At The Improv Cafe’, we believe the true magic of jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz comes alive in the moment, raw and unfiltered. That’s why our airwaves are exclusively dedicated to the electrifying energy of live recordings. Every single note you hear on our station is a testament to the spontaneous brilliance and undeniable connection forged between musicians and their audience, exactly what we hope you find when you step out to experience the global tapestry of live jazz this weekend.
From intimate club settings to grand festival stages, the world is buzzing with the authentic sounds that stir the soul. Here’s a glimpse into where the vibrant pulse of live jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz can be felt across the globe, bringing to life the very essence we celebrate daily at The Improv Cafe’ – because every song played on our radio station is the live version.
New York City: The Epicenter of Improvised Brilliance
The city that never sleeps also never stops swinging. This Saturday, New York City offers a double dose of live vocal jazz and big band brilliance at the legendary Birdland Jazz Club, a venue that consistently delivers the kind of on-the-spot mastery we adore.
- Ashley Pezzotti takes the stage at Birdland Jazz Club on Saturday at 5:30 PM. Her captivating vocal jazz performance promises to deliver that unique, in-the-moment magic that only a live setting can provide. It’s the kind of spontaneous artistry that truly embodies why The Improv Cafe’ exclusively features live vocal jazz.
- Following at 7:00 PM at the Birdland Theater, The Anderson Brothers will transport you back to the golden age with their incredible tribute, “The Anderson Brothers Play Artie Shaw.” Imagine the thrilling, intricate arrangements and the powerful sound of a live big band, recreating the iconic sounds of swing. This is the very essence of live big band and swing that you’ll hear on our station – vibrant, immediate, and utterly captivating.
- Beyond Birdland, the BrownstoneJAZZ FEST CONCERT SERIES continues through Saturday, offering multiple opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of live jazz. From the improvisational solos to the collective groove, these performances are exactly why The Improv Cafe’ plays nothing but live jazz.
New England’s Live Rhythm
Heading north, the spirit of live performance echoes through New Hampshire.
- In Portsmouth, at Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club, the incomparable Elew performs live on Saturday at 7:30 PM. Known for his electrifying blend of jazz and classical influences, seeing Elew live is an experience. For those who can’t be there in person, a livestream option ensures you can still tap into that live energy – a wonderful way to connect with the spontaneity that drives our live-only programming at The Improv Cafe’.
New Jersey’s Vocal Jazz Jewel
Closer to home, New Jersey plays host to a titan of vocal jazz.
- In Red Bank, the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre welcomes the iconic Diana Krall for a live performance on Saturday at 8:00 PM. Her sultry voice and masterful piano work, delivered live on stage, exemplify the sophisticated vocal jazz that graces The Improv Cafe’ airwaves. We seek out these kinds of live performances, knowing they capture the true artistry and nuance that can only be found when an artist connects directly with their audience.
Festivals of Live Sound: From Pennsylvania to California
The summer festival season is a prime opportunity to witness jazz, big band, and swing in their most expansive and vibrant live forms.
- Mark your calendars for the Scranton Jazz Festival in Scranton, Pennsylvania, running from August 1st to 3rd. This incredible event boasts over 80 musicians across more than 20 venues, creating an unparalleled atmosphere for experiencing every facet of live jazz, big band, and swing. It’s a testament to the thriving live music scene, offering a veritable feast of performances that would make any live jazz enthusiast’s heart sing – and exactly the kind of energy we strive to capture when we broadcast only live versions of these timeless genres.
- Out on the West Coast, the City Center Bishop Ranch Smooth Jazz Series in San Ramon, California, offers Saturday evening performances throughout July. Featuring luminaries like Jonathan Butler, Brian Simpson & Jackieem Joyner, and Rick Braun, these live concerts showcase the smooth yet undeniably spontaneous side of contemporary jazz. The thrill of hearing these artists perform their hits and improvise in the moment is precisely why The Improv Cafe’ commits to playing only live versions.
In Pennsauken, the Koran Agan Trio will be playing at St. Mazie Bar and Supper Club on Saturday evening, July 5th, at 7:30 PM. Also at St. Mazie’s, the Julian Smith Trio will be performing on Friday. In Philadelphia, South Jazz Kitchen is featuring Glenn Bryan & Friends with shows on Saturday and Sunday, July 5th and 6th, with varying showtimes. Additionally, Chris’ Jazz Cafe has events with featured artists like Chuck Redd & Tony Miceli (Steve Weiss Mallet Festival), and others Chris’ Jazz Cafe.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Pennsauken:
- Koran Agan Trio: Saturday, July 5th, 7:30 PM at St. Mazie Bar and Supper Club
- Jazz with Julian Smith Trio: Friday, July 4th, at St. Mazie Bar and Supper Club
- Belle Hampton Presents: The July Tapes: Friday, July 4th, 5:30 PM at 538 Hart St
- Secret Parlor Jazz: Home-Cooked Tunes & BBQ Dinner: Sunday, July 6th, 2:00 PM, location revealed in confirmation email
Philadelphia:
- Glenn Bryan & Friends: Saturday, July 5th & Sunday, July 6th, varying showtimes at South Jazz Kitchen
- GOOD VIBES featuring Chuck Redd & Tony Miceli (Steve Weiss Mallet Festival): Chris’ Jazz Cafe
- Various artists at Chris’ Jazz Cafe: Check Chris’ Jazz Cafe for specific showtimes and featured artists
- Events | South Jazz Kitchen in Philadelphia, PAEVERETTE HARP | THURS JULY 3 | PRESENTED BY UNSCRIPTED JAZZ | 6:30PM & 9:00PM. GLENN BRYAN & FRIENDS | SAT JULY 5 & SUN JULY 6 | S…
South Jazz Kitchen
- All Events – Chris’ Jazz CafeGOOD VIBES featuring Chuck Redd & Tony Miceli (Steve Weiss Mallet Festival) … Dinner & Show fees include server gratuities.
Chris’ Jazz Cafe
- Jazz Events & Tickets in Pennsauken, NJ – Music – EventbriteThis weekend * Koran Agan Trio. Sat, Jul 5 • 7:30 PM. St Mazie Bar and Supper Club. From $17.85. Save this event: Koran Agan Trio…
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Tune In for the Live Experience
Whether you’re planning to attend one of these incredible performances or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the authentic sounds of jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz, remember that the magic is in the moment. At The Improv Cafe’, we are your dedicated source for that magic, because every single song played on our radio station is the live version. Tune in and feel the energy, anytime, anywhere.