Upcoming Events
Jazz at Jackson - Fat Produce
Fat Produce
Soul-Jazz Trio
Personnel
Addison Rifkind, guitar
Michael Duffy, drums
Vince DuPont, bass
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Fat Produce is a Miami-based soul jazz trio led by Studio City, CA natives, guitarist Addison Rifkind and drummer Michael Duffy. This duo, alongside upright bass, is a guaranteed head-nodder whose live set includes a fresh mix of original compositions and deep cuts from the hip-hop, soul, and jazz crates. Taking inspiration from the past, Fat Produce breathes new life into the guitar trio format and unearths a modern musical vocabulary encompassing the past 70 years of musical heritage while keeping it funky and groove focused.
Jazz at Jackson - David Galli Band
David Galli
Jazz Saxophonist
Personnel
David Galli, saxophone
Mitch Mattox, drums
Angel Perez, piano
ABOUT THE ARTIST
David Galli is a Miami-based saxophonist, keyboardist, and composer. Combining influence from jazz, R&B, and classical traditions, he and his band provide an exciting experience in improvisational music. Being a South Florida native, David has been performing in venues all over the state since the age of 12. As a sideman, he has toured around the country with various projects, performed at the Havana International Jazz Festival, and shared the stage with local giants like Stephen Scott. He is a graduate of University of Miami’s Frost School of Music where he studied under Gary Keller, Patrick Bartley, Mark Small, Troy Roberts, and Marcus Strickland.
JAZZMIA Nights - Addison Rifkind Quartet
Addison Rifkind
Blues, Soul, & Bebop Guitarist
PERSONNEL
Addison Rifkind, guitar
Mark Small, tenor saxophone
Jim Gasior, organ
Brandon Lee Lewis, drums
Performance - 7:30pm-8:30pm
Jam Session - 8:30pm-9:00pm
*Tickets available at the door and online. Free for students and jamming musicians!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Addison Rifkind is a guitarist and bandleader from Studio City, CA based in Miami, FL. His unique style is rooted in the blues, soul, and bebop with deep grooves and melodic playing as its emphasis. Some of Addison’s most notable projects are Fat Produce, The Glades, Soul Vaccinators and the Silver Bluff Blues Band. He is also one of the rotating guitarists for organ groove band Scone Cash Players. Addison’s music has been featured on BBC Radio on Iggy Pop’s “Iggy Confidential"“ and “The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show” as well as on Serius XM Phish Radio and on NPR affiliates throughout the country. Addison’s records (Fresh Squeeze, Soulful Days, The Glades) were released on FSpot Records in Los Angeles, CA and Tiki Tumbao in Boca Raton, FL and can be found in record stores nationwide as well as in the U.K. and Japan.
As a performer, Addison holds residencies at the most highly regarded destinations in Miami such as Medium Cool, Lagniappe, Soho House, The Cleat. He currently tours with Fat Produce and has performed in some of the nations best clubs; Gold-Diggers (Los Angeles), Black Cat (San Francisco), Uncle Cheef (Brewster), C-Boys Heart and Soul (Austin), Boom Boom Room (San Francisco), Moe’s Alley (Santa Cruz), Cafe Stritch (San Jose), SLO Brew (San Luis Obispo), The Crocodile (Seattle), Red’s (Clarksdale), Ground Zero Blues Club (Biloxi), Baby J’s (Gainesville), Ile Ife (New Orleans). Addison has also performed at the Clearwater Jazz Festival, The Shabang, and the San Jose Winter Jazz Fest and is slated to perform at the Jazz in June festival in Norman, OK in 2026.
In addition to performing, Addison is the jazz guitar instructor at Miami-Dade College Wolfson. He received his B.A. from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and his M.M. in jazz performance at San Jose State University.
Jazz at Jackson - Trenton Klaz Group
Trenton Klaz
Contemporary Pianist
Personnel
Trenton Klaz, piano
Luigi Arredondo, saxophone
Jonathan Orriols, guitar
Ruben Espinoa, bass
Marvin Clairsaint, drums
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Based in Miami, Florida, Trenton Klaz is a highly accomplished pianist, composer, educator and bandleader known for his exceptional talent and versatility. With a strong foundation in classical training, Trenton has excelled in the art of piano, keyboards, and synthesizers, captivating audiences with his virtuosity and creative interpretations of jazz standards. Drawing inspiration from legends such as Chick Corea, Bill Evans, Michel Camilo, Jan Hammer and Shaun Martin, Trenton has developed a distinctive fusion of Jazz, Latin, rock and classical genres.
Trenton holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Florida, where he honed his piano technique under the guidance of Dr. Kevin Sharpe and studied jazz improvisation with Scott Wilson. Furthering his passion for jazz, Trenton attended the prestigious Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, earning both a Master of Music and a Doctorate of Musical Arts. While at Frost, Trenton studied under renowned pianists including Martin Bejerano, Shelly Berg, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Alex Brown, Kemuel Roig, and Tal Cohen.
An avid performer, Trenton has showcased his talent in reputable festivals, jazz series, and stages such as the 4th annual Pompano Beach Jazz Festival with Luigi Arredondo, the Reilly Noir Jazz Series at the Ocala Reilly Arts Center, the Hippodrome Jazz Series at the Hippodrome Theater, the 16th Gainesville Jazz Festival with the tour-de-force fusion group Mindwalk, Tom Petty Weekend at Heartwood Soundstage, and the Miami Beach Bandshell with indie singersongwriter Ryan Cooper. Trenton has had the honor of opening for and performing with many esteemed artists including Michel Camilo, Felipe Lamoglia, Dafnis Prieto, Brian Lynch, Maria Schneider, Troy Roberts, Dumpstaphunk, Karina Rykman, Wycliffe Gordon, Bobby Shew, Rex Richardson, Brazilian Voices and the Glenn Miller Orchestra.
Jazz at Jackson - The G.G. Collective Quartet
The G.G. Collective Quartet
Izzi Guzman - Jazz Trombonist
Personnel
Izzi Guzman, trombone
Michael Gaspari, keyboards
Diego Clavixus, electric Bass
Alex Maciulewicz, drums
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Izzi Guzman is a dynamic trombonist, composer, arranger, and educator sharing joy, creativity, and authenticity through music. Based in Miami, FL, she strives to bring stories to life through her art and foster accessible and creativity-rooted music education for the next generation.
Praised for her vibrant sound and technical prowess, Izzi has performed with renowned groups including the John Daversa Big Band, Frost Jazz Orchestra, and Florida Wind Symphony Jazz Orchestra. She has collaborated and shared the stage with jazz legends such as John Daversa, Jazzmeia Horn, Brian Lynch, Danilo Pérez, Etienne Charles, Christian McBride, Marcus Strickland, and Jaleel Shaw, cementing her place in the jazz world. She is the bass trombonist for the Miami Pixel Symphony and regularly performs across Miami in various ensembles and genres.
Izzi was a featured performer at the 2025 South Beach Jazz Festival, where she was a 2024 scholarship recipient, and the 2019 Newport Jazz Festival with the Berklee Global Jazz Institute Workshop. In 2025, Izzi was selected among college students across the United States to participate in the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Academy, directed by Christian McBride and Chuck Bergeron. At the Academy, she played lead trombone in the JAS Academy Big Band and was a founding member of a jazz octet, Moose on the Loose. In 2024, Izzi was a part of the Kenny Wheeler Legacy Project with the Frost Jazz Orchestra and Royal Academy of Music Jazz Orchestra, recording Some Days Are Better: The Lost Scores at Abbey Road Studios with John Daversa, Nick Smart, Shelly Berg, Evan Parker and Norma Winstone. Izzi’s versatility as a performer is matched by her ability to bring her own voice to each musical setting, unbound by genre.
JAZZMIA Nights - Tal Cohen Trio
Tal Cohen
Internationally-Acclaimed Jazz Pianist
PERSONNEL
Tal Cohen, piano
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Jonathan Ziegler, drums
Performance - 7:30pm-8:30pm
Jam Session - 8:30pm-9:00pm
*Tickets available at the door and online. Free for students and jamming musicians!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
"The Tal Cohen Trio manages to combine complex, modern jazz concepts with graceful phrasing, thoughtful development and honest expression. The original ideas, high level of communication and spontaneity of the group is a breath of fresh air and proof that jazz has a bright future” – David Manson, Director of EMIT & the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival
"Tal Cohen is among the best of a very few young inspired pianists I’ve encountered in my travels… Tal’s playing is full of passion, focus and creativity”- Joe Lovano
"Tal winning the Detroit Jazz Festivals 2019 Barry Harris National Piano Competition is testament to the success of this initiative in seeking out truly outstanding voices in the jazz world today" - Chris Collins, Artistic Director, Detroit Jazz Festival
Jazz at Jackson - Jon Ziegler
Jon Ziegler
Jazz Drummer/Producer
Personnel
Jonathan Ziegler, drums
Brenten Handfield, drums
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Leo Folsom, synths
Daniel Bulatkin, piano
ABOUT THE ARTIST
TBD
Jazz at Jackson - Mateo Montes Barahona
Mateo Montes Barahona
Colombian Jazz Drummer
Personnel
Daniel Bulatkin - Piano (Czech Republic)
Joshua Ewers - Bass (U.S.A.)
Mateo Montes - Drum Set (Colombia)
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Mateo Montes is a drummer and percussionist from Colombia.
With an unmistakable relationship with the folklore of the different regions of Colombia, Mateo has developed a way of playing that is intrinsically linked to this traditional music. The result is its unique, mestizo sound. Because of his versatility, his passion for different instruments, and his knowledge of percussion instruments, he knows how to create his own interpretation and modern approach to Colombian music and modern Jazz. He earned his bachelor’s degree in music from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam in the Netherlands and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in jazz performance at the Frost School of Music under drummer and composer Dafnis Prieto. In 2024, he earned the Central Bank of Colombia’s graduate-study-abroad scholarship, awarded to a single recipient among nearly 100 applicants.
KEEP YOUR HEAD UP TO THE SKY! Celebrating and continuing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sunshine Jazz Organization and Jazz Music-in-Action Present:
KEEP YOUR HEAD UP TO THE SKY!
Celebrating and continuing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Produced by Nicole Yarling. Performances featuring an All-Star line-up of South Florida Jazz Musicians.
Jazz at Jackson - Rafael Aldama Chiroles
Rafa Aldama Chiroles
Cuban Jazz Bassist
PERSONNEL
Rafa Aldama Chiroles, bass
TBD, drums
TBD, piano
Performance - 12:00pm-1:15pm
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Rafael Aldama Chiroles was born on August 24, 1995 in Havana, Cuba, into a humble family. Since he was a child he became passionate about music and studied at the Conservatory of Havana "Paulita Concepción" at the elementary level, specializing in classical double bass. Then he continued his studies at the middle level at the "Amadeo Roldán" school, also in classical double bass, and graduated from the "Guillermo Tomás" school in Reparto Guanabacoa.
After completing his studies, he began his career playing the electric bass with Cuban singer Daymée Rosena, participating in international festivals such as Glastonbury, Heritage and WOMAD in Australia. He has also collaborated with other artists, such as Cimafunk, with whom he has played with at several international festivals.
Jazz at Jackson - Marcelo Camacho
Marcelo Camacho
Jazz Drummer/Composer
PERSONNEL
Marcelo Camacho, drums
Connor Rohrer, piano
Samuel Burgos, bass
Performance - 12:00pm-1:15pm
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Born in Havana, Cuba in 1998, Marcelo Camacho is a drummer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist whose music bridges jazz, Afro-Cuban tradition, and contemporary sound. Raised between Cuba, Spain, and the United States, his artistic voice reflects a life shaped by movement, cultural exchange, and a deep connection to rhythm, texture, and melodic storytelling.
A self-taught drummer from early childhood, he later studied jazz drumset at the University of Miami under Steve Rucker and Dafnis Prieto. He has performed with the Dafnis Prieto Big Band, Caracas Trio, and other leading ensembles, and has appeared on stages such as Carnegie Hall. His work has been presented in New York City’s top jazz clubs, as well as throughout Cuba, Miami, and Madrid, performing his original music across international jazz scenes.
Beyond the drumset, Marcelo Camacho is an active guitarist, pianist, composer, and producer. He has collaborated with some of the most prominent young jazz musicians from both Cuba and the United States, creating projects that intentionally blend both musical worlds. He is currently presenting music from his upcoming album, recently recorded in Cuba, featuring original compositions that reflect this cross-cultural, modern Afro-Cuban jazz language.
JAZZMIA Nights - Marcelo Camacho
Marcelo Camacho
Jazz Drummer/Composer
PERSONNEL
Marcelo Camacho, drums
Connor Rohrer, piano
Samuel Burgos, bass
Performance - 7:30pm-8:30pm
Jam Session - 8:30pm-9:00pm
*Tickets available at the door. Free for students and jamming musicians!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Born in Havana, Cuba in 1998, Marcelo Camacho is a drummer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist whose music bridges jazz, Afro-Cuban tradition, and contemporary sound. Raised between Cuba, Spain, and the United States, his artistic voice reflects a life shaped by movement, cultural exchange, and a deep connection to rhythm, texture, and melodic storytelling.
A self-taught drummer from early childhood, he later studied jazz drumset at the University of Miami under Steve Rucker and Dafnis Prieto. He has performed with the Dafnis Prieto Big Band, Caracas Trio, and other leading ensembles, and has appeared on stages such as Carnegie Hall. His work has been presented in New York City’s top jazz clubs, as well as throughout Cuba, Miami, and Madrid, performing his original music across international jazz scenes.
Beyond the drumset, Marcelo Camacho is an active guitarist, pianist, composer, and producer. He has collaborated with some of the most prominent young jazz musicians from both Cuba and the United States, creating projects that intentionally blend both musical worlds. He is currently presenting music from his upcoming album, recently recorded in Cuba, featuring original compositions that reflect this cross-cultural, modern Afro-Cuban jazz language.
Jazz at Jackson - Lucas Apostoleris Trio
LUCAS APOSTOLERIS
Jazz Drummer/Composer
Personnel
Lucas Apostoleris, drums
Mike Ramos, bass
Connor Rohrer, piano
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Born and raised in New England, Lucas Apostoleris is a drummer and composer residing in Miami. He has performed with artists such as Walter Smith, Fabian Almazan, Troy Roberts, Martin Bejerano, and Dave Liebman, and he plays regularly with a variety of ensembles in South Florida. He has released three albums of original music with his own ensemble, most recently “It’s Been Good” in 2024. He is currently a lecturer at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music.
JAZZMIA Nights - The South Florida Jazz Orchestra Presents Lisanne Lyons
The South Florida Jazz Orchestra Presents Lisanne Lyons
Celebrating the release of her new CD!
The South Florida Jazz Orchestra is the premier modern big band in the greater Miami area, comprised of the best jazz artists and studio musicians in South Florida, and directed by renowned bassist Chuck Bergeron. In addition to performing repertoire from their own critically-acclaimed recordings, the "SFJO" has presented many world-renowned artists in concert over the last 22 years.
A truly eclectic collection of GRAMMY®-winners and jazz luminaries have performed with the band, including the likes of Randy Brecker, Janis Seigel, Arturo Sandoval, Wycliffe Gordon, Kevin Mahogany, Tom Scott, Eddie Daniels, Nicole Yarling, Jamie Davis, Ed Calle, Brian Lynch, John Fedchock, Ira Sullivan, Rick Margitza, Antonio Adolfo, and Ken Pepslowski.
The band’s latest release – Cheap Thrills – features Miles Davis alumnus Rick Margitza, along with GRAMMY® award-winner Brian Lynch, and highly acclaimed artists John Hart and Martin Bejerano. The band’s mission is to continue to produce and promote great artists and modern jazz throughout South Florida.
Performance - 7:30pm-9:00pm
$30 Tickets, Free entry for students! Tickets are available online or at the door.
*This performance is sponsored in part by Ed Blanco*
Jazz at Jackson - BURGUNDEE
Burgundee
RnB, Jazz, Neo-Soul
PERSONNEL
Beatriz Gusman, voice
Andrew Amengor, keyboards
Sergio Zavala, guitar
Juan Moreno, bass
Victor Sanchez, drums
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Burgundee, a living amalgamation of RnB, Jazz, and Neo-Soul from Miami, Fl is a five-piece collective currently redefining the standards for both live & recorded music by leaving their multi-genre landscape.
The captivating vocal stylings of lead singer Beatriz Guzman are colored by the imaginative musical choices made by keyboardist Andrew Amengor and guitarist Sergio Zavala while bassist Juan Moreno and drummer Victor Sanchez lay out their infectious grooves.
Jazz at Jackson - Mikailo Kasha Quartet
MIKAILO KASHA
Jazz Bassist?
PERSONNEL
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Dayna Stephens, saxophone
Connor Rohrer, piano
Jon Ziegler, drums
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Mikailo Kasha is an award-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader based in Miami, Florida. Currently considered to be among “the top 1% of bassists worldwide”, as stated by Scotty Barnhart of the Count Basie Orchestra, Kasha is a dynamic bandleader, versatile sideman, and a prodigious voice on both upright and electric bass.
JAZZMIA Nights - Mikailo Kasha ALBUM RELEASE ft. Dayna Stephens
“WE HAVE JAZZ AT HOME” Album Release
Mikailo Kasha featuring Dayna Stephens
PERSONNEL
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Dayna Stephens, saxophone
Connor Rohrer, piano
Jon Ziegler, drums
Performance - 7:30pm-8:30pm
Jam Session - 8:30pm-9:00pm
$30 Tickets, Free entry for students & jamming musicians! Tickets are available online or at the door.
Mikailo Kasha is an award-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader based in Miami, Florida. Currently considered to be among “the top 1% of bassists worldwide”, as stated by Scotty Barnhart of the Count Basie Orchestra, Kasha is a dynamic bandleader, versatile sideman, and a prodigious voice on both upright and electric bass.
Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Kasha is an alumnus of renowned incubator programs including the SFJAZZ High School All-Stars, San Jose Jazz All Stars, and the Stanford Jazz Institute. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music from Florida State University, studying under bassist Rodney Jordan and pianist Marcus Roberts, and completed a Master’s in Jazz Performance at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. He is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in Live Entertainment Management at Frost.
A three-time DownBeat student award winner, Kasha received the 2022 “Jazz Soloist” award in the graduate division and an “Outstanding Performance” award for his trio. He also earned an Outstanding Soloist award in 2019. Kasha has been mentored by leading jazz figures such as Rufus Reid (Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute), Christian McBride (Jazz Aspen’s JAS Academy), Ben Wendel (Siena Jazz Workshop), and Maria Schneider (Generations Workshop, Switzerland).
In 2024, Kasha premiered the music from his upcoming record at the Stanford Jazz Festival with his working trio featuring star saxophonist Dayna Stephens. He has also appeared at festivals like San Jose Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, and hallowed Bay Area venues like Café Stritch, SFJazz, Mr. Tipples, and Club Deluxe. As a sideman, Kasha has collaborated with Nestor Torres, Nick Finzer, Dave Meder, Stephen Scott, and Sal Valentinetti.
Beyond performance, Kasha is deeply committed to jazz education and community leadership. He serves as the Executive Director of the Miami Jazz Cooperative, is on faculty at the Stanford Jazz Workshop, and leads the High School Honors Jazz Combo at Miami Country Day School.
Jazz at Jackson - MELVYS
MELVYS
Pop/Rock/Jazz Vocalist
Personnel
Melvys Barrios, vocals
Alex Hernandez, bass
Tom Lippincott, guitar
Enrique Pulley, drums
About The Artist
Melvys Barrios is a dynamic music educator and accomplished performer with over ten years of experience as a multi-instrumentalist, specializing in pop, rock, jazz, and original compositions.
Renowned for a high retention rate and a reputation for excellence, Melvys is deeply passionate about music and committed to making a positive impact in the musical community. Constantly striving to hone her craft, learn new skills, and collaborate with others, Melvys seeks opportunities for personal and professional growth while sharing her love of music and art with the world; she is currently pursuing a Masters of Music at Florida International University.
JAZZMIA Nights - FIU Jazz Vocal Performance Students with Ashley Pezzotti
FIU Jazz Vocal Performance Students
Performance made possible by the Miami-Dade Dept. of Cultural Affairs
Join us for an evening of jazz featuring the next generation of vocal talent! Ashley Pezzotti presents members of the FIU Vocal Jazz Program backed by the powerhouse talents of Matt Wigler, Vince DuPont, and Gabriel Landa.
PERSONNEL
Featuring FIU Jazz Vocal Performance Students Under the direction of Ashley Pezzotti
House Band
Matt Wigler, piano
Vince DuPont, bass
Gabriel Landa, drums
Performance - 7:30pm-8:30pm
Jam Session - 8:30pm-9:00pm
$30 Tickets, Free entry for students & jamming musicians! Tickets are available online or at the door.
*This performance made possible by the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs Community Grants Program*
Jazz at Jackson - Max Milian
MAX MILIAN
Contemporary Pianist/Vocalist
Personnel
Max Milian, keyboard & vocals
Mike McGarril, tenor saxophone
Mikailo Kasha, electric bass
Emmanuel Reid, drums
About The Artist
Max Milian is a pianist, vocalist, music director, and arranger born and raised in Miami, Florida. He received his Bachelor of Music degree with a concentration in Commercial Music at the South Carolina School of the Arts at Anderson University in the spring of 2022. Since 2022, he has served as the Director of Contemporary Worship at Granada Church in Coral Gables. Since 2023, he has served as the music director for the musical theatre productions at Westminster Christian School, his alma mater. Max’s debut album, Authenticity, is a collection of reimagined pop covers ranging from The Beatles to Childish Gambino, and is available on all streaming platforms.
When not in Miami, Max can be found performing with his wife, vocalist Kyra Milian, as a guest entertainer aboard Azamara Cruises. His transcription skills have earned him work with Christina Aguilera, Anitta, Elena Rose, Mau Y Ricky, CNCO, Jay Wheeler, and many others across Latin pop and contemporary music. Known for his energy, dedication, and attention to detail, Max approaches every performance with a spirit of excellence and service.
Jazz at Jackson - Dylan McHann
Dylan McHann
Jazz Saxophonist
Personnel
Dylan McHann, saxophone
Connor Rohrer, piano
Vince Dupont, bass
Sam Hart, drums
About The Artist
Dylan McHann is an accomplished saxophonist and composer based in Miami, Florida, with a deep-rooted passion for jazz that began in his hometown of St. Petersburg. A graduate of the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, Dylan honed his craft under the guidance of some of the most respected jazz educators in the world. Since then, he has performed at some of the most prestigious venues and festivals in the U.S. and abroad, including Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola and the Monterey Jazz Festival.
With a sound that honors the legacy of jazz greats like Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane, Dylan offers a fresh, contemporary perspective on the genre. His music is known for its intricate improvisations, original compositions, and dynamic energy, making him a perfect fit for venues seeking both intimate and high-energy jazz performances.
Dylan is a regular presence in Miami’s vibrant jazz scene, where he connects with audiences through his expressive playing and diverse musical range. Whether performing in an intimate club setting or a large festival, his artistry and passion for the craft shine through, creating unforgettable experiences for listeners.
JAZZMIA Nights - LeNard Rutledge Quartet
LeNard Rutledge
Jazz Vocalist
PERSONNEL
LeNard Rutledge, voice
Angel Perez, piano
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Gabriel Landa, drums
Performance - 7:30pm-8:30pm
Jam Session - 8:30pm-9:00pm
$30 Tickets, Free entry for students & jamming musicians!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
LeNard Rutledge, born and raised in Miami, Florida, where there are only a handful of truly great jazz vocalists, is usually compared, aptly, to the legendary Lou Rawls. Like Rawls, Rutledge's classy elegance is often permeated by the raw passion of his church choir work. In fact Rutledge still sings with the choir at The Church of The Incarnation.
Rutledge began not as a vocalist but as a percussionist, playing in the marching and concert band at Miami Central Senior High, and later making his income while attending Saint Augustine's University in Raleigh, North Carolina. He began his vocal career in 1997, when he was asked to join the famed Melton Mustafa Orchestra after returning to Miami. LeNard was the featured vocalist for Melton Mustafa for seven years.
In 2002, Rutledge was introduced to the music director of The Van Dyke Café's, Don Wilner, who immediately recognized Rutledge's talent and began giving him regular performance dates. LeNard has shared the stage with a number of highly respectable jazz artists such as: Wycliffe Gordon, Kenny Drew Jr., Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kirk Whalum, Marion Meadows and the late George Duke.
MJC x Jazz Music-In-Action Presents: Back-To-School Bash Jam Session!
The Miami Jazz Cooperative is back in full swing, and we’re kicking things off with a Back-to-School Bash like no other! We’re bringing together beloved MJC staples like Matt Wigler and Gary Keller, alongside fresh talent such as Claudens Louis and Mikailo Kasha, for an unforgettable evening of music.
Professional musicians and students alike are invited to join us onstage for an open jam session that will keep the energy soaring. We’re thrilled to return to the Westchester Cultural Arts Center, and even more excited about our continued partnership with Miami-Dade County and the Roxy Theatre Group to make this community celebration possible.
Sunday, August 24th @ The Westchester Cultural Arts Center
7930 Southwest 40th Street, Miami, FL 33155
Doors - 4:30pm, Show - 5:00pm-6:30pm
Tickets: $30 for General Admission, Free Entry for Students and Jamming Musicians. Beverages and light bites will be available for purchase.
House Band:
Matt Wigler, piano
Jim Gasior, piano
Gary Keller, saxophone
Claudens Louis, saxophone
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Gabriel Landa, drums
Jon Ziegler, drums
SUMMER SESSIONS: Eliana Joy Quartet
ELIANA JOY
Desert Vocalist
PERSONNEL
Eliana Joy, vocals
Matt Wigler, piano
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Sam Hart, drums
Born and raised in the American Southwest, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Eliana Joy offers an expressively emotional sensitivity to audiences and collaborators alike. Following her graduation from Arizona State University, Eliana spent a season in the Santa Fe Opera’s media department. She then moved to Brooklyn and swiftly established herself in the jazz scene, combining her eclectic influences to explore The Great American Songbook as a medium of storytelling and social connection.
As a member of the Women in Jazz Organization’s Mentors Program, she studied with New York Voices member Lauren Kinhan. She has played across the country in iconic venues like Ornithology and Pete’s Candy Store in Brooklyn, NY, The Mine Shaft Tavern in Madrid, NM, and The Century Room in Tucson, AZ. Now based in Santa Fe, NM, Eliana performs actively as a solo singer-songwriter, an enthusiastic bandleader, and a frequent guest with the indie/folk project Lamby--all in the outrageously southwestern setting of sculpture galleries, wine gardens, and tourist trains.
SUMMER SESSIONS: Aidan McCarthy’s Miami Send-Off
Aidan McCarthy
Bassist On The Rise
PERSONNEL
Adam Lord, tenor sax, bass clarinet
Joshua Polion, trumpet
Aidan McCarthy, upright bass
Jacob Smith, drums
Aidan McCarthy is a bassist and composer hailing from Oakland, California. An impassioned musician of eclectic interests, Aidan plays a wide range of musical styles on the acoustic and electric bass.
Growing up amidst the vibrant musical landscape of the Bay Area, Aidan cut his teeth on the local scene, ultimately gaining admittance to nationally acclaimed jazz programs such as Carnegie Hall’s NYO Jazz Band and the Vail Summer Jazz Workshop while in high school.
Aidan had the distinct opportunity to spend an incredibly formative year studying with the great John Clayton, bassist, composer, and pedagogue. Aidan has performed professionally with jazz luminaries such as Jazzmeia Horn, Samara Joy, Miguel Zenon, Brian Lynch, Paquito D’Rivera, Ingrid Jensen, Etienne Charles, Sean Jones, Ulysses Owens Jr., Allison Miller, Melissa Aldana, Carl Allen, Kemuel Roig, Faye Carol, etc.
Internationally, Aidan has performed in Singapore, Japan, Ecuador, Switzerland, and Italy. Nationally, he has appeared at Birdland, Dizzy’s Club Cola, and The Festival of New Trumpet Music in New York City, along with Boxley’s Jazz Club in Seattle, The Faena Theater in Miami Florida, The Ringling Theatre in Sarasota, etc. Aidan is currently a senior at the University of Miami, finishing up his undergraduate degree in Media Scoring and Production, with a focus on Jazz Bass Performance, with a minor in French Language Studies.
Thomas Wenglinski Undecet
THOMAS WENGLINSKI
Composer Extraordinaire
PERSONNEL
Thomas Wenglinski, keyboards
Jacob Batchelder, trumpet
Austin Muthyala, trumpet
Kate Hammann, trumpet
Pablo Muller, trombone
Sam Keedy, trombone
Allie Biancoviso, trombone
Eric Law, saxophone
Jason Arkins, saxophone
Ben Mini, bass
Brenten Handfield, drums
featuring guest vocalist Maria Alejandra Quintanilla
ABOUT THOMAS WENGLINSKI
Thomas Wenglinski is an award-winning composer, arranger, and pianist currently based in Miami, Florida. Originally hailing from suburban Houston, he moved to Austin in 2016 to pursue a degree in Jazz Composition at the University of Texas under the direction of John Mills and Jeff Hellmer. After a vibrant four years studying, performing and writing music in Central Texas, he headed east to the University of Miami in 2020, where he has since completed his Masters Degree and currently pursues a D.M.A. under the direction of Stephen Guerra. He currently maintains a strong connection to Austin's music community, and in 2021 he co-founded the critically acclaimed Christian Wiggs Big Band with its titular leader and vocalist.
Thomas has performed with and/or arranged for such artists as Anat Cohen, Tom Scott, Joe Lovano, Christian Wiggs, Randy Brecker, Lisa Fischer, Christopher Cross, Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, BluMoon, and numerous others. He regularly cites Stevie Wonder, Genevieve Artadi, Vince Mendoza, Thom Bell, and Thad Jones as crucial influences.
Noam Makover
NOAM MAKOVER
Rising Trumpeter & Composer
PERSONNEL
Noam Makover, trumpet
David Galli, alto sax
Angel Perez, piano
Patrick Leavy, bass
Marvin Clairsaint, drums
ABOUT NOAM MAKOVER
Noam Makover is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer based in Miami, Florida. Noam received his bachelors of music at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, where he studied with jazz legend Brian Lynch, and then stayed for his masters in Studio Jazz Writing, where he was a teaching assistant for jazz violinist and vocalist Nicole Yarling. Noam has written extensively for jazz ensembles, big bands, and orchestras, and has written under the direction of Maria Schneider. He now works as a performer, writer, and educator in the South Florida music scene.
Jake Hart / John Hart Trio
PERSONNEL
Jake Hart, piano
John Hart, guitar
Bill Moring, bass
Rudy Petschauer drums
ABOUT
Pianist and composer Jake Hart is an emerging artist recently signed with Sunnyside Records. Jake has performed in a multitude of international competitions and holds a Bachelor of Music from University of Miami’s Frost School of Music and a Master of Music from Salem College.
A fixture on the New York music scene for 30 years, guitarist John Hart has distinguished himself as a band leader with 16 CDs - including releases on such prestigious labels as Blue Note and Concord. John has also appeared on 100-plus CDs as a sideman.
Lucas Apostoleris
PERSONNEL
Lucas Apostoleris, drums
Connor Rohrer, piano
Vincent Dupont, bass
ABOUT LUCAS APOSTOLERIS
Born and raised in New England, Lucas Apostoleris is a composer and instrumentalist residing in Miami. He has performed recently with artists such as Dave Liebman, Fabian Almazan, Troy Roberts, and Martin Bejerano, and plays regularly with a variety of ensembles in South Florida. He has released two albums of his own music: “Chronicle,” in 2020, and “The Path Forward,” in 2023. His third album, “It’s Been Good,” was released in May 2024.
Russ Spiegel’s Nitty Gritty Album Release Show
Performance made possible by Ed Blanco
PERSONNEL
Tim Armacost, saxophone
Russ Spiegel, guitar
Jim Gasior, organ/piano
Kurt Hengstebeck, electric bass
Lucas Apostoleris, drums
Channeling the spirited energy of hard bop with the progressive aesthetics of rock music, Spiegel carves out his own niche in the contemporary jazz scene.
—Troy Collins, All About Jazz
A highly dynamic and energetic musician, Miami-based Russ Spiegel has made a name for himself as a guitarist, composer, arranger, producer, and educator. From hard swinging, groovy, and melodic Modern & Post-Modern Jazz to Funk, Soul, & Latin to Rock & Blues, this sophisticated guitarist is the full package. Russ can be heard at jazz festivals and concerts across the globe.
His seventh studio album, Nitty Gritty is set for release at the end of March 2025. Caribbean Blue (2023) garnered international critical acclaim, reaching #5 on the JazzWeek Charts and remained in their Top 20 for eight weeks. Along with writing scores for film and television productions, Russ composes and arranges music for all types of ensembles, especially big bands. He has also appeared in film and on television as both an actor and musician. Russ holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Jazz Composition from the University of Miami Frost School of Music. He also travels the world giving workshops and masterclasses. He presently teaches at Florida International University and Miami Dade College, Kendall.
Jason Arkins
PERSONNEL
Jason Arkins, alto Sax
Aaron Lebos, guitar
Marty Quinn, bass
Lucas Apostoleris, drums
Jason Arkins is a 24 year old Saxophonist/Composer, and a graduate of the Frost School of Music. He is a Vandoren Emerging Artist Awardee, Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Alumni, and has performed around the US at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, Dizzy's Club, and the Monterey Jazz Festival. He has also performed internationally in Japan, China, Taiwan, France, and Canada. Since graduating from Frost, Jason has led a busy freelance career around South Florida playing many styles of music and performing at many of the premiere venues. In 2022, Jason released his first EP of music called "In Focus" which you can hear on all streaming platforms.
Jason Moran Performs the Music of Duke Ellington: My Heart Sings
With special guest Alicia Hall Moran and the Frost Jazz Orchestra
Guided by Duke Ellington’s great canon, Moran takes a solo piano climb up “Mount Ellington” in this extraordinary celebration of the composer’s enduring legacy 125 years after his birth. Experience the timeless genius of Ellington’s music, brilliantly reimagined by Moran.
Jason Arkins @ Jackson
PERSONNEL
Jason Arkins, saxophone
Aaron Lebos, guitar
Marty Quinn, bass
Claudio Silva, drums
Ian Munoz
PERSONNEL
Ian Muñoz, alto Sax
Ilai Maccagi, trombone
Mikailo Kasha, bass
Claudio Silva, drums
ABOUT
Alto saxophonist Ian Muñoz, is a recent graduate from The Juilliard School with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. Ian has had the opportunity to perform alongside musicians like Sean Jones, Bruce Williams, Ira Sullivan, Billy Drummond, Bryan Carter, Hermeto Pascual, Josh Evans, Matthew Whittaker and more. A particularly cherished memory of his was, in 2017, he was a guest artist on the renowned flutist Nestor Torres' album, "Jazz Flute Traditions," which was nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Latin Jazz/Jazz Album.
He also had the honor of being a five-time National YoungArts winner, a two-time recipient of the DownBeat Student Award and was also selected for The Next Generation Jazz Orchestra (2018, 2019, and 2020), the National Youth Orchestra Jazz ensemble with Sean Jones (2019) where he was able to internationally tour in China, Taiwan, Japan, Canada and perform at Carnegie hall in 2019. He was also selected for the 2018 Jazz Band of America and the recipient of Essentially Ellington’s Ella Fitzgerald award in 2020, where Wynton Marsalis was kind enough to comment that “This young man's playing is so intelligent and full of wit and humor.” Recently, Ian got off a 2 week tour alongside Vincent Herring and Eric Alexander, where he was able to play with the two saxophonists at venues like The Cotton Club, JZBrat, and Star Eyes in Tokyo, Japan.