2026 International Blues Challengers Announced

This list was provided by The Blues Foundation on 12/30/25.

Jazz & Blues Florida does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of this list.

Florida specific information is posted at: https://jazz-bluesflorida.blogspot.com/2025/08/2025-florida-regional-competitions-to.html 

• Bands: 64

• Solo/Duo: 57

• Youth Acts: 14

• Non-USA Countries Represented: 10 (Australia, Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Finland, France, Korea, Luxembourg, Netherlands, United Kingdom)

Total entries: 135

Adelaide Roots and Blues Association, Don Morrison – Solo/Duo
Atlanta Blues Society, Blue Velvet Atlanta – Band
Atlanta Blues Society, Scott Low – Solo/Duo
Belgian Blues Federation, PD Martin – Solo/Duo
Blues Association of South East Queensland, 8 Ball Aitken & Taya Chani – Band
Blues Club Luxembourg, Rockin’ Dukes – Band
Blues Society of Northwest Florida, Charlie and the Hammerheads – Band
Blues Society of Northwest Florida, The Brothers – Deezer & Rocky D – Solo/Duo
Blues Society of Omaha, Brady Wells – Solo/Duo
Blues Society of Omaha, The Memphis Project – Youth Act
Blues Society of Omaha, The Pocket Architects – Band
Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania, “Big” Bay Allen – Solo/Duo
Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania, The Jason Born Trio – Band
Boston Blues Society, 21 Grams More – Band
Boston Blues Society, Frank EB – Solo/Duo
Capital Area Blues Society, Just Magnetic – Band
Capital Region Blues Network, Amy Ryan Band – Band
Capital Region Blues Network, Trevor Collins – Solo/Duo
Cascade Blues Association, Lilla – Solo/Duo
Cascade Blues Association, Nikki Jones Band – Band
Cascade Blues Association, Sleeper Wave – Youth Act
Central Iowa Blues Society, The Other Brothers – Band
Central Iowa Blues Society, Weary Ramblers – Solo/Duo
Central Kentucky Blues Society, Dane Sadler Band – Band
Central Kentucky Blues Society, Leo Freakdaddy Brown – Solo/Duo
Central Kentucky Blues Society, The Glass Heads – Youth Act
Charlotte Blues Society, Mojo Stomp – Band
Charlotte Blues Society, Rick Tobey – Solo/Duo
Charlotte Blues Society, The Giftt – Youth Act
Cincy Blues Society, Cat Campbell & the $2 Pistols – Band
Cincy Blues Society, Mutt & Jeff – Solo/Duo
Colorado Blues Society, Mad Dog Blues Solo – Solo/Duo
Colorado Blues Society, Reckless and Blue – Band
Columbus Blues Alliance, 614 BluesEd Band – Youth Act
Columbus Blues Alliance, Cigar Box Scott – Solo/Duo
Columbus Blues Alliance, Just Another Mojo – Band
Connecticut Blues Society, The Chicago Dawgs – Band
Connecticut Blues Society, THUMB-BONE – Solo/Duo
Croatian Blues Forces, Bilievo Maslo – Band
Croatian Blues Forces, Bugi – Solo/Duo
Crossroads Blues Society of Illinois, Knott Us Band – Youth Act
DC Blues Society Inc, Lucie and Luna Blues – Solo/Duo
DC Blues Society Inc, Nella B. & The Noise – Band
DeltaBlues, Gloria & The Doctors – Solo/Duo
Detroit Blues Society, Brendon Linsley Band – Band
Detroit Blues Society, DeSoto Drive – Solo/Duo
Dutch Blues Foundation, Mister Moan – Solo/Duo
Dutch Blues Foundation, The Hoochies – Band
Finnish Blues Society, Jantso Jokelin – Solo/Duo
First Coast Blues Society, Ben Flournoy – Youth Act
First Coast Blues Society, Ben Flournoy Trio – Band
First Coast Blues Society, Lonesome Jim Weber – Solo/Duo
Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society, The Procrastinators – Band
France Blues, Olivier Gotti – Solo/Duo
France Blues, The Blue-Footed Boobies – Band
Granite State Blues Society, Bees Deluxe – Band
Greater West Texas Blues Society, Barlow – Solo/Duo
Greater West Texas Blues Society, Leon Carrasco & Twice as Nice – Band
Houston Blues Society, Tweed Smith and the Internationals – Band
Huntington Blues Society, Anything Blue – Band
Inland Empire Blues Society, Backbeat Slam! – Solo/Duo
Inland Empire Blues Society, Bobby Patterson Band – Band
Kansas City Blues Society, Black HOK – Youth Act
Kansas City Blues Society, Legerdemain – Band
Kansas City Blues Society, The Redbeards – Solo/Duo
Kentuckiana Blues Society, Gabe Spohn – Youth Act
Kentuckiana Blues Society, Gina and Johnny – Band
Kentuckiana Blues Society, Trevor Davis – Solo/Duo
Korea Blues Society – Korea, KY Band – Band
Lowcountry Blues Club, Albert and The Smoking Section – Band
Lowcountry Blues Club, Jared Petteys – Solo/Duo
Magic City Blues Society, Earl “Guitar” Williams – Solo/Duo
Magic City Blues Society, Hurricane Elaine Hudson – Band
Maine Blues Society, Mike Van Summern Duo – Solo/Duo
Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society, Cam Walter Blues – Band
Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society, Damon Smith – Solo/Duo
Memphis Blues Society, Davis Coen Band – Band
Memphis Blues Society, Effie & John – Solo/Duo
Mile High Blues Society, Doc Brown’s Blues Band – Band
Mile High Blues Society, Tracy Edwards – Solo/Duo
Minnesota Blues Society, Bambi Alexandra Band – Band
Minnesota Blues Society, Ken Valdez – Solo/Duo
Mississippi Delta Blues Society of Indianola, Twice the Blues a.k.a. Variety – Solo/Duo
Mississippi Delta Blues Society of Indianola, Willie Lee Halbert and the Fingerprint Band – Band
Montreal Blues Society, Father’n’Son – Solo/Duo
Nashville Blues and Roots Alliance, Music City Youth Allstars – Youth Act
Nashville Blues and Roots Alliance, Shantelle & The Juke Joint Band – Band
New Orleans Blues Society, Big Mike & The R&B Kings – Band
New Orleans Blues Society, Sean Riley – Solo/Duo
North Central Florida Blues Society, Jasper Smitty – Solo/Duo
North Jersey Blues Society, Ed Alstrom – Solo/Duo
North Jersey Blues Society, The Outcrops – Band
Northern Arizona Blues Alliance, Chicago Bob and the Blues Squad – Band
Northern Arizona Blues Alliance, Garrett James and the Wanderers – Youth Act
Ouachita River Blues Society, Doug Duffey and BADD – Band
Ouachita River Blues Society, Fort Sumner Music School Blues Band – Youth Act
Ouachita River Blues Society, Toby Traylo – Solo/Duo
Ozark Blues Society of NW Arkansas, Batterton and Edwards – Solo/Duo
Ozark Blues Society of NW Arkansas, The RD Olson Blues Band – Band
Paramount Music Association, West Avenue Band – Band
Phoenix Blues Society, RINO – Band
Piedmont Blues Preservation Society, Carolina Rhythm Machine – Band
Piedmont Blues Preservation Society, Greg Grodem – Solo/Duo
Piedmont Blues Preservation Society, White Reverie – Youth Act
Port City Blues Society, Mark Morgan – Solo/Duo
Port City Blues Society, Tina Cossey Band – Band
River City Blues Society (VA), Dara James and the Soul Disciples – Band
River City Blues Society (VA), Rogue Johnsen – Solo/Duo
Sacramento Blues Society, Dirty Laundry – Solo/Duo
Sacramento Blues Society, Mike Hammar and The Nails – Band
Santa Clarita Valley Blues Society, Toni Dodd & Southbound Blues – Band
Saskatoon Blues Society, Whitey Somers – Solo/Duo
Smoky Mountain Blues Society, The Dirty Dougs – Solo/Duo
Smoky Mountain Blues Society, The Jeanine Fuller Band – Band
St. Louis Blues Society, Devin C. Williams – Solo/Duo
St. Louis Blues Society, Rum Drum Ramblers – Band
The Golden Gate Blues Society, Jeffrey James Horan – Solo/Duo
The Golden Gate Blues Society, M’sippi Slide – Band
Thunder Bay Blues Society, Thirsty Monks – Band
Treasure Coast Blues Society, Apostoli Floyd – Band
Treasure Coast Blues Society, Mike Faurot – Solo/Duo
Triangle Blues Society, Joel Keel and Charlley Ward – Solo/Duo
Triangle Blues Society, MAMA – Band
Trinity River Blues Society, EJ Mathews – Solo/Duo
Trinity River Blues Society, Michael King & The Icebreakers – Band
UK Blues Federation, Emma Wilson accompanied by Zacc Crowther – Solo/Duo
Washington Blues Society, Joel Astley Band – Band
Washington Blues Society, Nikhil Bagga – Youth Act
Washington Blues Society, Pitman & Sutton – Solo/Duo
Washmo Blues Society, The Faithful Strays – Band
West Michigan Blues Society, Citizen Jones – Solo/Duo
West Michigan Blues Society, Sunny Bleau and The Moons – Band
Windy City Blues Society, Marty “Big Dog” Mercer Duet – Solo/Duo
Windy City Blues Society, The Paolo Apuli Band – Band
Wiregrass Blues Society, Derrick Dove & the Peacekeepers – Band

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*LOW TIX ALERT* Tab Benoit + Samantha Fish - On a Collision Course for Dothan Alabama April 17, 2026 -

*LOW TIX ALERT* 

ONLY 18 TIX AVAILABLE ON FLOOR LEVEL AS OF 12/28/25!

BALCONY 50% SOLD!

A COLLISION YOU WILL WANT TO BE IN!

Friday, April 17, 2026  Doors: 7p, Show: 8p CST

Dothan Opera House

115 N. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36303

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FACEBOOK EVENT

TICKETS

Catch blues-rock powerhouses Samantha Fish and Tab Benoit as their tours collide for one unforgettable night at the Dothan Opera House in Dothan, AL on April 17, 2026. Known for her explosive guitar work and soulful vocals, Fish brings fiery energy to the stage, while Benoit delivers his signature Louisiana blues with grit and heart. Together, these two dynamic performers promise a night of raw talent, high-octane performances, and electrifying chemistry that blues fans won’t want to miss.

About Tab Benoit
Tab Benoit is a Louisiana-born blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose swamp-blues sound embodies the heart and soul of the bayou. Raised in Houma, Louisiana, he grew up surrounded by Cajun, country, and blues influences that shaped his distinctive musical voice. Benoit began performing in Baton Rouge at the famed Blues Box Club, developing a raw, emotional playing style that became his signature. Since releasing his debut album Nice and Warm in 1992, he has earned multiple Blues Music Awards, Grammy nominations, and international acclaim for his passionate live performances and authentic Southern storytelling through music.

Benoit’s artistry extends beyond the stage — he is a dedicated environmental advocate who founded the nonprofit organization Voice of the Wetlands to raise awareness about the erosion of Louisiana’s coastal ecosystems. His efforts have been recognized nationally, including his role in the IMAX film Hurricane on the Bayou. With his fiery guitar tone, soulful vocals, and unwavering devotion to his home state, Tab Benoit continues to stand among the most respected figures in American roots and blues music.

About Samantha Fish
Samantha Fish is a powerhouse guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter from Kansas City, Missouri, known for her fearless blend of blues, rock, Americana, and soul. She began her musical journey on drums before switching to guitar as a teenager, immersing herself in local blues jams and quickly establishing a name for her explosive playing and dynamic stage presence. Her debut album Runaway earned her the 2012 Blues Music Award for Best New Artist, launching a global touring career that has seen her headline festivals and share stages with artists such as Buddy Guy, Devon Allman, and Tab Benoit.

Across albums including Wild Heart, Chills & Fever, Kill or Be Kind, Faster, and the acclaimed collaboration Death Wish Blues, Fish has continually evolved her sound while staying rooted in the emotional power of the blues. Her commanding performances combine expressive vocals, fiery guitar work, and a modern edge that have made her one of the most dynamic and influential artists of her generation.

About the Dothan Opera House
Built in 1915 and designed by the Atlanta architectural firm Morris & Morris, the Dothan Opera House was originally conceived to serve as both municipal offices and a performance auditorium. Over the years it has hosted plays, musicals, vaudeville shows, concerts, community ceremonies, and more. The Opera House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and underwent a major renovation completed in 2025, preserving its historic charm while adding modern performance enhancements. Located at 115 N. St. Andrews Street in downtown Dothan, it continues to serve as a cultural hub for regional arts and entertainment. Visitor information and performance schedules are available through Visit Dothan.

About Six String Southern Productions
Six String Southern Productions is an independent concert promoter and live event producer based in the Southeast. The company specializes in booking and presenting touring artists across multiple genres, as well as organizing events for private, corporate, and festival settings. As promoter, Six String Southern connects the Dothan Opera House with national and regional talent, helping bring exceptional live performances to audiences across the Wiregrass region.

~ ~ ~

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Gold Coast Jazz Society's "Trio" will Make Your Season Brighter!

🎁✨ Jazz Trios Make the Perfect Gift — and It’s Not Too Late! ✨🎁

Still looking for that last-minute gift? Give the gift of live jazz with a Gold Coast Jazz Trio Subscription — pick 3 concerts of your choice and create unforgettable memories for someone special! 🎷🎶

Jazz Trio Subscription with GCJS Membership

💵 $135 per person (includes handling fee)

Tickets will be mailed to you via the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.

Jazz Trio Subscription – Non-Member

💵 $159 per person (includes handling fee)

Tickets will be mailed via the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.

✨ Whether it’s for a jazz enthusiast or someone new to live music, this thoughtful gift is unique, memorable, and perfect for the holiday season — and there’s still time to get it on Christmas Eve!

🎟 Order your Jazz Trio Subscription now at goldcoastjazz.org.

🔥 Hurry — make this holiday truly unforgettable!

Gold Coast Jazz Society

Welcomes 2026 with

Niki Haris & the Shelly Berg Trio

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 7:45 p.m.

Niki Haris with

the Shelly Berg Trio

Jazz, Soul & Blues

at the

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Amaturo Theater

201 SW 5th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

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TICKETS

Facebook Event Page - Invite your friends!

Vocalist Niki Haris is a multi-talented singer, dancer, actress, and choreographer, and the daughter of Grammy® Award-nominated jazz pianist Gene Harris. Her vocal collaborations read like a "Who’s Who" of the music business, spanning jazz, gospel, blues, pop, and contemporary soul. Niki’s performances connect deeply with audiences, bringing emotional clarity, personal warmth, and a powerful stage presence to every song.

Shelly Berg is a Steinway piano artist and five-time Grammy®-nominated arranger, orchestrator, and producer, with numerous recordings to his credit. He serves as Dean of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music and is widely recognized for his expressive piano artistry and creative energy. Bill Kohlhasse of the Los Angeles Times describes Berg as “a whirlwind of motion on the piano bench who never sounds a dull note,” capturing both his virtuosity and fearless sense of exploration.

The trio features stellar musicians Chuck Bergeron on bass and Gary Novak on drums. Bergeron is a respected educator and bandleader with a deep rhythmic sensibility and arranger’s insight. Novak’s precision, modern swing, and stylistic fluency have made him a first-call drummer for top jazz and contemporary artists. Together, the group frames Niki Haris’ vocal artistry with elegance, energy, and musical storytelling for an evening of jazz, soul, and blues that reflects both tradition and innovation.

UPCOMING GOLD COAST JAZZ SERIES PERFORMANCES!

Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 7:45 p.m.

Diego Figueiredo & Friends

The Jazz Duets

TICKETS

Back by popular demand, Diego Figueiredo and Friends will return in February with The Jazz Duets. Acclaimed as one of the greatest guitarists in the world, Figueiredo will perform a series of duets with his outstanding jazz friends: Nestor Torres on flute, pianist Shelly Berg, and percussionist Sammy Figueroa. An extraordinary star among the world’s leading jazz guitarists, Figueiredo’s superb technique, timing, and imagination have made him one of the hottest international names. His concert performances have been a success in more than 60 countries around the world. He has released 28 CDs, three DVDs, and a book. “I suggest that anyone who knows or appreciates the greatest jazz guitarists who ever lived check out this Brazilian genius," says jazz impresario Todd Barkan.

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | 7:45 p.m.

Karrin Allyson

Karrin's Kaleidoscope

TICKETS

March brings jazz vocalist Karrin Allyson in her Karrin’s Kaleidoscope show to the Amaturo Theater. For her Kaleidoscope concerts, Karrin eases through an eclectic array of styles she’s known for, from her five Grammy®-nominated recordings to the Great American Songbook; from classic pop songs to her own originals from Some of That Sunshine; from French chansons to Brazilian classics; from the blues and bebop to songs of justice and beyond. Showcasing the material of such artists as Bonnie Raitt, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, James Taylor, The Beatles, Billy Joel, Carmen McRae, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Blossom Dearie, Shirley Horn, Mose Allison, João & Astrud Gilberto, Rosa Passos, Djavan, Édith Piaf, and her own compositions, this show is soulful and heartfelt, and her band is always top-notch.

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | 7:45 p.m.

Michael Kaeshammer

Turn It Up

TICKETS

The March concert will feature the return of internationally renowned Canadian pianist and vocalist Michael Kaeshammer. This show is part of his Turn It Up 2024/2025 Tour. The acclaimed Canadian virtuoso pianist and singer has earned an international following as a triple threat: a technical master of many different moods, an eloquent singer-songwriter, and a charming and engaging performer. His signature style weaves classical, jazz, blues, boogie-woogie, stride, and pop into a rich and vibrant sonic tapestry. Turn It Up, Kaeshammer’s 15th album, is a dynamic and rollicking collection that resists a single, catch-all genre.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | 7:45 p.m.

Grace Kelly Quartet

Grace Kelly 20th Anniversary Tour

TICKETS

Closing the concert series in April will be jazz phenom Grace Kelly with her Quartet for the Grace Kelly 20th Anniversary Tour. An unequivocal musical prodigy, singer-saxophonist-songwriter-composer and bandleader, Kelly has energized the jazz world with sold-out concerts, acclaimed albums, and a résumé that includes performing at the Hollywood Bowl and as part of the house band for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert – all before reaching her mid-twenties. She has performed and recorded with renowned artists including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Dave Brubeck, Phil Woods, Huey Lewis, Harry Connick Jr., Gloria Estefan, Questlove, and Wynton Marsalis. Grace is “a jazz innovator… making jazz young,” says Billboard Magazine.

CONNECT WITH GOLD COAST JAZZ!

WEBSITE

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FORT LAUDERDALE VISITOR INFORMATION

The Gold Coast Jazz Society is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of jazz through a mainstage concert series, free community concerts, educational programs, a jazz scholarship program, and services by the Gold Coast Jazz Society Band. Learn more at  goldcoastjazz.org.

Funding for this organization is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council. Concert sponsors include American National Bank, Funding Arts Broward, the Helen Ingham Foundation, the Richard Ingham Concert Fund, and the Mary N. Porter Funds/Community Foundation of Broward.

#JazzBluesFlorida #FloridaJazz #LiveMusic #FortLauderdale #BrowardCenter #GoldCoastJazz #InspirationsInJazz

~ ~ ~

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Tampa Jazz Club and New Tampa Performing Arts Center Presents Chuck Redd w/ La Lucha January 17, 2026

Tampa Jazz Club’s 1st Concert of 2026 at  New Tampa PAC January 17, 2026

“NEW TAMPA JAZZ NIGHTS”

New Tampa Performing Arts Center 

and 

Tampa Jazz Club Series

8550 Hunters Village Road • Tampa, FL 33647

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Saturday, January 17, 2026 • 8:00 PM
Chuck Redd & La Lucha

TICKETS

• Reserved Table Seats $35 (Members $30)
• Theater Seats $30 (Members $25) 
• Students $10 With ID

The Tampa Jazz Club is proud to present the world-renowned vibraphonist and drummer CHUCK REDD with LA LUCHA, on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 8:00 PM, at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. New Tampa Jazz Nights, the series produced by TJC and the Center, is now in its third season.

Chuck Redd emerged on the jazz scene as drummer for guitarist Charlie Byrd, and has toured and recorded with artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Mel Torme, and Dick Hyman. He is currently Music Director for the Oregon Festival of American Music, and continues to appear at top clubs and festivals.

This concert will be a reunion with the remarkable trio La Lucha – John O’Leary, Alejandro Arenas, and Mark Feinman – part of the Bay Area jazz world for two decades. Chuck was among the guests on the trio’s Arbors album, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” produced by Ken Peplowski in 2020.

Don’t miss this Saturday evening with Chuck Redd and La Lucha, in the beautiful New Tampa Performing Arts Center.

Tampa Jazz Club members receive an automatic discount by purchasing 

with the email used for membership. To become a member click HERE.

UPCOMING NEW TAMPA JAZZ NIGHTS CONCERTS

Saturday, March 28, 2026 • 8:00 PM
STretch’s Rubberband
— Overjoyed: A Stevie Wonder Tribute

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 8:00 PM
Dave Stryker

HCC Visual & Performing Arts

&  Tampa Jazz Club Series

Mainstage Theatre — HCC Ybor City Campus

1411 East 11th Avenue • Tampa, FL 33605

MAP      WEBSITE      TICKETS

Sunday, February 1, 2026 • 3:00 PM

Arenas, Lasky & Nash Project
— “The Bacharach Book”

Sunday, February 22, 2026 • 3:00 PM
Scotty Wright Quintet
— What’s Wright, What’s Left

Members receive an automatic discount when purchasing with their membership email.

TAMPA JAZZ CLUB WEBSITE
TAMPA JAZZ CLUB FACEBOOK
TAMPA JAZZ CLUB INSTAGRAM

The Tampa Jazz Club was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1995, with the objective of “generating interest in preserving, understanding and performing jazz.”

~ ~ ~

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Melbourne Municipal Band Keeps the Music Going in 2026 with Jazz, Pops, and Special Ensemble Performances

3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra Presents “Jazz, Lies and Alibis” Jan. 14 & 15, 2026 

WEDNESDAY, JAN 14, 2026 | 7PPreshow: Oh Golly Dixieland Band at 6 PMTHURSDAY, JAN 15, 2026 | 7PPreshow: Oh Golly Dixieland Band at 6 PM

Melbourne Auditorium

625 E. Hibiscus Blvd,

Melbourne, FL 32901

MAP

FREE CONCERTS

Join the 3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra as it presents a musical mission of spy games and undercover capers with “Jazz, Lies and Alibis” on Jan. 14 and 15 at the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901. The concerts are free. Start time is 7 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m. Pre-show entertainment will be provided by the Oh Golly Dixieland Band.

“We’re talking secret agents, sneaky blues, finger-snapping chase scenes and music smooth enough to fool a polygraph,” said Kurt Schulenburg, 3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra director. “Grab your shades and your best alibi – it’s time to go undercover in style.”

Vocalist Krystal Clarke will be featured on two newly crafted arrangements by guitarist Phil Coe – If You Really Love Me and I’m Too Busy. Dave Hutson will sing the Sinatra-standard Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone, and another selection to be announced. The two vocalists will join for the Gershwin standard They Can’t Take That Away From Me.

Three of the evening’s selections are originals written for the show by Schulenburg. “I've got two tunes for secret-agent types – Criminal Caper and Dead Drop Dash – and Three Bass Hit, featuring all of the bass instruments.” 

3-2-1 concerts feature a Concert Cafe seating section, featuring both theater seating along with cafe-style tables. Food and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on site from City Bistro.

Call 321-724-0555 or visit www.MelbourneMunicipalBand.org for more information.

The 3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra is the premier big band of the Melbourne Municipal Band. It delivers an electrifying jazz experience with a rich repertoire from swing-era classics to contemporary jazz and Latin grooves. With a rotating blend of iconic tunes and fresh interpretations, the 3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra creates an unforgettable musical journey.

AND
The Melbourne Municipal Band’s Rock & Roll Revue Performs at Cocoa Village Playhouse Jan. 23, 2026

FRIDAY, JAN 23, 2026 | 7:30PCocoa Village Playhouse300 Brevard Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922MAPRockin’ the VillageFeaturing the Rock & Roll Revue
An ensemble of the Melbourne Municipal BandTICKETING PAGE

Rock & Roll Revue is a featured ensemble of the Melbourne Municipal Band that performs a wide range of popular music spanning the 1950s through the 1970s, along with swing, pop, and jazz favorites. The ensemble will present Rockin’ the Village on January 23, 2026, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Cocoa Village Playhouse, 300 Brevard Ave., Cocoa. Tickets are $35 and are available online at cocoavillageplayhouse.com or by phone at 321-636-5050.

Conducted by Art Martin, the Rock & Roll Revue is a 12-piece ensemble that includes an eight-piece combo, vocalist Tony Schillizzi, and the Swingtimers Vocal Trio, featuring Diana Sageser, Dave Hutson, and Robin Krasny.

“Get ready to groove to the timeless hits of the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s,” said Martin. “It’s a high-energy performance that connects audiences with familiar songs and enduring styles. This is a one-night-only performance, and the show has sold out the past two years, so early ticket purchase is encouraged.”

For more information, call 321-724-0555 or visit www.MelbourneMunicipalBand.org.

For full details and calendar, visit: 

🌐 www.MelbourneMunicipalBand.org 

📞 321-724-0555

Melbourne Visitor Information

Upcoming MMB 2026 Events - Keeping It Happening All Year Long!

Flashback Fever
January 11, 2026

Valentine’s Vibes Dance
February 13, 2026

Love Notes – Tales of Passion
February 18 & 19, 2026

Love Notes – Tales of Passion
February 22, 2026

TV Tunes Tonight
March 4 & 5, 2026

Springtime Swing Concert
March 15, 2026

Why So Serious? A Musical Romp…
April 1 & 2, 2026

Hometown Composers
May 13, 2026

Songs for America
June 24 & 25, 2026

Summer Youth Band Concert
June 26, 2026

Rhythm & Wit
July 15 & 16, 2026

An Evening of Pops!
August 5 & 6, 2026

South Beach Jazz Festival Leads Off Florida's 2026 Festival Year in Miami Beach Style January 8-11

Celebrating 10 Years of Jazz, 

Accessibility, and Community

The South Beach Jazz Festival, presented by nonprofit Power Access, marks its 10th anniversary January 8–11, 2026, with four days of performances, education, and community programming across Miami Beach.

Festival events take place at the Faena Theater, The Bass Museum of Art, Collins Park, Lincoln Road, and the Miami Beach Bandshell, featuring a mix of ticketed and free public concerts.

A centerpiece of the 2026 festival is the Saturday, January 10 performance by the three-time Grammy Award–winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra with trumpeter Etienne Charles at the Miami Beach Bandshell.

Led by pianist and musical director Oscar Hernández, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra is internationally recognized for its precision and dedication to the New York salsa and Latin jazz tradition.

Tickets for the Spanish Harlem Orchestra concert start at $42.50. Miami Beach residents receive a 20% discount with code MB20.

The festival opens Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Faena Theater with Grammy Award–winning guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli presenting “Dear Mr. Bennett,” honoring the music and legacy of Tony Bennett. The 1st of two shows this evening has already SOLD OUT. Limited TICKETS for 10 p.m. show are available.

Earlier that day, Power Access hosts a free virtual discussion, “Accessibility and the Arts,” from 2:00–3:00 p.m., examining innovation in inclusive cultural programming.

Friday, January 9, 2026, begins with Society Jazz Night at The Bass Museum of Art, featuring “The Life & Music of Louis Armstrong” at 5:30 p.m.

The program is led by Grammy Award–winning historian Ricky Riccardi, Director of Research Collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, and includes complimentary accessible gallery tours.

Friday evening continues outdoors in Collins Park with a FREE public performance by Steven Bernstein’s Millennial Territory Orchestra.

A VIP reception with reserved seating precedes the concert. VIP tickets are $75.

Saturday, January 10, 2026 daytime programming features the Jazz for Tomorrow Student Stage, curated by educator Nicole Yarling, from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. on Lincoln Road and Euclid Avenue.

Participating organizations include the Jazz Education Community Coalition, Young Musicians Unite, and The Miami Lighthouse, along with Power Access Scholarship recipient Christopher Bedrossian. Admission is free.

The festival concludes Sunday, January 11, 2026, with “Jazz Hits the Road” on the Power Access Main Stage along Lincoln Road.

Performers include The Spirit of Goodwill Band, Lemon City Trio, The Harden Project, Federico Britos Quintet, Spam Allstars, and a finale by Gafieira Rio Miami featuring Nestor Torres.

Sunday programming is FREE.

The All-Access Pass includes VIP access to all ticketed events, premium seating, and reserved experiences throughout the festival. Passes are limited and priced at $275.

For tickets, passes, and the complete schedule, visit SoBeJazzFestival.com .

Follow the South Beach Jazz Festival:
Website | Instagram | Facebook

PLEASE VISIT

SOUTH BEACH JAZZ FEST

FOR COMPLETE FESTIVAL INFORMATION

"From Disability to Serendipity"

Power Access celebrates accessibility and inclusion by presenting the Annual South Beach Jazz Festival.  This year’s festival continues to celebrate the rich legacy of jazz while expanding the community’s perspective on individuals with unique abilities. Taking place across multiple venues in Miami Beach, the festival showcases world-renowned and emerging artists from the entire spectrum of jazz. With many events being free and outdoors, the sounds of jazz will enliven the city all weekend long, offering residents and guests of Miami Beach a time to enjoy, listen, and learn. Join in celebrating disability awareness, access, opportunity, and inclusion through the universal language of jazz.

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*SOLD OUT!* Wine and Dine and Dance 2025 Right Out the Door at the HILTON MELBOURNE with two Fabulous Bands!

*SOLD OUT!*

A New Year’s Eve Celebration of Live Music, Dining, and Dancing on Florida’s Space Coast

 

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025 | 7:30 PM – 12:30 AM

Hilton Melbourne

200 Rialto Place | Melbourne, FL 32901

MAP

HOTEL WEBSITE

EVENT PAGE

TICKETING PAGE

Melbourne Municipal Band presents the 2025 New Year’s Eve Gala & Dinner Dance, featuring the 12-piece Rock & Roll Revue conducted by Art Martin, with vocals by Tony Schillizzi and the Swingtimers Trio. The evening combines live music, dinner service, and dancing at the Hilton Melbourne.

Evening Schedule (December 31, 2025):

• 7:30 – 8:30 PM: Social Hour (begin 3-hour open bar)
• 8:30 – 9:30 PM: Dinner (choice of Chicken Piccata or Mahi with Pineapple Rum Sauce), with dinner show by the Swingtimers Trio
• 9:30 PM – 12:30 AM: Dancing with the Rock & Roll Revue
• Midnight: Champagne toast with Times Square ball drop

Hilton Overnight Option: Special room rate via the Hilton event page: ROOM BLOCK LINK

About the Melbourne Municipal Band

Now in its 60th season, the Melbourne Municipal Band (MMB) provides free community concerts and supports youth education and performance initiatives. Founded in 1965, MMB is part of the Space Coast cultural community, serving more than 21,000 attendees each year through concerts, dances, and other ensemble performances. The band’s 80-plus members and auxiliary volunteers contribute more than 30,000 hours annually through rehearsals and performances.

Upcoming MMB 2026 Events

Flashback Fever
January 11, 2026

Jazz, Lies & Alibis
January 14 & 15, 2026

Rockin' the Village
January 23, 2026

Valentine’s Vibes Dance
February 13, 2026

Love Notes – Tales of Passion
February 18 & 19, 2026

Love Notes – Tales of Passion
February 22, 2026

TV Tunes Tonight
March 4 & 5, 2026

Springtime Swing Concert
March 15, 2026

Why So Serious? A Musical Romp…
April 1 & 2, 2026

Hometown Composers
May 13, 2026

Songs for America
June 24 & 25, 2026

Summer Youth Band Concert
June 26, 2026

Rhythm & Wit
July 15 & 16, 2026

An Evening of Pops!
August 5 & 6, 2026

For full details, visit:

🌐 www.MelbourneMunicipalBand.org

📞 321-724-0555

Melbourne Area Visitor Information

~ ~ ~

Distributed by:

JazzBluesFlorida.com
(561) 313-7432 WhatsApp Text Only Please

#JazzBluesFlorida #Jazz #Blues #Clubs #Concerts #Festivals
Making the scene since 2006!

📬 Join Subscriber List
📸 Instagram | 🎥 YouTube
👍 Facebook | 🟦 BlueSky
💼 LinkedIn | 📌 Pinterest

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View Rates & Options