JAZZMIA Nights - Gary Campbell

Doors: 7:00pm

Show: 7:30pm

Jam Session: 8:30pm

General Admission is $30. Free entry for students and musicians!

Personnel

Gary Campbell, saxophone

Mike Eckroth, piano

Vince Dupont, bass

Brandon Lee Lewis, drums

About the Artist

Prior to earning a Masters of Music in Jazz Performance Degree at the University of  Miami (1992), Gary studied privately with David N. Baker and Jerry Coker (1960s). He  was active in the New York “Loft Scene” from the late sixties through the early eighties.  He appeared on records alongside Randy Brecker, John Abercrombie, Dan Wall, Jeremy  Steig, David Earle Johnson, Adam Nussbaum, David Friesen, Ira Sullivan, Andy  Laverne, Danny Gottlieb - gigging with (in addition to the above) John Scofield, Dave  Liebman, Tom Harrell, Jaco Pastorius, Andy Laverne, Nasheet Waits, Gerald Cleaver,  Franco Ambrosetti, Aydin Esen, and many others.

As a member of the Miroslav Vitous Quartet, touring Europe, played on three of his CDs on ECM Records. He taught at  University of Miami (1982 - 1993), Florida International University (1993 - 2024), and  the Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops (1987 - 2010).

Gary has published six books: 1)  Patterns for Jazz, co-authored w/ Jerry Coker; 2) Expansions - A Method for  Developing New Material for Improvisation; 3) Hank Mobley Transcribed Solos;  4) Connecting Jazz Theory; 5) Triad Pairs for Jazz; and 6) Pentatonic Scales – An In Depth Look at Deriving and Applying Pentatonic Scales for Improvisation and  Composition.

He has been awarded three Fulbright Awards in Europe - Berlin, Vienna,  and Budapest, and presented throughout Europe and Latin America, as well as three IAJE  Annual World Conventions, JEN Conventions, and in Colleges and Universities world wide. He is a Full Distinguished Music Professor of Jazz Performance at Florida  International University in Miami. Gary recently released “Moments” duets with Mike  Gerber, available on Spotify and Apple Music. 

Personnel

Julius Rogers, drums

David Galli, saxophone and piano

Ruben Espinosa, bass

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Australian-born Julius Rogers is an accomplished drummer, producer, and composer whose dynamic artistry bridges contemporary jazz, world music, hip hop, and classical influences. His highly versatile style and distinctive sound have established him as one of the most in-demand drummers in Miami and beyond.

From 2018 to 2021, Julius was a member of the West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra, an early milestone in a career defined by both technical mastery and creative exploration. In 2022, he released his debut album Witching Hour—a concept project capturing the atmospheric aesthetics of Noir and Neo-Noir cinema through a diverse range of jazz idioms. Drawing inspiration from UK jazz, ’70s fusion, neo-soul, jazz-funk, modal jazz, lounge music, and impressionism, the album reflects Julius’s ability to blend genres into an evocative, cinematic soundscape.

In April 2023, Julius was accepted into the Frost School of Music to pursue a Master’s in Jazz Performance, receiving a full scholarship, a Graduate Teaching Assistantship under the mentorship of Grammy-winning drummer Dafnis Prieto, and recognition as a Mancini Fellow at the prestigious Henry Mancini Institute. He was also invited to join the 2024 JAS Academy Afro-Caribbean Big Band session in Aspen, Colorado, led by renowned trumpeter Etienne Charles. Most recently, Julius became a member of the critically acclaimed Frost Jazz Orchestra from 2024-2025.

As a performer, Julius has been gigging internationally since 2015, with performances across the USA, Australia, France, Hungary, Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. He has worked with an impressive roster of acclaimed musicians including The Rodriguez Brothers, Dick Oatts, Linda May Han Oh, Fabian Almazan, Katie Noonan, Sean Jones, Jaleel Shaw, Marcus Strickland, John Daversa, and George Garzone.

Since moving to the USA in 2023, Julius Rogers has quickly become one of Miami’s most in-demand drummers. With a highly versatile style that seamlessly blends contemporary jazz, hip hop, world music, and classical influences, he has crafted a unique and unmistakable sound on the drums that is truly unparalleled.

Beginning March 8, The Matt Wigler Band launches a monthly Sunday residency featuring Jamie Ousley as Musical Director. Each early-evening set offers an exclusive, intimate experience built around groove-centered blues, strong melodies, and deep ensemble feel, with select special guests joining throughout the series. Designed for close listening and relaxed enjoyment, the focus is simple: great pocket, real interplay, and music that feels as good in the room as it does on stage.

Personnel

Aidan O’Connor, saxophone

Connor Rohrer, piano

Mikailo Kasha, bass

Gabriel Landa, drums

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Aidan O'Connor is an emerging voice on the tenor saxophone with a distinctive sound and a reverence for the Jazz tradition. Aidan has had the privilege of working alongside world-class musicians such as John Benitez, The Ed Palermo Big Band, The Jim Cifelli Nonet, The Dave Rivello Ensemble, and the Glenn Miller Orchestra. He has also had the privilege of performing at some of the main stages of the New York Jazz scene, such as Smalls Jazz Club, Room 623, and Umbra Jazz.

Aidan is also an accomplished recording artist and bandleader. In September of 2025, he released his debut album “Conception” featuring rising Jazz talents Evan Main on piano, Quinton Cain on drums, and bassist John Lind. Aidan will be making his international debut in March of 2026, taking his band on tour to Mexico City. A graduate from the Eastman School of Music, Aidan studied with and was mentored by Charles Pillow and Bill Dobbins. Aidan is currently pursuing his Masters of Music from the Manhattan School of Music and studies under Dayna Stephens and Mark Shim. He is slated to graduate in May of 2026.

Aidan has been recognized by various Jazz organizations. In 2019, Aidan was selected to take part in the prestigious Jazz Aspen-Snowmass Academy, directed by Christian McBride. In 2021, Aidan was awarded third place in the Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition.

JAZZMIA Nights - Stamps Jazz Quintet

Doors: 7:00pm

Show: 7:30pm

Jam Session: 8:30pm

General Admission is $30. Free entry for students and musicians!

Personnel

Ben Collins-Siegel, piano

Jeremy Baun, drums

Laesio Littlejohn, bass

Mason Jerome, guitar

Tanvi Kumar, violin

About the Stamps Quintet

The Stamps Jazz Quintet is a unique ensemble at the Frost School of Music. Through the generosity of the Stamps Scholars Program, five exceptional young artists of the highest caliber are selected every four years for this group. Together, these students form a working jazz quintet for the length of their tenure at the Frost School of Music. Mentored by Dr. Chuck Bergeron and other Studio Music and Jazz faculty, the Stamps Jazz Quintet has performed both nationally and internationally. They have represented Frost at conferences and festivals across America. Additionally, the Stamps Jazz Quintets have recorded and produced albums of original music that are commercially available.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Personnel

Jonathan Ziegler, drums

Brenten Handfield, drums

Mikailo Kasha, bass

Leo Folsom, synths

Daniel Bulatkin, piano

ABOUT THE ARTIST

TBD

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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*

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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*

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.

maxmilianmusic.net

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.

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. 

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

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.

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.