

and still is one of the busiest musicians in the world. He studied privately for manyyears with the legendary baritone saxophonest, Hamiet Bluiett. Alex was the banddirector of the Tony Award winning Broadway hit,”Fela”. He has worked withlegends such as Dollar Brand, Sun Ra, Hamiet Bluiett, James Carter, Roy Hargrove,Oliver Lake, Joe Bowie’s Defunkt, and Aretha Franklin.

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Eric Everett Jazz Quintet featuring Charlene Smythe$10.00$10.00 Wednesday 2/27 7:00 pm Buy Tickets

North Coast Drummer leads Exciting Group featuring Vocalist Charlene Smythe

from the Jerry Garcia Band and the Melvin Seals Band!

Featuring: Eric Everett-drums, Charlene Smythe-vocals, Paul Kelner-piano/keys,

Brian Gaudino-guitar, & Jeff Slater-bass.

Eric Everett Jazz performs traditional jazz/latin standards with a contemporaryapproach. Repertoire ranges from American Songbook, including Duke Ellington,Bill Evans, Miles Davis, Antonio Carlos Jobim, to jazz/pop and R&B artists such asSteely Dan, Aretha Franklin & Bill Withers.

Since 2012, EEJ has built an extensive client list, including Guarino’s Restaurant,Speak of the Devil Cocktails, Playhouse Square, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, VaultLounge, The City Club, Rockefeller’s and The Culinary Institute, among others.

Charlene Smythe is an accomplished vocalist, returning toCleveland from San Francisco where she toured with Melvin Sealsand JGB. She was a frequent performer at Skip's in San Franciscoand has backup vocal Motown recording experience. Upon arrivingin Cleveland, Princess Ladia and King Solomon encouraged her toperform with prominent local blues and jazz musicians, including:Alan Greene, Ernie Krivda, Butch Armstrong Band and ReginaldRedd.

Eric Everett, leader, has nearly four decades ofdrumming experience, studying privatelyat Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory with Dr. GeorgeKiteley, performing in Case Western ReserveUniversity’s small group Jazz and Big Bandensembles. At CWRU, he participated in the Tri-CJazz Fest and was also a member of two popularCleveland 90's bands, Public Library and Five

Minutes Fast. Eric has been a backing drummer for jazz vocalists, Leah Natale andEvelyn Wright. He is a contributing writer for Drum! and DrumHead Magazine andhas interviewed numerous musicians, including Sheila E.

Brian Gaudino is the Director of Education for the Cleveland Classical GuitarSociety. Brian has taught guitar at levels from total beginners to undergraduateguitar majors. Brian was a faculty member at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette,where he taught classical and jazz guitar. As a performer, Brian earned first placeat the 2009 UL Lafayette Friends of Music Classical Guitar Competition and was therecipient of the Richard Neiheisel Phi Beta Kappa Endowed Graduate Award. He hasperformed in master classes with prominent guitarists such as Roland Dyens, AnaVidovic, and Christopher Parkening.

Jeff Slater earned his bachelor's of music in music theory and french horn atBaldwin-Wallace University and did master's work in classical and jazz music theoryat the University of Wisconsin at Madison and Truman State University. Jeff playsboth electric and upright bass and is well versed in all styles of jazz, R&B, rock, andworld music.

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Grant Green Jr. featuring Mike Clark$25.00$25.00 Thursday 2/28 8:00 pm Buy Tickets

Friday 3/01 8:30 pm Buy Tickets

Dynamic Soul Jazz Guitarist pays tribute to his legendary father Grant Green and

explores the Evolution of Funk live at Nighttown!

Featuring: Grant Green Jr.-guitar & vocals, Mike Clark-drums, more players TBA.

Grant Green Jr - As the son of legendary jazz guitarist Grant Green (1931-1979),Grant Green Jr. was exposed to exceptional musicianship right from the start.Growing up in Detroit, Grant enjoyed a constant parade of jazz greats streamingthrough his living room. His neighbors included Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder andGladys Knight, members of the Four Tops and the Temptations. Miles Davis wasknown to join impromptu jam sessions in their home. Grant Green Jr. has releasedmusic as part of the Godfathers Of Groove (w/Bernard Purdie), and is often seen aspart of Col. Bruce Hampton's band,

Mike Clark - Drum virtuoso and jazz musician Mike Clark gained worldwiderecognition as one of America’s foremost jazz and funk drummers while playingwith Herbie Hancock and The Headhunters in the early seventies. His incisiveplaying on Hancock’s “Actual Proof” garnered him an international cult following andinfluenced generations of drummers. His versatility led him to a two-year stint withBrand X, the British jazz/rock fusion band founded by Phil Collins. With them herecorded “Do They Hurt?” and “Product.”

Mike is a co-leader with several other artists. “The Wolff and Clark Expedition 2,”with pianist Michael Wolff, was considered one of Downbeat's Top 25 releases in2016. Along with Delbert Bump, he released "Retro Report," an organ trio CD, inApril 2018. He continues to tour with the Headhunters.

The Sacramento, CA native has recorded and toured with jazz greats HerbieHancock, Christian McBride, Chet Baker, John Scofield, Nicholas Payton, TonyBennett, Wayne Shorter, Joe Henderson, Eddie Henderson, Bobby Hutcherson,Vince Guaraldi, Woody Shaw, Donald Harrison, Albert King, Larry Coryell, MikeWolff, Wallace Roney, Billy Childs, Jack Walrath, Jack Wilkins, Dr. Lonnie Smith,Chris Potter, Bobby McFerrin, Nat Adderly, Oscar Brown Jr., and the Gil EvansOrchestra.

Along with James Brown's drummers Clyde Stubblefield and Jabo Stark, Mike's funkbeats with The Headhunters (most notably "God Make Me Funky") include some ofthe most sampled in hip hop history.

“He’s a great jazz drummer—and he hasn’t lost any of the stuff that he broughtfrom Oakland. So now he’s totally free to do both, and he does. The solo he playedon the album Thrust, on the song “Actual Proof,” is one of the best drum solos onany of my albums. So many people have remarked about that solo, saying,‘Incredible.’” - Herbie Hancock

https://ropeadope.com/grant-green-jr/

https://www.drummermikeclark.info/

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Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci $30.00$30.00 Saturday 3/02 7:00 pm Buy Tickets9:00 pm Buy Tickets

Guitarist extraordinaire and Legendary Contemporary Jazz Group hit the stage at

Nighttown! Playing music from their new CD "Deep as the Night" & more.

Featuring: Chieli Minucci-guitar, Lao Tizer-keyboards, Jerry Brooks-bass, & Tony

Lewis-drums.

Guitarist, composer, and arranger Chieli Minucci is longtime leader of the Grammy-nominated jazz-fusion group SPECIAL EFX, featuring Chieli Minucci. A major forceon the jazz and world music scene for 35 years, Chieli has recorded and released 31CDs. “Deep as the Night”, the title track from the band’s 2017-18 CD was recentlynamed the number one smooth jazz song for 2018 by Billboard Magazine. Themusic of Special EFX has been described as “accessible yet slightly experimentalmusic that combined…smooth jazz, rock, and various African and Latin rhythms”. Besides writing and performing his own music, Chieli shares his guitar brilliancethroughout the entertainment world. He has recorded and performed with manytop artists, such as Celine Dion, Lou Reed, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, Jewel, MarkAnthony, Michael Bolton, Eartha Kitt, Eddie Fisher, Anastasia, as well as jazz artistsKirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Bernie Williams, Marion Meadows, LaoTizer, Mindi Abair, Rick Braun, Gerald Veasley, Omar Hakim, and many others. Although renowned in the jazz and pop world, Chieli is also a gifted television andfilm composer. He has won 3 Emmy Awards and been nominated 10 times for hiseclectic compositional work. His music can also be heard on the soundtracks of thefilms Bowfinger, Legally Blonde, Panic, No Country For Old Men, and others. Chieli'soriginal scoring work can be heard in live stage productions of Peter Pan, Dora theExplorer, Thomas the Tank Engine, and others.

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Planning a reception, wedding, business meeting, graduation, birthday or B'nai Mitzvah?

. . . . . . . . .think Nighttown!

We give you the best package in town at a price that won't break thebank. And everything is included at no extra charge. Our experienceis as accommodating as our atmosphere. Private function spaces from20 - 150. Valet parking available.

To book your party, call Brendan Ring directly at 216-952-9133

Visit our Private Event Page

Nighttown uses Yamaha Pianos

exclusivelyFor more information about the Yamaha C-7,

The New Avant Grand Piano or any of the Yamaha pianos, Please contact Mattlin-Hyde at (440) 449-6180

Nighttown drums providedby

www.fortunedrums.com

Nighttown/JWP graphicdesigner

Kathy Kelly 216-941-5439

Gerry Paluck RPTRegistered PianoTuner/Technician(216) 346-9308

www.gerrythetuner.com

Recommended Places to StayIntercontinental Suites 216-707-4300

The Place on Larchmere 216- 721-8968University Circle Bed & Breakfast 216-721-8968

12387 Cedar Road (top of Cedar Hill)

Cleveland Heights, OH 216-795-0550

No need to make an additional table reservation -it's already included with your concert tickets!!

www.nighttowncleveland.comMap to Nighttown

Producers of All the Great Music atNighttown

Call us for Music for your Private Event216-721-5624 jwadsworth@aol.com

www.jwpagency.com

To Purchase Concert Tickets

No need to make an additional table

reservation - it's already included with your concert tickets!!

"Late Night at Nighttown"Fridays Jackie Warren on piano 10:30PM - 1:00AM No coverSaturdays Jackie Warren on piano 10:30PM - 1:00AM No cover

Thursday, January 24 Dominick Farinacci & Friends 8PM $20. Presented in Association with Tri-C Jazz Festival. Tri-C Jazz Fest will Announce their 2019 Jazz Festival Lineup on this night!Featuring: International Trumpet Star Dominick Farinacci & Several Special Guests from both NYC andCleveland!Featuring: Dominick Farinacci-trumpet, Patrick Barley-alto sax, Taber Gable-piano, Graeham Guerin-bass, Robert Hubbard-drums, & more TBA.Complete Show after Tri-C Lineup Announcement.

Friday, January 25 Badi Assad 8:30 PM $20.From Brazil! Dynamic and Exciting World Class Guitarist & Vocalist plays Cleveland for the first timeLive @ Nighttown!With Special Guest opening Act Moises Borges

Saturday, January 26 Benito Gonzalez International Trio (Tribute to McCoy Tyner) 8:30 PM $20.From Venezuela! Piano Master plays music from his new CD "Passion, Reverence, Transcendence,The Music of McCoy Tyner" Featuring: Benito Gonzalez-piano (Venezuela), Peter Dominguez-acoustic bass (USA), & FranciscoMela-drums (Cuba).

Sunday, January 27 Benito Gonzalez & Jackie Warren 7 PM $20.International Summit Meeting with Two Latin Jazz Masters on Piano Live at Nighttown!Featuring: Benito Gonzalez-piano (Venezuela), & Jackie Warren-piano (USA).

Thursday, January 31 University of Dayton Big Band 7:30 PM $10.Top Notch College Big Band from SW Ohio Live on Nighttown's Stage.Under the Direction of Dr. Willie Morris.

Friday & Saturday, February 1 & 2 Diego Figueiredo & Camille Bertault 8:30 PM (bothnights) $25.World Class Summit Meeting with Dynamic Brazilian Guitarist and French Vocalist Extraordinaire Liveat Nighttown!

Back by Popular Demand!

Monday, Feb. 4 The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra 6 & 8 PM $50.One Night Only!The Top Big Band in Jazz! The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra are returning to the NighttownStage!!Directed by Scotty Barnhart. With Special Guest Vocalist Vanessa Rubin.Playing music from their brand new Grammy Nominated CD "All About that Basie".Voted Top Big Band in Downbeat's 2018 Readers Poll!

Tuesday, February 5 Beppe Gambetta 7 PM $20. From Italy! Master of Flatpicking Guitar Beppe Gambetta returns to Nighttown!

Friday, February 8 Marcus Johnson 8:30 PM $25.Piano/Keyboard & Master Composer from Washington DC returns to Nighttown! With Robert Hubbard& Hubb's Groove!

Saturday, February 9 Planned Parenthood Benefit featuring Nellie McKay 7:30PM $125 donation.Singer Songwriter, Pianist, & Comedienne plays Music from her Brand New CD "Sister Orchid" &more! Special benefit for Planned Parenthood.

Sunday, February 10 Rory Block 7 PM $20.Legendary Guitarist, Vocalist, & Acoustic Blues Master hits the Nighttown Stage for Special SoloShow!

Tuesday, February 12 Jackie Warren Trio 7 PM $15.North Coast Pianist Extraordinaire and her Trio light up the Nighttown Stage for a Pre Valentine'sCelebration!Featuring: Jackie Warren-piano, Dave Morgan-acoustic bass, & Jim Rupp-drums.

Wednesday-Thursday, Feb. 13-14 Nellie McKay 7pm Wed, 8pm Thurs $30.Special Valentine's Day Celebrations!Singer Songwriter, Pianist, & Comedienne plays Music from her Brand New CD "Sister Orchid" &more! Live on the Nighttown Stage!

Thursday, February 14 Reggie Kelly & David Thomas Trio 7:30 PM $15.On Nighttown's Fully Covered and Heated Stephen's Green Patio.Dynamic Vocalist and Actor of Karamu House Reggie Kelly hits the stage for Special Valentine's DayShow at Nighttown! Featuring: Reggie Kelly-vocals, David Thomas-piano & keys, Kip Reed-bass, & Myron Gardner-drums.

Thursday, February 14 Reggie Kelly & David Thomas Trio 7:30 PM $15. OnNighttown's Fully Covered and Heated Stephen's Green Patio. Dynamic Vocalist and Actor of KaramuHouse Reggie Kelly hits the stage for Special Valentine's Day Show at Nighttown! Featuring: Reggie Kelly-vocals, David Thomas-piano & keys, Kip Reed-bass, & Myron Gardner-drums.Saturday, February 16 Sugar Mountain "The Ultimate Neil Young Tribute" 8:30 PM $20.From New Jersey. Top Flight 5 Piece Group from NJ Pays Tribute to Rock Legend Neil Young Live atNighttown!

Sunday, February 17 Tim Lekan Quartet 7 PM $10.North Coast Acoustic Bass Master leads Quartet at Nighttown!Featuring: Tim Lekan-acoustic bass, Dan Maier-piano, Tom First-saxophone, & Donnie Patterson-drums.

Wednesday, February 20 Jamey Haddad Quartet featuring Dominick Farinacci & Alain

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Mallet 7 PM $20.Drum and Percussion Master from Paul Simon's Band leads All-Star International Quartet Live onNighttown's Stage!Featuring: Jamey Haddad-drums & percussion, Dominick Farinacci-trumpet, Alain Mallet-piano, & KipReed-bass.

Thursday, February 21 " An Evening of Oscar Winning Songs" w/Robb Sapp, Lindsey Mitchell,& Sami Kennett 8 PM $25.Oscar Winning Songs in the Spotlight with Top Notch Dynamic Vocalists!Featuring: Rob Sapp-vocals, Lindsey Mitchell-vocals, Sami Kennett-vocals, & Bob Navis Jr.-piano &musical director.Hosted by Michael Estwanik of American Songbook Today.

Friday, February 22 Hubb's Groove Tribute to Aretha Franklin 8 & 10 PM $20.Drummer Robert Hubbard & Hubb's Groove pay Tribute to the Queen of Soul for Two Big Shows!Featured Vocalists: Pat Harris, Stacey Crawford (Sarah's Girl), & more TBA.

Sunday, February 24 Dominick Farinacci - "Spirit of the Groove" 7 PM $20.International Trumpet Star with All-Star Next Generation Lineup for Special Show at Nighttown!

Monday, February 25 Baldwin Wallace Musical Theater 7 PM $10.Next Generation of Broadway Stars live at Nighttown!

Tuesday, February 26 Ethnic Heritage Ensemble 7 PM $20.Legendary Cutting Edge Group hits the Stage at Nighttown! EHE now in its 45th Year!Featuring: Kahil El'Zabar-multi percussion & composer, Corey Wilkes-trumpet, & Alex Harding-sax.

Wednesday, February 27 Eric Everett Jazz Quintet featuring Charlene Smythe 7PM $10.North Coast Drummer leads Exciting Group featuring Vocalist Charlene Smythe from the Jerry GarciaBand and the Melvin Seals Band!Featuring: Eric Everett-drums, Charlene Smythe-vocals, Paul Kelner-piano/keys, Brian Gaudino-guitar, & Jeff Slater-bass.

Thursday & Friday, Feb. 28 & March 1 Grant Green Jr. featuring Mike Clark 8 PMThursday, 8:30 PM Friday $25.Dynamic Soul Jazz Guitarist pays tribute to his legendary father Grant Green and explores theEvolution of Funk live at Nighttown!Featuring: Grant Green Jr.-guitar & vocals, Mike Clark-drums, more players TBA.

Saturday, March 2 Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci 7 & 9 PM $30.Guitarist extraordinaire and Legendary Contemporary Jazz Group hit the stage at Nighttown! Playingmusic from their CD "Deep as the Night" & more!.Featuring: Chieli Minucci-guitar, Lao Tizer-keyboards, Jerry Brooks-bass, & Tony Lewis-drums.

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