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LAST UPDATE: 01/22/20 LAST EDIT: 01/22/20
We hope we'll see you at a show!
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Ear Plugs Info Venue Info Past Page's Picks | |||||||||
The Latest Picks New or updated listings are in GOLD . An asterisk* notes we haven't seen this act in person, but our research indicates it should be worth seeing. | |||||||||
| Status | Date | Time | Who | Where | Cost |
| Ongoing thru Sun., 2/2/2020 | TBD | Passport to the World of Music (A musical tour of the world in an intimate cabaret space, with a diverse musical line up specially curated by Ken Avis and Lynn Veronneau of the Wammy Award–winning jazz samba group Veronneau. Enjoy blues, jazz, Latin, fusion, bluegrass, folk and a musical experience only the well–travelled know. This 9th installment of the “Passport to the World” concert series promises another first rate music festival that allows you to travel the world without ever leaving Falls Church!) | Creative Cauldron, 410 South Maple Avenue, Retail 116, Falls Church, VA 22046 (703–436–9948; http://www.creativecauldron.org/) | $25 Adults $23 Senior & Military | |
| Thu., 1/23/2020 | 7:30pm | Paul Galbraith/Guitar* & Antonio Meneses/Cello* (Galbraith is a Scottish classical guitarist known for his unique style of playing the guitar like a cello that is being finger picked. Meneses, cellist of the legendary Beaux Arts Trio.) | Strathmore Mansion | $30 | |
| New | Thu., 1/23/2020 | 8:30pm | Dave Chappell (Local rock guitarist and vocalist) | JV's | TBD |
| New | Thu., 1/23/2020 | 8pm | Shook/Russo 4Tet (jazz with Amy Shook /acoustic bass , Pat Shook/tenor sax, Frank Russo/drums, & Jonathan Epley/guitar; The Shook/Russo 5tet has been performing together since 2005 in the mid–Atlantic region. Their focus has always been to compose and perform their own original music within the jazz idiom, honoring the masters by carrying on the tradition. Be it through blues, swing, bebop, soul jazz, or more modern funk and groove, the group has developed an incredible and unique sound) | 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery, 49 West, Annapolis, MD 20401 (http://49westcoffeehouse.com/) | $10 |
| Thu., 1/23/2020–Sat., 1/25/2020 | Thu. & Fri: Evenings Sat.: All Day | 39th Annual North Carolina Jazz Festival (This is an annual trek for us. There are an unbelievable number of great restaurants within walking distance of the hotel, too. 7 sets each night, with 6 or 7 musicians in each set, and each set has a different leader and closing with an All–Star Jazz Jam.) Adrian Cunningham/Reeds; Ben Polcer/Trumpet; Bruce Harris/Trumpet; Champian Fulton*/PIano; Chris Gelb*/Drums; Chuck Redd/Drums–Vibes; Deon Tucker/Trombone; Emmet Cohen/Piano (Thurs. only); Herman Burney/Bass; Houston Person/Sax; Jon Hill*/Drummer (Thurs. only); Jonathan Russell/Violen; Nikki Parrott/Bass–Vocals; Nate Najar/Guitar; Rossiano Sportiello/piano; Veronica Swift/Vocals (Thurs. only) | Hotel Ballast (a Hilton), 301 North Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 (special room rates thru 12/23; https://ncjazzfestival.org/) | $225 3–Day Patron Pass $200 2–Day Patron Pass $15–$60 Single Night | |
| New | Fri., 1/24/2020 | 5pm DO/6pm–9pm Show | Sharon Clark Sings! (American Songbook Jazz with Sharón Clark/vocals, Paul Carr/sax, Chris Grasso/piano, Zack Pride/bass, and Quincy Phillips/drums) | Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I Street SW, DC (https://westminsterdc.godaddysites.com/jazz.html) | $5 Cash at Door |
| Fri., 1/24/2020–Thu., 2/23/2020 | 11am Thu. 2pm Sat. & Sun. 7:30pm Tue.–Sun. | Silent Sky* (A decade before women gained the right to vote, Henrietta Leavitt and her fellow women “computers” transformed the science of astronomy. In the Harvard Observatory, Leavitt found 2,400 new variable stars and made important discoveries about their fluctuating brightness, enabling fellow scientists to map the Milky Way and beyond. This inspiring drama explores the determination, passion and sacrifice of the women who redefined our understanding of the cosmos. ) | Ford's Theatre, 511 Tenth St. NW, DC (https://www.fords.org) | $20–$70 | |
| Sat., 1/25/2020 | 7:30pm | Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone (Peter's shows usually sell out because they are just plain fun. He has a great band backing him up and he still has his voice. His repertoire extends from his Herman Hermits songs to the Sex Pistols, Rolling Stones, etc.) | The Maryland Theater, 27 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, MD 21740 (http://www.mdtheatre.org/marquee.php) | $34–$44 | |
| Sat., 1/25/2020 | 2pm | United States Navy Concert Band* (The premier wind ensemble of the United States Navy.) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | Free but Tickets Required | |
| Sat., 1/25/2020 | 8pm–10:30pm | The Slocan Ramblers* (Bluegrass; The Slocan Ramblers are Canada’s bluegrass band to watch. Rooted in tradition, fearlessly creative and possessing a bold, dynamic sound. This is roots music without pretension, music intended to make you feel something .) | Black Rock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874 (301.528.2260 ; https://www.blackrockcenter.org/events/category/2019–2020–season) | $40–$45 | |
| New | Sat., 1/25/2020 | 8pm | Jeff Foxworthy (Southern comedian who is known for the catch phrase "You Might be a Red Neck if….") | The Theater at MGM National Harbor, National Harbor , MD | $45–$85 |
| New | Sun., 1/26/2020 | 8:30pm | Memphis Gold* (Delta Blues electric guitarist) | JV's | TBD |
| New | Mon., 1/27/2020 | 6pm | Pilsner Jazz Band* (Since 2008, Pilsner Jazz Band has been performing Czech traditional jazz and swing. This eight–member orchestra focuses on the "jazz golden era", including Dixieland and swing, but also performs boogie–woogie, blues, and some Latin jazz standards. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the Czech Republic. ) | Kennedy Center – Milinneum Stage | Free |
| Thu., 1/30/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Benito Gonzalez Trio* (NYC Bop Piano, Bass, & Drums) | Blues Alley | $25 | |
| Fri., 1/31/2020 | 8pm | Maz Jobrani* (Iranian American comedian and actor, Maz Jobrani, can currently be seen starring in the CBS sitcom Superior Donuts. Maz’s first original Netflix standup special Immigrant was filmed at the Kennedy Center and is currently available for streaming. He has had three Showtime standup comedy specials, Brown and Friendly, I Come in Peace, and most recently, I’m Not a Terrorist, But I’ve Played One on TV. In the Spring of 2016 he performed at the White House where he had the privilege of introducing Michelle Obama. He was a founding member of The Axis of Evil Comedy Tour, which aired on Comedy Central in 2007. Most recently, Maz starred as the title character in the award–winning indie comedy, Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero, a film which he co–wrote and co–produced and is now available on all major outlets online. He has co–starred in many films including Disney’s, The Descendants, Sydney Pollack’s The Interpreter, and Ice Cube’s Friday After Next. With over 50 guest star appearances, Maz can regularly be seen on television’s most popular shows. He is a regular panelist on NPR’s Wait Wait Don't Tell Me and has given 2 TED Talks. His LA Times Best Selling Book, I’m Not a Terrorist, But I’ve Played One on TV, was published by Simon & Schuster. Maz executive produced Everything Must Change, a documentary about his sister's battle with breast cancer which is currently available on iTunes.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $29–$125 | |
| New | Fri., 1/31/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Chaise Lounge (Local jazz/lounge/swing band fronted by a female that does new and re–arranged quirky songs beautifully) | The Soundry*, 10221 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044 (443–283–1200; https://www.thesoundry.com/upcoming–shows/) | $15–$20 |
| Fri., 1/31/2020 | 8pm | Juan De Marcos & the Afro–Cuban All Stars* (Big band featuring a rotating, multi–generational cast; the group draws on both classic Cuban styles, like son and danzón, and contemporary dance rhythms. Led by Buena Vista Social Club founder Juan de Marcos.) | Strathmore Music Center | $24–$64 | |
| Date Change | Sat., 2/1/2020 | 8pm–10:30pm | Phil Wiggins* (Traditional Blues Harmonica Player, songwriter & music director) | Black Rock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874 (301.528.2260 ; https://www.blackrockcenter.org/events/category/2019–2020–season) | $25–$45 |
| New | Mon., 2/3/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show | Dave Chappell (Local rock guitarist and vocalist) and Steve Abshire (local acoustic jazz guitarist) | Blues Alley | $22 |
| Tue., 2/4/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Strunz and Farah* (Grammy nominees; Jorge Strunz and Ardeshir Farah are the innovators of an entirely new expression for the acoustic guitar blending the jazz musical styles of Costa Rica and Iran respectively into their highly virtuosic, rhythmic, and improvisation–rich original instrumental compositions) | Blues Alley | $35 | |
| Wed., 2/5/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Svetlana & The Delancey Five*: "Night at the Movies" Release Party (NYC critically acclaimed "outstanding" vocalist from NYC performs from "jazz age to the 21st century" ; swing band) | Blues Alley | $25 | |
| New | Thu., 2/6/2020 | 7:30pm | Jazz Heritage Series presented by The United States Air Force Band Airmen of Note with saxaphonist Chris Potter* | Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E Campus Dr, Alexandria, VA 22311 (http://usafband.eventbrite.com) | Free but Tickets Required |
| New | Fri., 2/7/2020 | 9pm | NSO DECLASSIFIED®: Ben Folds Presents (Ben Folds is back with the NSO, performing original music never before performed with an orchestra. This laid–back, late–night concert includes exciting guest artists, pre/post–show parties, drink specials, and more. It's classical music DECLASSIFIED®) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $25–$75 |
| Fri., 2/7/2020 | 8pm | The Messenger Legacy – Art Blakey Centennial Celebration* (An all–star group of musicians play tribute to the Jazz Messengers, the big band collective led by the late Art Blakey.) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | $15–$30 | |
| New | Fri., 2/7/2020 | 5pm DO/6pm–9pm Show | John Lamkin*, II “Favorites” Jazz Quintet (with John Lamkin, II/trumpet, Michael Hairston/sax, Bob Butta/piano, Mike Graham/bass, & Jesse Moody/drums) | Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I Street SW, DC (https://westminsterdc.godaddysites.com/jazz.html) | $5 Cash at Door |
| Fri., 2/7/2020–Sat., 2/8/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show | The Heather McDonald* Experience: Stand Up Comedy & Juicy Scoop (an American actress, comedian and author. Born and educated in Southern California, she is best known for her appearances on the E! series Chelsea Lately. She was one of the eight writers on the show and often participated in sketches and segments.) | City Winery DC – Main Room | $85 GOLDEN CIRCLE / VIP Meet and Greet Package $45 VIP $40 Front Premier $38 Premier $35 Bar Stool | |
| Fri., 2/7/2020–Sun., 3/8/2020 | 2pm Sat. & Sun. 7:30pm Sun. & Tues. 8pm Thurs.–Sat. | The Oregon Shakespeare Festival Production of Mother Road* (As the hardworking and terminally ill William Joad sets out on an epic journey to pass down his family farm, he is humiliated to find that the only surviving descendant of his family is a Mexican–American named Martin Jodes, an ex–migrant worker. Inspired by John Steinbeck's classic, "The Grapes of Wrath", the two men take a ride throught the Mother ROad, traveling from California back to Oklahoma, all while forging an unlikely bond and coming to terms with their brutal past.) | Arena Stage – Fichandler Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, Washington, DC 20024 (202–488–3300; arenastage.org) | $56–$95 | |
| Sat., 2/8/2020 | 8pm | Ahmad Jamal* (an American jazz pianist, composer, bandleader, and educator. For five decades, he has been one of the most successful small–group leaders in jazz. Ahmad Jamal may be the last original jazzman. Though he now has a key on the piano for each year of life, Jamal’s performances are as fresh as ever with his delicate touch, taste for sweet comping chords, and knack for ingenious improvisations. The two–time Grammy® nominee has developed a wide following among mainstream audiences, longtime music lovers, and jazz legends—even now, there’s simply no one who plays quite like Jamal.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $29–$99 | |
| Sat., 2/8/2020 | 8pm | Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra: Ellington, Basie, & Byrd (Local big band swing) | Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall, 10960 George Mason Center, Manassas, VA (http://hylton.calendar.gmu.edu) | $46, $39, $28 | |
| New | Sat., 2/8/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes* (Local Blues; Ed Crowley on Harmonica and vocals, Larry Younkins on Guitar, Scott Chadwick on drums, James Cooke on bass and David Gorozdos on keyboards.) | The Hamilton, DC – Loft | No Cover |
| New | Sat., 2/8/2020 | 7pm DO/9pm Show | Dale Watson & His Lone Stars (Real Country–Western singer/songwriter with a nice baritone voice who plugs Lone Star beers continuously. Page loves him; Agnes doesn't.) | City Winery DC – Wine Garden | $20 |
| New | Wed., 2/12/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Cyrille Aimee* (Female French/Dominican Jazz vocalist) | Blues Alley | $35 |
| Thu., 2/13/2020 | 8pm | Jake Shimabukuro (rock ukelele – really! And, really good, too!) & Sierra Hull* (Young American bluegrass singer–songwriter, mandolinist, and guitarist. ) | Strathmore Music Center | $28–$58 | |
| Thu., 2/13/2020–Sun., 2/16/2020 | Various | 2020 Newport Beach Jazz Party (Adam Schroeder; Barbara Morrison ; Charles Turner; Chuck Redd; Diego Figueiredo; Emmet Cohen Trio; Graham Dechter; Houston Person; Jeff Hamilton Trio; James Morrison; Joe LaBarbera; Jon Hamar; Katie Thiroux; Ken Peplowski; Las Vegas Academy Of The Arts Big Band; Lewis Nash; Matt Witek; Nicki Parrot Trio; Ron Stout; Rusty Higgins; Scott Hamilton Quartet; Scott Whitfield; Shelly Berg; Tamir Hendelman; Tom Rainier; Tom Scott; Tony Monaco; Tom Scott; Veronica Swift; Wycliffe Gordon; & French Horn Player TBD) | Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa, 900 Newport Center Dr. Newport Beach, CA (Jazz Party: 949 391 6800; www.newportbeachjazzparty.com) | $670–725 VIP Pkgs (first 8 rows; Sat. & Sun. Jazz Brunches; Free Self–Parking or SNA airport pickup; Commemorative T–Shirt & Hat; Private Concert) $535–$590 Patron Pkg with both Jazz Brunches $470–$525 Patron Pkg with Sat. OR Sun. Brunch $425–$480 Patron Pkg w/o Brunch (Individual day tickets also available) | |
| Fri., 2/14/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | An Evening with: Tony Sands* as Frank Sinatra (Tony’s Atlantic City Reviews of the That’s Life Concert have praised Sands not only for his uncanny vocal re–creation of Sinatra, but for his mannerisms that help create the illusion that Ol’ Blues Eyes is back. Sands will be performing such hits as That's Life, Come Fly With Me, Luck Be A Lady, My Way, New York New York, and many more. Sands will be accompanied by his Six Piece Band. In the video I viewed, he certainly does sound a lot like Sinatra.) | The Hamilton, DC | $39.75 Gold Seated GA $25 Seated GA $20 Each Seated GA Couples Package $15 Bar Area GA | |
| Fri., 2/14/2020–Sun., 2/16/2020 | All Day | 2020 Mid–Atlantic Jazz Festival (6 stages under one roof; Artists TBA but generally include national & local performers with an emphasis on Smooth Jazz) | Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Hotel Executive Meeting Center, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852–1699 (http://midatlanticjazzfestival.org/) | $175–$270 Voyager Passport (all access) $20–$50 Individual Show Ticket | |
| New | Sat., 2/15/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | The New Orleans Suspects* (The group brought together some of the best, most highly respected players in New Orleans including Jake Eckert, Jeff Watkins, CR Gruver “Mean” Willie Green on drums, and Reggie Scanlan. Their music is a fun funky, bluesy, New Orleans.) | The Hamilton, DC | $20–$30 |
| New | Sat., 2/15/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Hard Swimmin' Fish* (Frederick Down & Dirty Blues Band (Guitar, Harmonica, Bass, and sometimes drums)) | The Hamilton, DC – Loft | No Cover |
| New | Sat., 2/15/2020 | 11:30pm–1:30am | Tedeschi Trucks Band Afterparty featuring New Orleans Suspects* (The group brought together some of the best, most highly respected players in New Orleans including Jake Eckert, Jeff Watkins, CR Gruver “Mean” Willie Green on drums, and Reggie Scanlan. Their music is a fun funky, bluesy, New Orleans.) | The Hamilton, DC | $10 |
| New | Tue., 2/18/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Bonerama (The NOLA trombone sensation returns with all the funkiest grooves; We were disappointed in their show last time) with The Beat Hotel (great Bethesda 9–piece band with a 3–piece horn section & 2 female vocalists playing the funky R&B Mardi Gras dance music that made New Orleans famous) | The Hamilton, DC | $25 Seated GA $20 Standing GA |
| New | Tue., 2/18/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Chieli Minucci & Special EFX* (Fusion Jazz; American guitarist known as the leader of the Grammy–nominated contemporary jazz group Chielli Minucci & Special EFX; with Joel Rosenblatt, Jerry Brooks, Jay Rowe) | Blues Alley | $35 |
| New | Thu., 2/20/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | An Evening with: Spyro Gyra (American jazz fusion band that was formed in Buffalo, New York in 1974. The band's music combines jazz, R&B, funk, and pop music.) | The Hamilton, DC | $29.75–$54.75 |
| Thu., 2/20/2020 | 8pm | Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell, Director & Violin (Renowned for fresh interpretations of classical music with a program of Paganini, Brahms, & more) | Strathmore Music Center | $55–$175 | |
| Thu., 2/20/2020 | 7:30pm | Frederick Speaker Series Presents: Dr. Mae Jemison* (Explore the frontiers of science and human potential with the first woman of color in space.) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | $40–$55 | |
| Fri., 2/21/2020 | 8–11pm | Third Fridays: Lena Seikaly with the Chris Grasso Trio (American Songbook Jazz with one of our favorite local vocalists and Zack Pride/bass and Lenny Robinson/drums.) | Mr. Henry's Restaurant Upstairs, 601 Pennsylvania Ave SE. DC (http://www.mrhenrysdc.com/music/; www.brownpapertickets.com) | TBD (Tickets & Reservations needed) | |
| New | Fri., 2/21/2020 | 7:30pm DO/9pm Show | Ron Holloway Band with Gordon Sterling and The People* (7–piece saxy funk machine Ron Holloway Band! Doors open at 7:30 pm and the music plays all night long, open house style) | The Hamilton–DC | $10 |
| New | Fri., 2/21/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Rachel Ann Morgan* (multi–talented blond singer/songwriter in the Baltimore & DC area with a big bluesy voice. Vocalist of DC–base funk group The Ron Holloway Band) | The Hamilton–DC Loft | No Cover |
| Fri., 2/21/2020–Sun., 2/23/2020 | Varies | 2020 San Diego Jazz Party (Stephanie Trick and Paolo Alderighi; Harry Allen; John Allred; Evan Arntzen; Dan Barrett; Danny Coots; Jon–Erik Kellso; Rebecca Kilgore; Ed Metz; Nicki Parrott; Ken Peplowski; Houston Person, Jr.; Ed Polcer; Vinny Rainolo; Chuck Redd; Richard Simon; Rossano Sportiello; Dave Stone; Jason Wanner; Frank Vignolo) | Hilton San Diego/Del Mar (Dan Reid: (619) 787–8792; sdjp.org) | $250 Patron Pass includes all music, Fri. Free–Bar Cocktail Party, & Sat. Jazz Brunch) (Individual Day Tickets also available) | |
| Sat., 2/22/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Mardi Gras Bugaloo 2020: The Dirty Dozen Brass Band & Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas (New Orleans Brass Bands) | The Hamilton, DC | $30 Seated GA $25 Standing GA | |
| New | Sat., 2/22/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Junkyard Saints ( 7–piece (full horn section) band that plays New Orleans style party music) | The Soundry*, 10221 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044 (443–283–1200; https://www.thesoundry.com/upcoming–shows/) | $8–$10 |
| New | Wed., 2/26/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show | KW Big Band* with Michael Kramer* & Tim Whalen (Local Jazz Big Band featuring our favorite DC bop jazz pianist, Tim Whalen) | Blues Alley | $22 |
| Thu., 2/27/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives: Marty Stuart is the Pilgrim (American country music singer–songwriter, known for both his traditional style, and eclectic merging of rockabilly, honky tonk, and traditional country music.) | Birchmere | $59.50 | |
| New | Thu., 2/27/2020 | 8pm | Paul Piper Sextet (Local American Songbook Jazz Guitarist) | Twins Jazz | $10 |
| Fri., 2/28/2020–Sun., 3/1/2020 | Varies | 7th Annual Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival: Gretchen Menn*, Bailey Run*, Alow*, Albert Cummings*, Andy Mowatt’s Frequency Movement*, BB King Blues Band featuring “The Voice” Michael Lee, Ben Brandt*, Benyaro*, Big Boy Brass Band*, Billy Walton Band*, Blues on the Loose*, Brandon “Taz” Neiderauer*, Cary Morin*, Chase Walker Band*, Clarence Spady*, Corty Byron*, David Olney*, deVitry and Rast*, Dr. Harmonica & Rockett 88*, Frank Bey*, Gabe Stillman Band*, Gangstagrass*, Garland Jeffreys*, Ghost Town Blues Band*, Greg Piccolo*, Happy Sally*, Hoss and Friends*, Hubby Jenkins*, Jamie Mclean Band*, Jeff Thomas’ All Volunteer Army*, Jimmy Adler Band*, Jon Cleary and the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Kristi Jean & Her Ne’er Do Wells*, Left Lane Cruiser*, Leo DiSanto*, Leroy Hawkes & the Hypnotics*, Little Leroys*, Little Red Rooster Blues Band*, Live At The Fillmore*. Mama Tried*. Mighty Joe Castro and the Gravamen*, Mighty Joshua*, Miss Melanie and the Valley Rats*, Mitch Woods & his Rocket 88’s*, Mystic Alpacas*, Nina de Vitry*, Oliver Bates Craven*, Ray Fuller & The Bluesrockers*, Riley Moore*, Ron Holloway Band, Seth Walker, Steel Radiance*, Steve Guyger & The Excellos*, Suddenly, Tammy!*, Sweet Leda* feat. Ron Holloway , The Jellyman’s Daughter*, The Mississippi Juke Ambassadors*, The Nighthawks, The Trey Alexander Band*, The War and Treaty*, Thornetta Davis*, Tractor Jerry and the Mudbucket*, Tuck Ryan*, Vinegar Creek Constituency*, & Yam Yam* | Various indoor venues in Lancaster, PA (https://lancasterrootsandblues.com) | TBD (not on sale yet) | |
| New | Sat., 2/29/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Marcia Ball & Sonny Landreth (Marcia is a 6' Cajun Blues Pianist & Vocalist; Sonny is a Cajun slide guitar player. Both are fantastic!) | The Hamilton, DC | $45 GA Seated $30 GA Standing |
| Sat., 2/29/2020 | 8pm | Matthew Whitaker* (Blind Jazz Pianist, Organist, Drummer, Composer, Arranger; A piano and Hammond B–3 organ wunderkind currently taking the jazz world by storm, the 17–year–old is the youngest musician to be endorsed by Hammond in the company’s history.) | Sixth & I | $35 | |
| Sat., 2/29/2020 | 8pm–10pm | Steve Herberman & Lena Seikaly Duo (Lena Seikaly is one of our favorite local jazz vocalists. She performs American Songbook jazz tunes and will be accompanied by the very talented Steve Herberman on acoustic guitar.) | Kentlands Arts Barn Theatre, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878 ($25 / $18 Youth (18 & under)) | $25 / $18 Youth (18 & under) | |
| Sat., 2/29/2020 | 8pm–10:30pm | Etta May* (Winner of the prestigious American Comedy Awards “Comedy of the Year,” this Kentucky Woman is a comedy icon! Hailed as the “Polyester Princess,” the reigning Queen of Southern Sass delivers a high–powered, take–no–prisoners performance full of truth, irony, humor, and wisdom. This trailer park goddess has appeared on, Oprah, Showtime, CMT, CBS Sunday Morning, ABC, Columbia Pictures, and NBC. She headlines the hugely successful Southern Fried Chicks Comedy Tour and touts a huge fan base on SiriusXM comedy channels. Etta May is a seasoned performer with national appeal!) | Black Rock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874 (301.528.2260 ; https://www.blackrockcenter.org/events/category/2019–2020–season) | $25–$45 | |
| Sat., 2/29/2020 | 8pm | We Banjo 3*(Featuring banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, percussion and beautiful harmonies, We Banjo 3’s music is affectionately described as “Celtgrass”, a blend of Celtic and bluegrass with dashes of folk–pop, and country; Galway–based quartet.) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | $22–$35 | |
| New | Mon., 3/2/2020 | 5pm DO/6pm–9pm Show | Mark Wenner’s Blues Warriors (Mark Wenner/harp & vocals, Clarence Turner/guitar & vocals, Zach Sweeney/guitar, Steve Wolf/bass, Mark Stutso/drums & vocals) | Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I Street SW, DC (https://westminsterdc.godaddysites.com/jazz.html) | $5 Cash at Door |
| Tue., 3/3/2020–Sun., 3/8/2020 | 7:30pm Tue–Thu & Sun 8pm Fri–Sat 2pm Sat–Sun | Bandstand* (From three–time Tony winner and Hamilton choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler, comes an inspiring new American musical that explodes with infectious music and high–octane, heart–stopping dancing. It’s 1945, and six soldiers return from war to a changed nation. When NBC announces a national competition to find the nation’s next great musical superstars, they form a band unlike any the nation has ever seen. Along the way, they discover the power of music to face the impossible, find their voice, and finally feel like they have a place to call home. Run time: Approximately 2 hours, 30 minutes, with one intermission. Warning: This is a touring company) | National Theater | $54–$114 | |
| New | Thu., 3/5/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Squirrel Nut Zippers: "The Inevitable 25th Anniversary Tour" (American swing band formed in 1993 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina) | Birchmere | $45 |
| Thu., 3/5/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | An Evening with Roomful of Blues (Still one of modern blues' best touring acts whose lineup has changed over the years.) | The Hamilton, DC | $27.75 Seated GA $17.75 Pit & Standing GA | |
| New | Thu., 3/5/2020 | 7:30pm | Jazz Heritage Series presented by The United States Air Force Band Airmen of Note with guitarist Peter Bernstein* | Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E Campus Dr, Alexandria, VA 22311 (http://usafband.eventbrite.com) | Free but Tickets Required |
| Fri., 3/6/2020 | 8pm | Bruce Hornsby & yMusic (American singer and pianist. Hornsby draws frequently from classical, jazz, bluegrass, folk, Motown, gospel, rock, blues, and jam band musical traditions) | Strathmore Music Center | $38–$88 | |
| Fri., 3/6/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Roomful of Blues (Blues & Swing revival band from Rhode Island that have been performing for 45+ years.) | The Soundry*, 10221 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044 (443–283–1200; https://www.thesoundry.com/upcoming–shows/) | $20–$25 | |
| New | Fri., 3/6/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Speakers of the House* (Baltimore funk/blues (jazz–tinged) band that is a mashup of All Mighty Senators and Junkyard Blues Bands. Play old school funk, boogaloo, & rock) | The Hamilton, DC – Loft | No Cover |
| New | Sat. 3/7/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Karl Stoll & The Danger Zone* (DC danceable rockin' blues band plus some originals (Muddy Waters, Jimmy Reed, Thunderbirds, Delbert)) | The Hamilton, DC – Loft | No Cover |
| New | Sun., 3/8/2020 | 7pm | Bert Kreisher: The Berty Boy World Tour (Very funny comedian; We have heard his story titled "The Machine" many times and we still find it hysterically funny) | DAR Constitution Hall (https://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/172054/) | $37.75–$57.75 |
| Sun., 3/8/2020–Sat., 3/14/2020 | All Day | 2020 Sarasota Jazz Festival (Festival of different styles of music including Blues, Classic, Latin & Contemporary. This year's lineup includes Manhattan Transfer; Ken Peplowski; Clairdee*; Dick Hyman*; Russell Malone*; Charles McPherson*; Houston Person; Terrell Stafford*; La Lucha*; Katt Hefner*; Randy Sandke*; Art Siegal*; Jeremy Carter*; Bobby Blackmon*; Betty Fox*; Gumbi Ortiz*; Frankie Piniero*) | Multiple Venues in Sarasota, FL within walking distance of each other (www.sarasotajazzfestival.org) | $400 VIP Combo Ticket $250 Value Combo Ticket (Individual event tickets also available) | |
| New | Mon., 3/9/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Tessa Souter* (English/Trinidadian Jazz Singer–songwriter from NYC; influences are North African, Middle Eastern, Celtic.) | Blues Alley | $24 |
| New | Wed., 3/11/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Marshall Keys (sax) & Soulful Path "A tribute to Billy Strayhorn" w/Janelle Gill* (piano), Herman Burney (Bass), Kelton Norris* (drums) and Kenny Rittenhouse (trumpet) (local jazz ensemble) | Blues Alley | $25 |
| Thu., 3/12/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | The Hot Sardines (Straight–up foot–stomping hot jazz with a great female vocalist; wartime Paris via New Orleans) | Birchmere | $35 | |
| Thu., 3/12/2020 | 8pm | Riders in the Sky (Family–friendly American Western music and comedy group which began performing in 1977) | Wolf Trap – Barns | $32–$37 | |
| New | Thu., 3/12/2020 | 6:30pm DO/7:30pm Show | Roberto Fonseca* (Black Cuban Jazz Pianist and Producer –Jazz, hip hop, Latin jazz, drum and bass, urban music, Afro–Cuban music) | The Hamilton, DC | $24.75–$49.75 |
| Thu., 3/12/2020–Sun., 3/15/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Joey DeFrancesco (Jazz Organ & Trumpet; a favorite of Page's) | Blues Alley | $25 Thu. & Sun. $30 Fri. & Sat. | |
| Fri., 3/13/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Dweezil Zappa Hot Rats Live! Plus Other Hot Stuff 1969 Tour (Dweezil Zappa and his “rocking teenage combo” will be performing his father’s entire Hot Rats album in sequence live on stage as part of his upcoming 2019 tour. The album played a pivotal role in establishing Frank Zappa as a composer and guitarist and was also dedicated to Dweezil upon its release in 1969. The 50 year old classic album will be surrounded by an assortment of other psychedelic, avant–garde odd metered toe tappers well known to Zappa a?cionados....Page is still upset that he never received the video file of the Dweezil Zappa show that was supposed to come with our earlier ticket. But he does admit that Dweezil's performance was an exact match of his father's.) | The Hamilton, DC | $89.75 VIP Soundcheck Experience (early entry to soundcheck, Gold Seated GA ticket, & tour poster) $69.75 Seated GA $39.75 Bar Area GA | |
| Fri., 3/13/2020 | 8pm | Washington Performing Arts Presents Kronos Quartet* and Choral Arts Chamber Singers*: Terry Riley's Sun Rings* (The Grammy–winning Kronos Quartet performs Terry Riley's multimedia masterwork "Sun Rings", co–commissioned by NASA and featuring live performance by quartet and chorus, augmented by awe–inspiring sounds and imagery from the NASA archives.) | GWU – Lisner Auditorium (http://www.washingtonperformingarts.org) | $30–$50 | |
| New | Fri., 3/13/2020–Sat., 3/14/2020 | 9pm & 11pm | The John Lamkin 'Favorites' Jazz Quintet (Formerly the Director of Bands and the Coordinator of Music Education at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Trumpeter covers the golden age of straight–ahead, acoustic jazz) | Twins Jazz | $15 |
| Fri., 3/13/2020–Wed., 5/20/2020 | 2pm Wed. & Sat. 7:30pm Mon.–Sat. | Guys and Dolls* (In this beloved 1950s musical comedy, dice–slinging gamblers, pious missionaries and glamorous show girls come together for a light–hearted romp through New York. It’s a high stakes game of love as brash but charming Nathan Detroit bets Sky Masterson $1,000 to woo missionary Sarah Brown. Meanwhile, cabaret singer Adelaide tries to convince Nathan, her fiancé of 14 years, to finally tie the knot.) | Ford's Theatre, 511 Tenth St. NW, DC (https://www.fords.org) | $34–$86 | |
| New | Sat., 3/14/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Bad Influence Band (Local Guitar Blues Quartet fronted by a guitar–playing alto) | The Hamilton, DC – Loft | No Cover |
| New | Sun., 3/15/2020 | 8pm | Tony Bennett (19–Grammy winning American Standards jazz vocalist)with Special Guest Antonia Bennett* | Strathmore Music Center | $76–$156 |
| New | Mon., 3/16/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Dave Kline Band* Recording for "Live" Album (local jazz violin quartet) | Blues Alley | $22 |
| New | Tue., 3/17/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Veronneua Recording for "Live" Album (World Jazz; Vocals backed up by jazz guitarists) | Blues Alley | $25 |
| Wed., 3/18/2020–Sun., 4/6/2020 | All Day | Jazzdagen Hawaii 2020 35th Anniversary Cruise (18–day San Diego round trip on the ms. Eurodam with stops in San Diego, Honolulu, Oahu; Hilo, Big Island; Lahaina, Maui; Nawiliwili, Kauai; Kona, Big Island; Cruising the Kilauea Volcano; Ensenada, Mexico; San Diego. Jazz Musicians: CORNET CHOP SUEY, TOM HOOK AND BOB LEARY, PIETER MEIJERS SEXTET WITH MARILYN KELLER, ANTTI SARPILA, HOWARD ALDEN AND RANDY MORRIS, WE 3*. JAM SESSIONS WITH CHERYL THURSTON) | Jazzdagen Tours (800–433–0078; jazzdagen.com) | $2,449–$9449 – p.p. based on sharing | |
| Thu., 3/19/2020 | 7:30pm | Frederick Speaker Series Presents: P J O'Rourke* (America’s premier political satirist and best–selling author.) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | $40–$55 | |
| Thu., 3/19/2020 | 8pm | Rodney Crowell (an American musician, known primarily for his work as a singer and songwriter in country music. Crowell has had five number one singles on Hot Country Songs, all from his 1988 album Diamonds & Dirt. He has also written songs and produced for other artists.We think of him as more of a Texas Troubadour of Blues.) | Wolf Trap – Barns | $42 | |
| Thu., 3/19/2020–Sun., 3/22/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Kevin Eubanks (Bluesy Light–Jazz Electric Guitarist/Composer; director of Night Show Band) | Blues Alley | $40 Thu. & Sun. $45 Fri. & Sat. | |
| New | Fri., 3/20/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Carsie Blanton* (Bethesda–Philly Singer Songwriter whose songs remind me of the Squirrel Nut Zippers plus does jazz standards) with special guest Chris Kasper* (poetic storytelling and lush arrangements; but not a favorite of ours) | The Hamilton, DC | $15–$35 |
| Sat., 3/21/2020 | 8pm | Veronica Swift* (Prolific in everything from swing to bebop to the Great American Songbook, the 24–year–old jazz artist counts Wynton Marsalis and Chris Botti as her most trusted mentors and frequent collaborators.) | Sixth & I | $35 | |
| Sat., 3/21/2020 | 8pm | National Philharmonic: Mozart's Requiem | Strathmore Music Center | $29–$79 | |
| Wed., 3/25/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Frank Vignola's Hot Jazz Trio (acoustic American Standards jazz guitar with humor; 3 guitarists) | Blues Alley | $25 | |
| New | Thu., 3/26/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Lena Seikaly & Steve Herberman (American Songbook jazz with Lena's beautiful vocals accompanited by Steve Herberman/guitar) | Blues Alley | $25 |
| New | Fri., 3/27/2020 | Antonio Hart* ( jazz alto saxophonist. He attended the Baltimore School for the Arts, studied with Andy McGhee at Berklee College of Music, and has a master's degree from Queens College, City University of New York. His initial training was classical, but he switched to jazz in college.) | Black Rock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874 (301.528.2260 ; https://www.blackrockcenter.org/events/category/2019–2020–season) | $25–$45 | |
| Fri., 3/27/2020–Sun., 3/29/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | San Francisco Jazz Collective*: "Miles' In a Silent Way & Sly's Stand – 50th Anniversary" (8–piece All–star jazz repertory ensemble (includes horns)) | Blues Alley | $60 | |
| Fri., 3/27/2020–Sun., 4/5/2020 | 7:30pm Tue–Thu & Sun 8pm Fri–Sat 2pm Sat–Sun | The Last Ship starring Sting (musical featuring original music and lyrics by multiple Grammy Award®–winner Sting. Sting will star as shipyard foreman Jackie White and will perform the role at every performance. This musical was inspired by Sting’s 1991 album “The Soul Cages” and his own childhood experiences. It tells the story of a community amid the demise of the shipbuilding industry in Tyne and Wear, with the closure of the Swan Hunter shipyard. When a sailor named Gideon Fletcher returns home after seventeen years at sea, tensions between past and future flare in both his family and his town. The local shipyard, around which the community has always revolved, is closing and no one knows what will come next, only that a half–built ship towers over the terraces. With the engine fired and pistons in motion, picket lines are drawn as foreman Jackie White (Sting) and his wife Peggy fight to hold their community together in the face of the gathering storm. This personal, political, and passionate musical from multiple Grammy Award®–winner Sting is an epic account of a family, a community and a great act of defiance. THE LAST SHIP features an original score with music and lyrics by Sting as well as a few of his best–loved songs: “Island of Souls,” “All This Time,” and “When We Dance.” It is the proud story of when the last ship sails. We saw it on Broadway and it was good but not great and, thus, didn't last long there.) | National Theater | $54–$114 | |
| New | Sat., 3/28/2020 | 6:30pm DO/5pm Show | Shenandoah Run* (Described as "Folk Music with A Kick" but sounds more like a 8–piece bluegrass–folk band with good 6–part harmonies) | Jammin Java | $20 Adv/$25 Door |
| New | Sat., 3/28/2020 | 10:30pm–1:30am | Hard Swimmin' Fish* (Frederick Down & Dirty Blues Band (Guitar, Harmonica, Bass, and sometimes drums)) | The Hamilton, DC – Loft | No Cover |
| New | Mon., 3/30/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Michael Doucet & Sarah Quintana* – Lâcher Prise (authentic Cajun with Micael Doucet/Fiddle & Sarah Quintana/acoustic guitar & both on vocals) | Jammin Java | $18–$25 |
| Tue., 3/31/2020 | 8pm | Jazz Rising Stars III: Veronica Swift (Jazz vocalist Daughter of Hod O'Brien and Stephanie Nakasian; Adept at everything from swing to bebop to the Great American Songbook, and a whiz at rigorous vocal techniques like vocalese and scat.) | Sixth & I | $35 | |
| New | Tue., 3/31/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Coco Montoya (Blues Guitarist & vocalist who was mentored by the “Master of the Telecaster,” Albert Collins) | Amp by Strathmore | $24–$38 |
| New | Wed., 4/1/2020 | 7:30pm | Straight No Chaser (great male a capella group; Warning: We've given up on Filene Center due to the rude, non–stop talking audience) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | $40–$55 |
| Thu., 4/2/2020–Sun, 4/5/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Lee Ritenour (Fusion Guitar formerly of Four Play) | Blues Alley | $50 Thu. & Sun. $55 Fri. & Sat. | |
| New | Fri., 4/3/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Della Mae* (4–5 piece all girl roots band (Mandolin, 2 guitars, Fiddle, Upright Bass with 3 vocalists))with Dori Freeman* (an American singer–songwriter based in Galax, Virginia) | The Hamilton, DC | $14.75–$34.75 |
| Fri., 4/3/2020–Sat., 4/4/2020 | 8pm | Gregory Porter* (Grammy–winner baritone with warm vocals & earthy brand of jazz, soul, & gospel. Gifted singer of standards & contemporary soul. Also a songwriter & actor.) | Strathmore Music Center | $58–$108 | |
| Sat., 4/4/2020 | 6:30pm DO | Colin Hay: Solo (Scottish Australian musician and actor who made his mark during the 1980s as lead vocalist of the Australian band Men at Work, and later as a solo artist) | The Lincoln Theater | $45–$59.50 | |
| Sat., 4/4/2020 | 8pm | Colin Mochrie And Brad Sherwood: Scared Scriptless (Comedy Improvisation Game) | Warner Theater | $39–$59 | |
| Sat., 4/4/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Four Bitchin' Babes* (a group of female singer–songwriters with rotating membership, performing mainly humorous, satirical or light–hearted songs in the folk genre; Currently composed of Comedian Deirdre Flint (from Philadelphia), Debi Smith of DC, Sally Fingerett, from Columbus OH, and revolving 4th chair babes, Nancy Moran, inaugural member, Megon McDonough, and Christine Lavin.) | Birchmere | $35 | |
| Sun., 4/5/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | An Evening with Kathy Mattea (Country & Bluegrass Singer–Songwriter with a great voice and great songs) | Birchmere | $35 | |
| New | Wed., 4/8/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Asleep at the Wheel (Texas Swing at its best!) | Birchmere | $35 |
| Thu., 4/9/2020 | 8pm | Storm Large* (In Pink Martini; Good alto voice; Singer–songwriter–actor–author; funny, feminism based on French Theatre, Jazz Stds, heavy metal, etc.) | Wolf Trap – Barns | $52–$62 | |
| Thu., 4/9/2020 | 6:30pm Intro 7pm Film | Film – Miles Davis: The Birth of the Cool (2019 film; 115 mins.; Director Stanley Nelson will introduce his new documentary about legendary musician Miles Davis. Nelson’s film draws on interviews with luminaries like Jimmy Cobb, Lee Konitz, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter, Carlos Santana, The Roots, and Flea.) | Mary Pickford Theater, 3rd floor of the Library of Congress James Madison Building, 101 Independence Ave. S.E, DC (http://www.loc.gov/concerts/films–jazz–appreciation–month.html | Free (but tickets are required) | |
| New | Thu., 4/9/2020 | 7:30pm | Jazz Heritage Series presented by The United States Air Force Band Airmen of Note with vocalist Diane Schuur (Diane is a world–class vocalist) | Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E Campus Dr, Alexandria, VA 22311 (http://usafband.eventbrite.com) | Free but Tickets Required |
| Fri., 4/10/2020 | 8pm | Cyrus Chestnut: The Saga of the Cross (Baltimore native, Howard University professor, and pianist Cyrus Chestnut is known for swinging us right to church, and his talent for mixing jazz, spirituals, hymns, and down–home blues is apparent in his most recent composition. On Good Friday, the Concert Hall transforms for The Saga of the Cross, Cyrus’s large–scale service complete with gospel choirs, African drum troupes, jazz ensembles, a full pipe organ, and more. It’s a celebration of community, of African American culture, and of a D.C. jazz master.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $29–$69 | |
| Fri., 4/10/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Marc Broussard (Louisiana vocalist/songwriter of "Bayou Soul", a mix of funk, blues, R&B, rock, and pop, matched with distinct Southern roots.) | Birchmere | $45 | |
| Fri., 4/10/2020–Sat., 4/11/2020 | 8pm Fri. 7pm & 9:30pm Sat. | 33rd Annual Evening of Comedy (We attend this show every year and never fail to leave with a smile on our faces. A host introduces 3 stand up comedians all of whom are headliners.) | Wolf Trap – Barns | $27–$30 | |
| Sat., 4/11/2020 | 7:30pm DO/7:45pm Pre–Performance Discussion/ 8pm Concert | Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra Featuring Maria Schneider, conductor & Mason Artist–in–Residence (The evening’s repertory includes instrumental excerpts from Winter Morning Walks, a set of song cycles composed by Schneider. Witness jazz perfection with Schneider, named 2019 National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master, and the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, comprised of the most remarkable jazz performers in the metro region, in this highly anticipated event. “To call Schneider the most important woman in jazz is missing the point...She’s a major composer–period.” (TIME Magazine).) | George Mason University – Concert Hall (Note: Pre–Performance Discussion on Monson Grand Tier III with limited seating) | $46, $39, $28 | |
| Sat., 4/11/2020 | 6:30pm Lecture 8pm Concert | Concert – Fly Higher: Charlie Parker @ 100 (Fly Higher brings a septet of stars for a centennial tribute to jazz sax legend and bebop pioneer Charlie ("Bird') Parker. Rudresh Mahanthappa/sax partners with three–time Grammy–winning drummer, composer and bandleader Terri Lyne Carrington to lead a stunning lineup for the project: Charenée Wade (vocals), Adam O'Farrill (trumpet), Kris Davis (piano), Larry Grenadier (bass) and Kassa Overall, (DJ). Honoring Parker’s musical legacy but looking beyond it, their concert tracks the impact of an artist whose innovations as a player and composer changed the path of jazz—and powerfully influenced the evolution of new music that would become pop, rock and hip hop. PRE–CONCERT LECTURE with Library of Congress Jazz Scholar, Sherrie Jean Tucker, PhD, Professor, American Studies, University of Kansas and co–editor of the journal American Studies who talks about the social culture of mid–century jazz and the “all–girl” bands of the 1940’s.) | Lecture: Library of Congress – Whittall Pavilion Concert: Library of Congress – Coolidge Auditorium (http://www.loc.gov/concerts/charlie–parker–100.html) | Free (but tickets are required) | |
| New | Mon., 4/13/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Christopher Cross (American singer–songwriter from San Antonio, Texas. His debut album earned him five Grammy Awards. Best known for song, "Sailing". Page loves; Agnes not as much because of his short phrasing.) | Birchmere | TBD |
| Tue., 4/14/2020–Sun., 4/26/2020 | 7:30pm Tue–Sun 1:30pm Sat & Sun | Jesus Christ Superstar* (Jesus Christ Superstar is an iconic musical phenomenon with a worldwide fan base. In celebration of its 50th anniversary, a new mesmerizing production comes to North America. With music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Gethsemane,” and “Superstar.”) | Kennedy Center – Opera House | $39–$159 (on sale 11/12/19) | |
| Wed., 4/15/2020 | 7:30pm | Laurin Talese* (Young female jazz standards vocalist with a lovely voice; Winner of the 2018 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition) | Kennedy Center – Justice Forum | $26 | |
| New | Wed., 4/15/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Christian Sands* (Steinway Artist and three–time Grammy Nominee — is an emerging jazz force. His abundant piano technique perfectly matches his conception, accomplishing a much deeper musical goal: a fresh look at the entire language of jazz whether it’s stride, swing, bebop, progressive, fusion, Brazilian or Afro–Cuban) | Blues Alley | $25 |
| Wed., 4/15/2020 | 7:30pm | Artist in Residence: Nataly Merezhuk, jazz violinist (Nataly Merezhuk is a violinist who has embraced the role of the violin in jazz following her extensive classical training at Peabody Conservaotry. Originally from Russia, she performs with orchestras in the greater DC area, including the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. Her interest in jazz has led her to perform in smaller acoustic ensembles and duos, with styles and sounds influenced by Svend Asmussen and Stephane Grappelli. Merezhuk was drawn to jazz for its improvisational nature, making her an extremely versatile musician and performer.) | Strathmore Mansion | $19 | |
| Thu., 4/16/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | The Steeldrivers* “Bad For You” Tour with Emily Julia Kresky*(Solo) (Grammy–nominated Nashville Bluegrass Band made of seasoned session musicians/songwriters) | Birchmere | $45 | |
| New | Fri., 4/17/2020 | 8pm | David Wilcox* (American folk musician and singer–songwriter guitarist with a nice voice similar music to John Denver; a songwriter's songwriter) | Jammin Java | $30–$35 |
| New | Tue., 4/21/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Jonny Lang (American blues, gospel, and rock singer, songwriter, guitarist and recording artist. Lang's music is notable for both his unusual voice, which at 13 was compared to that of a 40–year–old blues veteran, and for his guitar solos; Note: We won't be going because we think the price is a bit steep for him.) | Birchmere | $75 |
| New | Fri., 4/24/2020 | 8pm | Vuyo Sutashe* (A young artist stepping into the spotlight as a headliner with a tenor voice that rings like a bell on American Songbook music.) | Black Rock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874 (301.528.2260 ; https://www.blackrockcenter.org/events/category/2019–2020–season) | $25–$45 |
| Fri., 4/24/2020 | 8pm | Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn (The Hylton Center welcomes banjo superstars Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn in a special concert sure to captivate, with their unique mix of alternative bluegrass that is both familiar and boundary–pushing. The husband and wife duo, who met at a square dance, are each banjo icons in their own rights.) | Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall, 10960 George Mason Center, Manassas, VA (http://hylton.calendar.gmu.edu) | $48, $41, $29 | |
| Fri., 4/24/2020 | 8pm | Karla Bonoff* (Velvety–voiced, folk–pop singer–songwriter whose heartfelt ballads have been covered by Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, and Wynonna Judd; reminescent of Carole King) | Wolf Trap – Barns | $32–$37 | |
| Fri., 4/24/2020 | 8:15pm | BSO: Off The Cuff/Holst the Planets* (The BSO salutes the 30th anniversary of the Hubble Telescope, complete with Hubble photos and a special guest from NASA.) | Strathmore Music Center | $35–$90 | |
| Fri., 4/24/2020–Sun., 4/26/2020 | 11am–6pm Fri. 11am–5pm Sat. 1pm–5pm | Blues Alley Jazz Society Presents the 16th Annual Big Band Jam! Fri., 4/24/2020: High School Big Bands from Arlington, VA, Henlopen, DE, Potomac, MD & Columbia, MD Sat., 4/25/2020: College Big Bands from Switzerland, American University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, Peabody Institute, and Berklee College Sun., 4/26/2020: Professional Big Bands including Yoko Miwa Trio*, Miggy Miyajima* & Miho Hazama* feat. Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra*; and US Army Blues feat. Makoto Ozone/piano* | Sylvan Ampitheater, National Mall, Independence Ave SW & 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20024 (http://www.ellafitzgeraldcompetition.org/) | Free & Open to Public | |
| Sat., 4/25/2020 | TBD | Blues Alley Jazz Society Presents the 4th Annual Ella Fitzgerald Vocal Jazz Competition*: 1964 recording “Ella Sings Mercer” Theme (Preliminary competition of about 30 entrants will be at Lisner Auditorium with the 5 finalists competing at Blues Alley that evening on what would have been Ella Fitzgerald’s 103rd birthday.) | Lisner Auditorium, GWU, 730 21st Street NW, DC and Blues Alley (http://www.ellafitzgeraldcompetition.org/) | Free & Open to Public | |
| New | Sun., 4/26/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | MollyTuttle* (vocalist, songwriter, banjo player and guitarist, recording artist and teacher in the bluegrass tradition, noted for her flatpicking, clawhammer, and cross–picking guitar prowess. Good picker & has sweet voice.) | Birchmere | TBD |
| Wed., 4/29/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Julia Fordham (Pop British singer–songwriter. Her professional career started in the early 1980s, under the name "Jules Fordham", as a backing singer for Mari Wilson and Kim Wilde, before signing a recording contract of her own later that decade. Fordham is now based in California. She is a favorite of Page's.) | Birchmere | $29.50 | |
| Wed., 4/29/2020 | 7:30pm | Artist in Residence: Nataly Merezhuk*, jazz violinist (Nataly Merezhuk is a violinist who has embraced the role of the violin in jazz following her extensive classical training at Peabody Conservaotry. Originally from Russia, she performs with orchestras in the greater DC area, including the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. Her interest in jazz has led her to perform in smaller acoustic ensembles and duos, with styles and sounds influenced by Svend Asmussen and Stephane Grappelli. Merezhuk was drawn to jazz for its improvisational nature, making her an extremely versatile musician and performer.) | Strathmore Mansion | $19 | |
| Thu., 4/30/2020–Sun., 5/3/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | John Pizzarelli (fabulous 7–string 2nd generation jazz guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and bandleader with an ok voice) | Blues Alley | $40 Thu. & Sun. $45 Fri. & Sat. | |
| Sun., 5/3/2020 | 5pm | The Kingdom Choir* & Washington Performing Arts; Children of the Gospel Choir* with Michele Fowlin, artistic director (Gospel, London–Style; Long before the Kingdom Choir performed “Stand By Me” at the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, this ensemble, formed in 1994, had already performed for Queen Elizabeth II, Desmond Tutu, Bill Clinton, and Nelson Mandela. Their enthusiastic blend of sacred and secular music, including gospel, spirituals, and pop arrangements, will be perfectly complemented by the exuberant and gifted singers of Washington Performing Arts’ own Children of the Gospel Choir, who will open the concert.) | Lisner Auditorium, GWU, 730 21st Street NW, DC (http://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/calendar/view.aspx?id=4172) | $25–$45 | |
| Wed., 5/6/2020 | 8pm | Solo Piano Mastery II: EMANUEL AX, piano (beloved American pianist who has been a fixture of the piano world since his 1974 win at the first Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Competition; He will be performing an all– Beethoven program that includes "Fur Elise", 5 Variations on "Rule, Britannia!, Piano Sonatos Nos. 1, 2, & 3, and 6 Variations on an original piano theme.) | Strathmore Music Center | $45–$85 | |
| Thu., 5/7/2020–Sun., 5/10/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Monty Alexander (Jamaican jazz pianist currently residing in NYC. His playing has a Caribbean influence and bright swinging feeling, with a strong vocabulary of bebop jazz and blues rooted melodies with a repertoire of American songbook standards, jazz standards, pop hits, and Jamaican songs.) | Blues Alley | $40 Thu. & Sun. $45 Fri. & Sat. | |
| New | Fri., 5/8/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show | Paul Thorn (Singer–Songwriter from Tupelo Mississippi, former boxer, son of a Tent Evangelist; nephew of a pimp; etc. His songs are written from his life and many times are hysterical; Americana) with Jamie McLean* (Solo; Rock/Blues Guitarist/Singer of the Dirty Dozen Brass) | Birchmere | $40 |
| Fri., 5/8/2020 | 8pm | Lewis Black: It Gets Better Evey Day (grumpy comedian | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | TBD | |
| Fri., 5/8/2020 | 7pm & 9pm | Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival: Dee Dee Bridgewater and friends (On May 8, the Kennedy Center celebrates the 70th Birthday of an artist who performed at the first Williams Festival in 1996, host and NEA Jazz Master Dee Dee Bridgewater. Join Dee Dee as she takes the stage to perform with a select group of her closest friends in a birthday bash not–to–be missed. A full line–up will be announced at a later date.) | Kennedy Center – Terrace Theater | $40–$60 | |
| Fri., 5/8/2020–Sun. 5/17/2020 | 7:30pm Tue–Thu & Sun 8pm Fri–Sat 2pm Sat–Sun | Blue Man Group: Speechless (You’ll rock, laugh, and party! As three bald and blue men explore our world, together we’ll discover music, comedy and surprises at every turn. BLUE MAN GROUP is perfect for audiences of all ages and cultural backgrounds, and returns to D.C. with new music, fresh stories, custom instruments, and spectacle like never before. We saw this years ago in NYC and had a blast!) | National Theater | $54–$114 | |
| Sat., 5/9/2020 | 7pm & 9pm | Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival: Artemis Supergroup (On May 9, the Festival continues with the featured supergroup, Artemis, with Renee Rosnes, Noriko Ueda, Allison Miller, Melissa Aldana, Ingrid Jensen, and Anat Cohen. Celebrate the life and work of Mary Lou Williams—who blazed a trail by overcoming industry gender and racial discrimination with a fearless devotion to musical innovation and creativity. A full line–up will be announced at a later date.) | Kennedy Center – Terrace Theater | $40–$60 | |
| Sat., 5/9/2020–Sat., 5/23/2020 | 7:30pm | Washington National Opera: Porgy and Bess (Gershwin’s quintessential American masterpiece melds jazz, folk, and gospel styles. Bess finds herself torn between steadfast love and the dark demons that tug her elsewhere. George Gershwin: Porgy and Bess with Loren Schoenberg. Join Swing University on Jan 15–16, 6:30pm–8:30pm for a special two–night course examining the background, the creation, and the lasting legacy of this musical masterpiece.) | Kennedy Center – Opera House | $45–$299 | |
| New | Sun., 5/10/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Bria Skonberg (American Songbook Jazz Trumpet & Vocals; blends modern–day pop sensibility with sizzling musicianship, smoky vocals, blistering trumpet, and compelling compositions) | Amp by Strathmore | $26–$38 |
| Thu., 5/14/2020 | 6:30pm Lecture 8pm Concert | CONCERT: Fly Higher: Charlie Parker @ 100 (a centennial tribute to jazz legend and bebop pioneer Charlie ("Bird') Parker, performed by.Rudresh Mahanthappa (Sax),Terri Lyne Carrington (Grammy–winning drummer, Charenée Wade (vocals), Adam O'Farrill (trumpet), Kris Davis (piano), Larry Grenadier (bass) and Kassa Overall, (DJ). PRE–CONCERT LECTURE about the social culture of mid–century jazz and the “all–girl” bands of the 1940’s with Library of Congress Jazz Scholar, Sherrie Jean Tucker, PhD, Professor, American Studies, University of Kansas and co–editor of the journal American Studies. | Library of Congress–Whittail Pavilion (Lecture) & Coolidge Auditorium (Concert), 101 Independence Ave SE, DC (http://www.loc.gov/concerts/seasonataglance.html) | Free (Tickets Required) | |
| Thu., 5/14/2020–Sun., 5/17/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Arturo Sandoval (Cuban–American jazz trumpeter, pianist and composer who plays jazz standards rather than Latin jazz) | Blues Alley | TBD | |
| Sat., 5/16/2020 | 8pm | Danilo Pérez’s Global Messengers* (The jazz piano master and UNESCO Artist for Peace leads an international sextet boasting musicians from Palestine, Greece, Jordan, and Panama with the goal of building community through music that is based on fusion.) | Sixth & I | $35 | |
| New | Sat., 5/16/2020–Sun., 5/17/2020 | All Day | Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival*: (raise money for local charities) Saturday, May 16th, 2020: Blues Traveler; The Spinners*; Joanne Shaw Taylor*; Southern Avenue*; Elektric Voodoo*; Wayne Baker Brooks*; The Chesapeake Bay Blues Band featuring Patty Reese*, Daryl Davis, Mark Wenner, Dave Chappell Sunday, May 17th, 2020: Buddy Guy; Shemekia Copeland; Christone “Kingfish” Ingram*; Cash Box Kings*; Vanessa Collier*; Altered Five* | Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, MD | Holiday Ticket Prices (12/16–12/31): * One Day Pass $55 * Two Day Pass $100 * VIP Tkt Package $550 |
| New | Sun., 5/17/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | CHICKS WITH HITS: Terri Clark, Pam Tillis, Suzy Bogguss (I've seem this show twice and am definitely ready to see these top notch country vocalists a third time) | Birchmere | $70 |
| New | Tue., 5/19/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Herb Alpert and Lani Hall (Jazz Trumpet Player/Producer/Composer/ Bandleader/Co–Founder of A&M Records with his wife, a jazz vocalist/Lyricist/ Author in her own right) | Birchmere | $65 |
| Thu., 5/21/2020 | 8pm | Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis: Jazz Ambassadors – The Music of Duke, Dizzy, Brubeck, and Goodman (Trumpet master Marsalis and the incomparable JLCO perform a swinging tribute to four jazz giants. What do Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck, and Benny Goodman have in common? Beyond their status as jazz legends, they were also global jazz ambassadors, touring extensively internationally and expanding the art form’s worldwide reputation and appeal.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $35–$85 | |
| Thu., 5/28/2020 | 8pm | Salute to Strayhorn – Concert: Big Band Evening: Strayhorn Known and Unknown (Loren Schoenberg, conductor; Our Salute to Strayhorn celebrates the music and legacy of an original American voice, and the addition of his papers to the Library’s major holdings in jazz. Loren Schoenberg, Senior Scholar at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem, has delved into the archives to program a wonderful big–band evening that will bring to life both great Strayhorn classics and a few sparkling gems heard for the first time). | Library of Congress – Coolidge Auditorium (http://www.loc.gov/concerts/billy–strayhorn–may28.html) | Free (but tickets are required) | |
| Thu., 5/28/2020–Fri., 5/29/2020 | 7pm Thu. 11:30am Fri. | National Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven at 250: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 3 (In honor of Beethoven’s 250th birthday, Gianandrea Noseda leads the Orchestra in a three–week festival of concerts celebrating the composer’s remarkable genius and impact on music. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear all nine of his symphonies—music that resounds as loudly today as it did two centuries ago. All five programs will be recorded for future release. "There were three artists who changed the world. Of course, there are many, many other great ones, but these actually changed the world: Da Vinci, Dante, and of course, Beethoven.”—Gianandrea Noseda. The tribute to Beethoven begins with an exciting concert featuring Beethoven’s Third Symphony, “Eroica,” a major turning point in musical history. The work illustrates the composer’s own spiritual quest towards heroism as he coped with deafness and found new triumph in his art and life. Also on the program is Beethoven’s First Symphony and his Overture to The Creatures of Prometheus, a popular ballet inspired by another hero whose suffering ultimately helped mankind, the rebellious Greek Titan who stole fire from the Gods to give to mortals.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $15–$99 | |
| New | Fri., 5/29/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | The Subdudes (American roots rock group from New Orleans. Their music is a blending of American folk, swamp pop, New Orleans rhythm and blues, Louisiana blues, country, cajun/zydeco, funk, soul and gospel with harmonic vocals. We were a little disappointed at their last show. But perhaps they were having a bad night.) | Birchmere | $35 |
| Postponed | Fri., 5/29–Sun., 5/31/2020 (was Thu., 3/19/2020–Sat., 3/21/2020) | 7:30pm & 9:45pm Thu.& Fri., 7pm & 9:30pm Sat. | Tom Papa (a must–see for us; Tom is a master of observational comedy, laying out his side of the story with a mix of exasperation and amusement. He has landed gigs as an actor, a TV host, and the head writer for the NPR show "Live From Here." Now he's even on the radio waves, co–hosting "What a Joke" on Netflix's SiriusXM comedy channel.) | DC Improv | $20 GA $45 VIP (Preferred Seating & Post M&G) |
| Sat., 5/30/2020 | 5pm Keynote Lecture 6pm Panel | Salute to Strayhorn – Billy Strayhorn Symposium (David Hajdu, author of Lush Life: A Biography of Billy Strayhorn will present a lecture about Strayhorn's life. This is followed by a panel discussion with expert Strayhorn scholars examining the composer’s career, from his earliest years in Pittsburgh through his 28–year collaboration with Duke Ellington. Panel members will be Robert G. O’Meally, Zora Neale Hurston/Professor of English, Columbia University, Lisa Barg/Associate Professor at Schuller School of Music of McGill University, A.Alyce Claerbaut/President of Strayhorn Songs, Inc.; Walter van de Leur/Professor of Jazz and Improvised Music at University of Amsterdam, and with David Hajdu as moderator.) | Library of Congress – Whittail Pavilion (http://www.loc.gov/concerts/billy–strayhorn–symposium–may30.html) | Free (but tickets are required) | |
| Sat., 5/30/2020 | 8pm | Salute to Strayhorn – Concert: The Bill Charlap Trio with Jon Faddis featuring special guest Cécile McLorin Salvant (Jazz; Bill Charlap and his Trio appear with two superb partners for a charming, close–focus encounter with Strayhorn’s unforgettable songs—and a few scintillating piano solos. Fearless and inventive, multiple Grammy–Award winner Cécile McLorin Salvant has been called “the finest jazz singer to emerge in the last decade” (New York Times). Trumpeter Jon Faddis “possesses a virtually unparalleled range and full command of his instrument, making the practically impossible seem effortless” (Time Out New York). It’s a potent artistic partnership, one appropriate to honor what the Library’s jazz curator Larry Appelbaum calls “the creative work of a musical architect of the highest order…one who added greatly to the brilliance and beauty of 20th–century music.” ) | Library of Congress – Coolidge Auditorium (http://www.loc.gov/concerts/billy–strayhorn–may30.html) | Free (but tickets are required; available 12/11/19, 10am) | |
| Sat., 5/30/2020 & Wed., 6/3/2020 | 8pm Sat. 7pm Wed. | National Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven at 250: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 5 (Famed for its iconic four–note opening, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is one of the most well–known and influential pieces of music ever composed. Imaginative, violent, and wide–ranging, the colossal crowd–pleaser immerses the audience in Beethoven’s state of mind with dramatic tension that builds to a passionate climax. Complementing the program are two works deeply connected to the composer’s rebellious ideals: his Second Symphony and third Leonore Overture.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $15–$99 | |
| New | Sun., 5/31/2020 | TBD | Grand Opening of Planet Word Museum* (a technology–driven museum that allows visitors to explore the world of etymology (the study of word origins) and language arts. It will feature exhibits that welcome readers and speakers of all ages and levels, covering more than 55 international languages and challenging visitors to “joke, sing, speak, read and write.”) | Planet Word Museum, 1300 I Street NW, Suite 400E, Washington, DC (https://www.planetwordmuseum.org/) | TBD |
| New | Sun., 5/31/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Tab Benoit: Whiskey Bayou Revue (Cajun Rock Singer–Songwriter–Guitarist; Lots of fun unless he starts drinking. And, then he talks too much and plays too little.) | Birchmere | TBD |
| New | Thu., 6/4/2020–Sun., 6/7/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Eddie Palmieri (bandleader, arranger and composer of salsa and Latin jazz) | Blues Alley | $55 Thu. & Sun. $50 Fri. & Sat. |
| Fri., 6/5/2020–Sat., 6/6/2020 | 8pm | National Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven at 250: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 7 (Beethoven’s Fourth Symphony starts small but grows into a giant. Upon first hearing the masterpiece, 26–year–old Robert Schumann was so enthralled that he “sat in place without moving a muscle or even breathing.” Beethoven’s Overture from Egmont opens the program, and his Seventh Symphony makes for a visceral, high–voltage finale.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $15–$99 | |
| New | Fri., 6/5/2020–Sat., 6/6/2020 | 6:30PM DO/ 8pm Sat. | Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (We saw this on Broadway and it was fantastic!) | Wolf Trap – Filene Center | $32 up (on sale 2/22) |
| New | Sat., 6/6/2020 | 7pm DO/9pm Show | Brad Williams (Dwarf Comedian who is absolutely hysterical!) | The State Theater | $30 GA $40 Gold Circle (seat in the section closest to the stage) |
| Tue., 6/9/2020–Wed. 6/10/2020 | 7pm | National Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven at 250: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 8 (Join Noseda for a program of masterworks beginning with the rapid–fire wit of Beethoven’s Coriolan overture, followed by an explosive musical firecracker: his Eighth Symphony. Beethoven's “Pastoral” Symphony, which features some of the composer’s most memorable melodies. By the end of this heavenly concert, the audience finds itself gently transported to the Viennese countryside.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $15–$99 | |
| New | Wed., 6/10/2020 | 6pm DO/8pm Show & 9:45pm DO/10pm Show | Sinne Eeg* (Danish jazz vocalist Sinne Eeg (sée–neh/ée) is known throughout the world) | Blues Alley | $25 |
| Fri., 6/12/2020–Sun., 6/14/2020 | 8pm | National Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven at 250: Symphony No. 9 (The NSO culminates its tribute with Beethoven’s epic Ninth, the symphony by which all others are measured. Witness the vast cosmic drama of this groundbreaking piece, which was the first symphony to introduce vocals in an orchestration. With its grand emotional melodies and tremendous final “Ode to Joy,” Beethoven’s final symphony resounds as loudly today as it did two centuries ago.) | Kennedy Center – Concert Hall | $15–$99 | |
| Tue., 6/16/2020–Sun., 9/20/2020 | TBD | Hamilton* (Hip–hop history; This is the show for you if you have money burning a hole in your pocket.) | Kennedy Center – Opera House | $99–$550 (on sale in spring 2020) | |
| Tue., 6/23/2020–Sun., 7/12/2020 | TBD | Once on this Island* (“What a delight it is to enter the world of Once on This Island!” raves the New York Times. Winner of the 2018 Tony Award® for best revival of a musical, Once on This Island is the sweeping, universal tale of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl in search of her place in the world, and ready to risk it all for love. Guided by the mighty island gods, Ti Moune sets out on a remarkable journey to reunite with the man who has captured her heart.) | Kennedy Center – Eisenhower Theater | $45–$129 (on sale 2/25/2020) | |
| New | Fri., 6/26/2020 | 5:30pm DO/7pm Show | John Prine* & Emmy Lou Harris (Icons; Warning: The audience's rude talking drowned Emmy Lou out the last time we tried to hear her at Filene Center) | Wolftrap – Filene Center | $42 up (on sale 2/22) |
| New | Sat., 6/27/2020 | 1pm | 4th Annual Frederick JAZZ FESTIVAL* (The 4th Annual Frederick Jazz Festival brings GRAMMY and professional jazz artists from the DMV to the Weinberg Center.) | Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD (https://weinbergcenter.org/) | $38 Adv/$52 Door |
| New | Tue., 7/7/2020–Wed., 7/8/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Steely Dan with special Guest Steve Winwood (Classic Rock; Warning: We've given up on Filene Center due to the rude, non–stop talking audience) | Wolftrap – Filene Center | $47 up |
| New | Tue., 7/14/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Straight No Chaser (great male a capella group; Warning: We've given up on Filene Center due to the rude, non–stop talking audience) | Wolftrap – Filene Center | $32 up (on sale 2/22) |
| New | Sun., 7/19/2020 | 6:30pm DO/8pm Show | Chick Corea & The Spanish Heart Band (jazz fusion) with special guest Rubén Blades (Warning: We've given up on Filene Center due to the rude, non–stop talking audience) | Wolftrap – Filene Center | $32 up (on sale 2/22) |
| New | Sun., 7/19/2020 | 7pm | Nate Najar (Our favorite acoustic jazz guitarist – American Songbook & Brazilian) | 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery, 49 West, Annapolis, MD 20401 (http://49westcoffeehouse.com/) | TBD |
| ROAD TRIP | Wed., 7/22/2020–Sun., 7/26/2020 | TBD | 2020 FloydFest: Vision Quest: Ceelo Green*; Grace Potter*; Andy Frasco & the UN*; Downton Abby & the Echos*; Mason Via & Hot Trail Mix*; and many more TBA | Festival Site: 894 Rock Castle Gorge Road, Floyd, VA 24091 (https://floydfest.com) | On Sale Now: $185 3–Day GA $210 4–Day GA $235 5–Day GA $30 Kid (ages 6–12) Free Kid (ages 0–5) Parking Passes Camping Options High–Roller All Access VIP Bundles |
| New | Tue., 7/28/2020–Sun., 8/30/2020 | 7:30pm Tue.–Fri. 12:30pm & 4pm Sat. & Sun. | Cirque du Soleil: Alegria in a new light (Big top choreographed circus where music is a big part of the show; no animal acts) | Under the Big Top, Tysons II (https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/usa/washington/alegria/buy–tickets) | $55 up |
| New | Sat., 8/15/2020 | 7:30pm | Rod Stewart* with Cheap Trick* (Kind of an odd pairing of two '70s icons) | Merriwether Post Pavilion, Columbia, MD | $39 Up (TicketMaster) |
| Tue., 8/25/2020–Sun., 9/27/2020 | TBD | To Kill A Mockingbird* (Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin has adapted Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize–winning masterwork for the stage with spectacular, universally praised results, creating "a modern American classic" (The Hollywood Reporter) and the most coveted ticket of the Broadway season. | Kennedy Center – Eisenhower Theater | $49–$139 (on sale 2/25/2020) | |
| New | Mon., 9/7/2020 | 1pm–7pm | 27th Annual Rosslyn Jazz Festival: (Attendees can enjoy the live music while indulging in items from local food trucks and sips from the pop–up beer and wine garden, as well as the latest installation in the Arlington Art Truck.) The Suffers* (American soul, funk, and R&B group from Houston, Texas) Cha Wa* (New Orleans brass band in traditional Mardi Gras Native American attire) Leyla McCalla* (Singer/cellist formerly of the Carolina Chocolate Drops) The JoGo Project* (mix of jazz and go–go) | Gateway Park, 1300 Lee Highway, Arlington, VA | Free |
| New | Fri., 9/11/2020–Sun., 9/13/2020 | 3pm Open – Fri., 9am Open – Sat., 10am Open – Sun. | 20th Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion (Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit*; Tanya Tucker*; Moon Taxi*; Rhonda Vincent; Lonesome River Band*; Folk Soul Revival*; Ian Noe*; Katie Pruitt*; Town Mountain*; Red Molly*; Great Peacock*; I Draw Slow*; Sol Driven Train*; Annabelle's Curse*; The East Pointers*; Seth Walker; Morgan Wade*; Cicada Rhythm*; Big Daddy Love*; Joe Hertler & the Rainbow Seekers*; Mo Lowda & the Humble*; Sierra Ferrell*; Songs from the Road Band*; Hank, Pattie, & the Current*; Desert Noises*; Carly Burress*;Roanoke*; The Red Clay Strays*; Fedor & the Denim Denim*; The Mammoths*; and many more TBA) | Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 520 Birthplace of Country Music Way, Bristol, TN (www.BristolRhythm.com) | 3 Day Wristband: $90 til 4/30/20 $100 5/1/20–8/30/20 $115 9/1/20–9/15/2 ; $125 Gate |
| New | Thu., 10/22/2020 | 6pm DO/7:30pm Show | Drew Lynch* (American stand–up comedian known for his 2015 appearance on the tenth season of America's Got Talent, finishing in second place in the finale. ) | Birchmere | $29.50 |
| 10/30/2020–11/12/2020 | All Day | Jazz Alive 2020 Cruise – Quebec to Miami (13–Day Cruise on the Crystal Serenity from Québec to Miami with stops in Quebec City, Quebec; ( Gulf of St. Lawrence); Boston, MA; NYC; Norfolk, VA; Hamilton, Bermuda; Miami, FL. Jazz Musicians: Dave Bennett Quartet, Kristin Korb, Pieter Meijers, Warren Vache, Antti Sarpila, Eddie Metz Jr., Jacob Fischer, Harry Allen, Harry Kanters, AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED...) | Jazzdagen Tours (800–433–0078; jazzdagen.com) | $4,049–$6099 – p.p. based on sharing (Other categories and single rates upon request) | |
| New | Sat., 11/14/2020 | 7pm | Nate Najar (Our favorite acoustic jazz guitarist – American Songbook & Brazilian) | 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery, 49 West, Annapolis, MD 20401 (http://49westcoffeehouse.com/) | TBD |