The Alex Nicodemus trio returns, bringing back powerhouse James Gaiters on drums and dynamic bassist Jack Early to reunite the original tribute band. This time, the trio honors the works of Mulgrew Miller, one of the most influential pianists of our era, who combined bebop, modern language, and soul to create his own unique lexicon in the world of jazz music. In addition to celebrating Miller’s contributions, the trio will showcase original compositions by Alex Nicodemus, offering a preview of new music to come! A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

The Original Farm League Big Band is a 17-piece Jazz Orchestra dedicated to expanding the modern big band repertoire while featuring the work of local arrangers/composers. Formed in 2015, the ensemble comprises many of the Cincinnati/Dayton area's most exciting up-and-coming Jazz players and performs entirely original material. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Mandy Gaines — vocalist, Brad Myers — guitar Mandy Gaines began singing at an early age in school and church. She holds a B.A. from the College of Wooster in Speech/Arts. She has continued her studies through private vocal instruction and workshops emphasizing oral interpretation, jazz improvisation, vocal technique, theatre, and broadcasting/media studies. Brad Myers is a jazz, rock, and roots musician, composer, teacher, producer, and engineer. He plays acoustic and electric guitar, bass guitar, and mandolin and sings. A $15 food/drink minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Mark Lomax II — drums Edwin Bayard — tenor saxophone William Menefield — piano Dean Hulett — bass Experience an unforgettable evening with the Mark Lomax Quartet (MLQ). Showcasing a dynamic set of original compositions, the Quartet presents State of the Quartet, a thematic nod to Joe Henderson’s iconic State of the Tenor. Immerse yourself in powerful artistry, bold improvisation, and the forward-looking sound of one of today’s most compelling jazz ensembles. If the total amount of beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum, a $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. Photo: Bree Davis 

Joe Policastro — bass Dave Miller — guitar Mikel Avery — drums Hailed by Downbeat for its “deft analysis of choice repertoire,” and by the Chicago Reader for its “diversity of approaches to all kinds of source material,” the JOE POLICASTRO TRIO is a forward-thinking, Chicago-based jazz trio led by bassist Joe Policastro featuring guitarist Dave Miller and drummer Mikel Avery. While firmly rooted in jazz, the band’s open-minded, inclusive nature draws upon a wide array of musical styles and sources while still keeping the aesthetic of an acoustic trio intact. The band recently released its seventh album, Mending Wall. Through highly personal readings of music from Italy and Hong Kong, movie scores and symphonic themes, pop tunes, and even a cowboy song written by a Russian classical composer, the trio explores the nature of identity, boundaries, and borders. Their diverse catalog - Ceremony (2023), Sounds Unheard (2022), Nothing Here Belongs (2019), Screen Sounds (2017), POPS! (2016), and West Side Story Suite (2013) - captures the band’s progressive, forward-thinking, non-hierarchical approach whether showcasing their original music or their ability to remake unlikely songs in a characteristically raw, idiosyncratic fashion. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Paul Patterson — classical/12-string guitars Steve Schmidt — piano/keyboard Justin Dawson — bass Dan Dorff — drums/percussion A night of Paul’s original music with flavors of Brazilian jazz guitar and ambient 12-string guitar. If the total amount of beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum, a $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Jeremy Long — alto saxophone Jamie Walkenhauer — alto saxophone Brent Gallaher — tenor saxophone Dan Drees — tenor saxophone Larry Dickson — baritone saxophone Jeff Owen — trombone Clarence Pawn — trombone Brian Stevens — trombone Gary Langhorst — bass trombone Jeff Folkens — trumpet Hank Mautner — trumpet John Zappa — trumpet Kim Pensyl — trumpet Steve Schmidt — piano Mike Sharfe — bass Jim Leslie — drums Cincinnati's legendary Blue Wisp Big Band celebrates its 45th year of swingin' Big Band music at Caffe Vivace. Founded in January 1980 by drummer John Von Ohlen and trumpeter Don Johnson, the Blue Wisp Big Band got its start in and its name from the late Blue Wisp Jazz Club. Von Ohlen, a native of Indianapolis, moved to the Cincinnati area after many years on the road playing with world-class jazz orchestras, most notably those of Stan Kenton and Woody Herman. After hearing all of the fine musicians in the area, he felt there was a need to form a group because most of them “weren’t playing any jazz, which is the reason they started playing in the first place.” He felt the desire to start a “world-class big band and wanted to put it in a tavern, a beer joint.” Don Johnson, who had been on the Cincinnati scene for years, suggested which instrumentalists should play in the band. Von Ohlen states, “Don was the horn connection.” Pianist Steve Schmidt and bassist Michael Sharfe were already playing with Von Ohlen at the Blue Wisp in the Steve Schmidt Trio, Wednesday through Saturday nights, so the rhythm section was easily formed. Von Ohlen remembers approaching Paul and Marjean Wisby, the original owners of the Blue Wisp, with the idea, “Wednesday is a slow night. Why don’t we bring in a big band and blow the roof off the place? It worked real good.”Since its inception, the Blue Wisp Big Band has been the top jazz orchestra in Cincinnati. The hard bop-oriented big band started recording in 1981: first, an LP sponsored by the Cincinnati television station WKRC, and then four for the Mopro label, founded by Fred and Helen Morr, in the 1980s. The Mopro LPs were reissued in the mid -’90s on two CDs on the California label Sea Breeze, with one of the sets recorded in Los Angeles during a West Coast tour in 1984. Through the devoted and hard work of Helen Morr, the LPs were distributed around the country and Europe, garnering notice, good reviews, and airplay around the world. Among the group’s more notable members were trumpeter Tim Hagans and bassist Lynn Seaton. The band continued to perform at the Blue Wisp Jazz Club in Cincinnati on Wednesday nights until its closure in the summer of 2014. After a six-month tenure at Japp’s Annex in downtown Cincinnati, a short stint at Pirate’s Den in Westwood, and three years at the Urban Artifact in Northside, the band has a new home at Caffè Vivace in Walnut Hills. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future Blue Wisp Big Band show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Throughout their storied 43-year history, the Yellowjackets have recorded 26 albums, received 16 Grammy® nominations – won 2 – performed countless sold-out tours, and enjoyed worldwide critical acclaim and commercial success. The Yellowjackets formed in the late 1970s as the backup band for guitarist Robben Ford. They recorded their first album together in 1980. Shortly after that recording, however, Ford decided to part ways and go in a different musical direction. As a result, the modern-day Yellowjackets were formed — a trio with Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Haslip, and Ricky Lawson. Since then, and with the addition of Bob Mintzer, the Yellowjackets have gained and maintained prominence as one of jazz’s most influential and loved groups. Over the years, the band has undergone numerous lineup changes. Never failing to rise to the inevitable challenges of adjustment, the Yellowjackets - Russell Ferrante, William Kennedy, Bob Mintzer - have maintained an extraordinarily high quality of musicianship that is the rival of many but a surprise to no one who knows and appreciates the band and their music. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Lovell Bradford — piano Lovell “Skip” Bradford Jr. — bass Malcolm Charles — drums Jazz pianist Lovell Bradford brings his trio to Caffè Vivace for an inspired tribute to the legendary McCoy Tyner, celebrating the powerful harmonic language, driving rhythm, and deep spirit that defined Tyner’s legacy. Known for his strong touch, modal fluency, and commanding sense of swing, Bradford approaches this music with both reverence and personal voice—honoring the source while keeping the music alive and present. This performance will explore Tyner’s iconic compositions alongside music closely associated with his career, highlighting the bold left-hand quartal harmonies, blues-rooted intensity, and rhythmic propulsion that changed the sound of modern jazz piano. Bradford’s trio brings clarity, energy, and deep empathy to the music, making this a meaningful night for listeners familiar with Tyner’s work—and an exciting entry point for new ears. Lovell Bradford is a renowned Charlotte, NC-based jazz pianist, educator, and bandleader whose musical style seamlessly blends gospel, jazz, and R&B influences. A native of Gary, Indiana, his musical journey began in church, where his grandmother served as the pianist and his first teacher. He went on to formalize his education, studying music at Central State University in Ohio, which broadened his musical horizons. Bradford established his professional career in the Columbus, OH jazz scene before relocating to Charlotte, where he has become a respected fixture in the local music community. He is an accomplished performer, having shared the stage with jazz luminaries such as Wynton and Branford Marsalis, Slide Hampton, and Wes Anderson. In addition to performing frequently with his own quartet, he is a dedicated educator, serving as an adjunct professor of piano at Davidson College and an educator with JazzArts Charlotte. He can be heard on a number of top recordings in both the gospel and jazz traditions. A $15 food/drink minimum applies per person, per set. Tickets are non-refundable, with a one-time transfer available when requested at least 24 hours in advance. Check-in within 15 minutes of set time is required to hold seats. 

Paul Patterson — violin Brian Lovely — guitar George Cunningham — guitar Don Aren — bass Guitarist Django Reinhardt and violinist Stephane Grappelli fronted the Quintette of the Hot Club of France in and around Paris from 1934 to 1939. They constituted the first generation of European jazz musicians. The Hot Club blended backgrounds in traditional gypsy and European popular and classical music with the then-new sounds of American jazz artists like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, and Benny Goodman to create a new musical genre, now often called "gypsy jazz." The Faux Frenchmen adapt the Hot Club’s instrumentation and style in forging their own re-Americanized take on gypsy jazz. Their four CD releases, Faux Frenchmen (2007), Oblivion (2008), The Swing Shift (2010), and 3 AM Waltz (2011), bend the relationship between American and European jazz, utilizing elements of both to create a distinctive stylistic voice. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Hamilton de Holanda — mandolin Salomão Soares — piano Big Rabello —drums Hamilton de Holanda is one of Brazil’s most celebrated musicians—a global ambassador, virtuoso performer, and groundbreaking improviser. Picking up the mandolin at the age of five, he redefined the 10-string version of the instrument, transforming it into a versatile voice that bridges the worlds of jazz, choro, and beyond. The foundation of his music comes from a combination of family encouragement, formal training with a university degree in composition, and the freedom of Brasília’s choro street jams, where he grew up. A four-time Latin Grammy winner with 17 nominations—including a Grammy nod for Best Latin Jazz Album—Hamilton is a multi-award-winning musician. In Brazil, he has achieved star status, earning widespread acclaim from critics, peers, and audiences alike. Recognized for his unique approach to improvisation and electrifying stage presence, Hamilton’s influence continues to grow. In 2024 alone, he achieved 14 million streams across 180 countries and reached over 800,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. In addition to his career as a performer, Hamilton was one of the founders of the world’s first Choro School, established in Brasília in 1997. He also spearheaded a petition to Brazil’s National Congress to establish a National Day of Choro, helping to secure the genre’s cultural legacy. Hamilton’s career is defined by his ability to blend Brazilian traditions with global sounds. His collaborations include music legends such as Wynton Marsalis, Chick Corea, Milton Nascimento, Djavan, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Dave Matthews, John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin), and Hermeto Pascoal. He has performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages, including the Grand Palais in Paris, the Smithsonian in Washington, and the Jean Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, as well as at renowned music festivals such as Montreux Jazz, Newport Jazz, Montreal, Umbria Jazz, Marciac, and North Sea Jazz, among others. His performances have also marked historic moments, including the opening ceremony of the Rio 2016 Summer Games and a private concert for world leaders at the G20 Summit, where he captivated kings, presidents, and prime ministers from countries such as the USA, France, Germany, Canada, India, Brazil, and many others. His upcoming live album, recorded in the U.S. with the Hamilton de Holanda Trio, is set to be released in late March 2025. This new work adds to his extensive discography of over 40 albums, most of which were released independently. Over the years, he has also partnered with prestigious labels such as ECM and Universal, and he is currently signed to Sony Brasil. The album will feature his signature fusion of Brazilian roots and jazz improvisation, with special guest Chris Potter adding a unique dimension to the project. Hamilton’s music connects cultures, celebrates diversity, and pushes the boundaries of sound, solidifying his place as a true innovator and cultural ambassador. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

The Studio Big Band has been the home for Cincinnati’s finest musicians ever since drummer and leader Carmon DeLeone formed it back in 1967. Jazz greats like Jimmy McGary, Michael Moore, Tim Hagans, Steve Schmidt, Gordon Brisker, Lynn Seaton, Wilbert Longmire, and many more have been a part of the Studio Big Band, along with countless other Cincinnati Jazz Hall of Fame inductees. The band has performed with world-class jazz soloists like Clark Terry, Joe Williams, and Nancy Wilson. Its exceptional library of music features the compositions and arrangements of David Matthews, conductor and arranger for James Brown, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Frank Sinatra, Julian Lennon, Nina Simone, Bonnie Raitt, and Paul McCartney. Carmon DeLeone, known as “Cincinnati’s Resident Conductor” and host of his long-running popular radio program “Sunday Morning Music Hall,” has not only conducted orchestras at New York’s Carnegie Hall and all over the world, but has been a drummer on recordings with James Brown, and in concerts with Phil Woods, Jack Sheldon, “Blue” Lou Marini, Dakota Staton, and Cal Collins. He has also toured with Henry Mancini, Alan Sherman, Juliet Prowse, and the New York State Theatre of Lincoln Center. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

A new passion project for Cincinnati Jazz Guitarist and vocalist Brad Myers aka Tex Message, The Love of Country Jazz Quintet is an open marriage, of sorts, between Classic Country & Western Swing songwriting and Brazilian Rhythms and deep compositions of Antonio Carlos Jobim. Seen through the filter of jazz improvisers, these tunes are reimagined in a way which proves that timeless classic songs are not beholden to the limits of genre and a good song is a good song. Period. Hank Williams, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and more meet Antonio Carlos Jobim in Cowboy Bossa Nova: Old Country with a New Flair Featuring Matt McAlister on Drums and percussion, Aaron Jacobs on Bass, Nick Fryer on Pedal Steel Guitar, special guest Joe Macharet on Fiddle, and Brad Myers on Guitar and Vocals. Brad Myers, as a guitarist, he is known to be a musical shape shifter, of sorts, moving between gigs accompanying Mandy Gaines, swinging with the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, getting funky with Steve Schmidt’s Organ Trio and John Zappa’s Now Hear This, or deep musical conversations with Michael Sharfe and an array of Cincinnati’s best drummers in the Sanguinaria Trio. He also is part of Tinfoil Hat Cowboys: A Country Western Conspiracy, Aja: a Tribute to the Music of Steely Dan, Joe’s Truck Stop, The Hiders, and Ray’s Music Exchange. He also teaches at UC’s College Conservatory of Music and the CCM Prep Jazz Department. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Bassist George DeLancey brings a powerhouse trio to Caffè Vivace on January 30 to honor the centennial of jazz bass icon Ray Brown. Known for his rich tone and deep sense of swing, DeLancey has performed with leading voices such as Houston Person, Johnny O’Neal, and Wycliffe Gordon, and he leads a group perfectly suited to this tribute: acclaimed pianist Larry Fuller, a former member of Ray Brown’s Trio, and Chicago drum master George Fludas, whose crisp, driving time has supported legends including Monty Alexander, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, and Joey DeFrancesco. Together, the trio celebrates Brown’s enduring legacy with the joyful groove, melodic clarity, and impeccable swing that defined his music. A must-hear night for fans of straight-ahead jazz and the timeless tradition of the bass. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

“Diego Figueiredo is one of the greatest guitarists I’ve seen in my whole life”. The world needs to listen to his music. (George Benson) Diego Figueiredo is a new star of the guitar world. He is only 34, and he has release 23 Cds, 3 DVDs, and he has playing in more than 60 countries around the world. He is winner of several important competitions like Montreux Jazz Competition, VISA Prize and some others. Diego is presenting now his new concert “ From the Classical to the Jazz”. It is a fusion between Jazz, Bossa nova and Classical music. Diego has an unique interpretation, with a lot of technique, much emotion, and his show has been a great sucsses about to the audience. Diego Figueiredo was born in Franca, Brazil, in 1980, and at the age of 4, he used to strike poses carrying his small guitar. At six, he got a mandolin, which was kept in a very special place in his house. Diego played many instruments before choosing the electric guitar when he was twelve, playing in theaters and local pubs, revealing the great art of improvising and harmonizing. At 15, he conquered theaters and nightclubs in many different Brazilian states, playing solo or with renowned musicians. Besides being a guitar player, Diego is a producer, arranger, orchestrator, and multi-instrumentalist. Brazil continuously fosters new stars that impress and amaze their audiences with their joy and exceptional technique. Diego Figueiredo makes new fans every time he enters the stage, and very few others play the guitar as expressively as he does Having received awards twice at the “MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL” as one of the greatest guitarists in the world, Diego Figueiredo performs one amazing concert uniting technique and emotion in a fusion of Brazilian music and jazz. Diego Figueiredo presents the most requested show of Brazilian music. With a variety of work already released, Diego is doing shows on the most important stages around the world enchanting and charming the public wherever he goes with his unique touch. Diego has recorded and performed with big names like Gilberto Gil, João Bosco, Roberto Menescal, Toquinho, Belchior, Fafá de Belém, Angela Maria, Toninho Horta, Larry Coryell, Ken Peplowski, Lewis Nash, John Clayton, Cyrille Aimée and many others. He has performed in great places like Montreux Jazz Festival, Hong Kong Jazz Festival, Rio das Ostras Jazz Festival ( Brazil) , Oakville Jazz Festival, La Paz Festijazz, Jarasum Jazz Festival (Korea), Copenhage Jazz Festival, Douro Jazz (Portugal), Vail Jazz Party, Syracuse Jazz Festival, Aspen Jazz Series, Dizzy´s Club NY, Birdland NY, Joe´s Pub NY, Jazz Alley, Guanabara ( London), Harlem Jazz Festival ( Netherlands), Jazz Port Townsend, Django Fest, Zoellner Arts Center, Centre Stage Reston, Bourbon Street, Onda Jazz, Jazzhus Montmartre, Quasimodo ( Berlim), Zhuhai Jazz Festival (China), Vitello´s Jazz, Miami Festival, Jazz on the Platz, and hundreds more. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Caffè Vivace owner and saxophonist Brent Gallaher returns to the bandstand for a night of straight-ahead jazz rooted in the music of Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, and other composers central to the tradition. The focus stays close to the ground—strong melodies, deep time, and real interplay—played in the room it was built for. He’s joined by Spencer Merk on trombone, Chris Caporale on piano, Peter Gemus on bass, and Alex Merk on drums, a group centered on listening, swing, and collective feel. If the total amount of beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum, a $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Jeremy Long — alto saxophone Jamie Walkenhauer — alto saxophone Brent Gallaher — tenor saxophone Dan Drees — tenor saxophone Larry Dickson — baritone saxophone Jeff Owen — trombone Clarence Pawn — trombone Brian Stevens — trombone Gary Langhorst — bass trombone Jeff Folkens — trumpet Hank Mautner — trumpet John Zappa — trumpet Kim Pensyl — trumpet Steve Schmidt — piano Mike Sharfe — bass Jim Leslie — drums Cincinnati's legendary Blue Wisp Big Band celebrates its 45th year of swingin' Big Band music at Caffe Vivace. Founded in January 1980 by drummer John Von Ohlen and trumpeter Don Johnson, the Blue Wisp Big Band got its start in and its name from the late Blue Wisp Jazz Club. Von Ohlen, a native of Indianapolis, moved to the Cincinnati area after many years on the road playing with world-class jazz orchestras, most notably those of Stan Kenton and Woody Herman. After hearing all of the fine musicians in the area, he felt there was a need to form a group because most of them “weren’t playing any jazz, which is the reason they started playing in the first place.” He felt the desire to start a “world-class big band and wanted to put it in a tavern, a beer joint.” Don Johnson, who had been on the Cincinnati scene for years, suggested which instrumentalists should play in the band. Von Ohlen states, “Don was the horn connection.” Pianist Steve Schmidt and bassist Michael Sharfe were already playing with Von Ohlen at the Blue Wisp in the Steve Schmidt Trio, Wednesday through Saturday nights, so the rhythm section was easily formed. Von Ohlen remembers approaching Paul and Marjean Wisby, the original owners of the Blue Wisp, with the idea, “Wednesday is a slow night. Why don’t we bring in a big band and blow the roof off the place? It worked real good.”Since its inception, the Blue Wisp Big Band has been the top jazz orchestra in Cincinnati. The hard bop-oriented big band started recording in 1981: first, an LP sponsored by the Cincinnati television station WKRC, and then four for the Mopro label, founded by Fred and Helen Morr, in the 1980s. The Mopro LPs were reissued in the mid -’90s on two CDs on the California label Sea Breeze, with one of the sets recorded in Los Angeles during a West Coast tour in 1984. Through the devoted and hard work of Helen Morr, the LPs were distributed around the country and Europe, garnering notice, good reviews, and airplay around the world. Among the group’s more notable members were trumpeter Tim Hagans and bassist Lynn Seaton. The band continued to perform at the Blue Wisp Jazz Club in Cincinnati on Wednesday nights until its closure in the summer of 2014. After a six-month tenure at Japp’s Annex in downtown Cincinnati, a short stint at Pirate’s Den in Westwood, and three years at the Urban Artifact in Northside, the band has a new home at Caffè Vivace in Walnut Hills. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future Blue Wisp Big Band show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

It’s a February Birthday Bash! Saxophonist Craig Bailey—former member of the Ray Charles Orchestra and one of Cincinnati’s finest exports—leads an all-star band to kick off 2026 with swinging style. Joining him are Scott Belck and Eric Lechliter on trumpets, Chris Andrews on alto saxophone, Zachary Granger on trombone, Sergio Pamies on piano, Jim Anderson on bass, and Phillip Tipton on drums. With five of these cats celebrating February birthdays, expect plenty of sparks, smiles, and deep grooves as they turn Caffè Vivace into one big jazz party. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance. 

Jeff Hamilton — drums Jon Hamar — bass Tadataka Unno — piano Jeff Hamilton was born in Richmond, Indiana. He attended Indiana University and later studied with John Von Ohlen. Hamilton was influenced by Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Mel Lewis, “Philly” Joe Jones, and Shelly Manne. In 1974, he received his first major break by playing with the New Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. He then joined Lionel Hampton’s Band until 1975, when he, along with bassist John Clayton, became a member of the Monty Alexander Trio. He attained a childhood goal in 1977 when he joined Woody Herman and the Thundering Herd, with whom he made several recordings. In 1978, he was offered a position in the L.A. 4 with Ray Brown, Bud Shank, and Laurindo Almeida. He recorded 6 albums with the L.A.4. From 1983 to 1987, he performed with Ella Fitzgerald, the Count Basie Orchestra, Rosemary Clooney, and Monty Alexander. Hamilton began his association with the Ray Brown Trio in 1988 and left in March of 1995 to concentrate on his own trio. From 1990-1995, he was also a member of the Oscar Peterson Quartet w/Herb Ellis and Ray Brown. Jeff has released several trio CDs, including the most recent Catch Me If You Can, and a holiday recording, Merry and Bright. The Los Angelous Jazz Society named Hamilton and his musical partner, John Clayton, musicians of the year for 2006. Hamilton has toured with his own trio, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, and Diana Krall. The latest CHJO recording, LA Treasures, was nominated for a GRAMMY. Hamilton has been on more than 300 recordings with artists such as Ray Brown, Natalie Cole, Diana Krall, Milt Jackson, Rosemary Clooney, Barbra Streisand, Mel Torme, John Pizzarelli, Benny Carter, Lalo Schifrin, George Shearing, Dr. John, Clark Terry, Gene Harris, Toshiko Akioshi, Scott Hamilton, Harry “Sweets” Edison, Keely Smith, Bill Holman, Herb Ellis, Barney Kessel, Paul McCartney, Queen Latifah, Gladys Knight, Mark Murphy, Wilford Brimley and Scott Hamilton. He appeared in Diana Krall’s Live in Paris and Rio DVDs. He also appeared in Natalie Cole’s Great Performances PBS special, Unforgettable, and an Oscar Peterson documentary, Life In The Key Of Oscar. He is a four-time winner of Modern Drummer magazine's Readers’ Poll. In 2014, Hamilton was inducted into the Jazz Cruise Hall of Fame. Along with John and Gerald Clayton, Jeff was the 2017 Monterey Jazz Festival Artist In Residence and recipient of the 2018 Louis Armstrong award from the Sarasota Jazz Society. Jeff currently focuses on performing with The Jeff Hamilton Trio, The Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, and Akiko Tsuruga in an Organ Trio. Jon Hamar was born and raised in Kennewick, Washington, and grew up in a musical family. He began playing the string bass at the age of 11 and continued through public school, participating in the orchestra, jazz band, and the local youth symphony. Jon earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Classical Double Bass Performance from Eastern Washington University under the tutelage of Russian bassist Roma Vayspapir. While in Spokane, Hamar played in University ensembles as well as the Spokane Symphony and the Bob Curnow Big Band. Hamar continued to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he graduated with a Master’s degree in Jazz and Contemporary Media in 2001. While at Eastman, Jon studied the bass with Jeff Campbell and James VanDemark and worked closely with Harold Danko, Fred Sturm, and Clay Jenkins. Jon has performed with Ernestine Anderson, Benny Golson, Terell Stafford, Pete Christlieb, the Jeff Hamilton Trio, and the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. In 2012, Jon joined the faculty at the Centrum Jazz Workshop under Artistic Director John Clayton, and in 2015, joined the faculty at the University of Tennessee. Hamar is currently Assistant Professor of Bass at the Nathalie L. Haslam School of Music in Knoxville, Tennessee. Jon began performing with the Jeff Hamilton Trio in July of 2018 and recently toured Europe with the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Jeff Hamilton and John Clayton, featuring renowned vocalist Cecil McLaren Salvant. Tadataka Unno, born in 1980 in Tokyo, Japan, is a distinguished jazz pianist with an expressive style. He began playing the piano at the age of four and discovered jazz at the age of nine. Unno studied at Tokyo University of the Arts and was an active member of the Tokyo jazz scene. In 2008, he moved to New York and quickly earned the respect of prominent jazz figures. He became a favorite of jazz legends like Hank Jones, Frank Wess, and Jimmy Cobb. Notably, he was the first and only regular Japanese member of the Jimmy Cobb Trio and the Roy Hargrove Quintet. He has performed with John Pizzarelli, Jimmy Heath, Sadao Watanabe, Houston Person, Frank Wes, Clifton Anderson, Jazzmeia Horn, Winard Harper, Russel Malone, and other jazz greats. Tadataka was featured in the 2021 NHK Special, “This Wonderful World,” and in March 2022, he released “Get My Mojo Back” on Verve Records. It received widespread acclaim as one of Japan’s best-selling jazz albums of the year. In 2025, Jeff Hamilton invited him to join his trio. If the total amount of beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum, a $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested at least 24 hours prior to the performance's start time. 

Jeff Hamilton — drums Jon Hamar — bass Tadataka Unno — piano Jeff Hamilton was born in Richmond, Indiana. He attended Indiana University and later studied with John Von Ohlen. Hamilton was influenced by Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Mel Lewis, “Philly” Joe Jones, and Shelly Manne. In 1974, he received his first major break by playing with the New Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. He then joined Lionel Hampton’s Band until 1975, when he, along with bassist John Clayton, became a member of the Monty Alexander Trio. He attained a childhood goal in 1977 when he joined Woody Herman and the Thundering Herd, with whom he made several recordings. In 1978, he was offered a position in the L.A. 4 with Ray Brown, Bud Shank, and Laurindo Almeida. He recorded 6 albums with the L.A.4. From 1983 to 1987, he performed with Ella Fitzgerald, the Count Basie Orchestra, Rosemary Clooney, and Monty Alexander. Hamilton began his association with the Ray Brown Trio in 1988 and left in March of 1995 to concentrate on his own trio. From 1990-1995, he was also a member of the Oscar Peterson Quartet w/Herb Ellis and Ray Brown. Jeff has released several trio CDs, including the most recent Catch Me If You Can, and a holiday recording, Merry and Bright. The Los Angelous Jazz Society named Hamilton and his musical partner, John Clayton, musicians of the year for 2006. Hamilton has toured with his own trio, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, and Diana Krall. The latest CHJO recording, LA Treasures, was nominated for a GRAMMY. Hamilton has been on more than 300 recordings with artists such as Ray Brown, Natalie Cole, Diana Krall, Milt Jackson, Rosemary Clooney, Barbra Streisand, Mel Torme, John Pizzarelli, Benny Carter, Lalo Schifrin, George Shearing, Dr. John, Clark Terry, Gene Harris, Toshiko Akioshi, Scott Hamilton, Harry “Sweets” Edison, Keely Smith, Bill Holman, Herb Ellis, Barney Kessel, Paul McCartney, Queen Latifah, Gladys Knight, Mark Murphy, Wilford Brimley and Scott Hamilton. He appeared in Diana Krall’s Live in Paris and Rio DVDs. He also appeared in Natalie Cole’s Great Performances PBS special, Unforgettable, and an Oscar Peterson documentary, Life In The Key Of Oscar. He is a four-time winner of Modern Drummer magazine's Readers’ Poll. In 2014, Hamilton was inducted into the Jazz Cruise Hall of Fame. Along with John and Gerald Clayton, Jeff was the 2017 Monterey Jazz Festival Artist In Residence and recipient of the 2018 Louis Armstrong award from the Sarasota Jazz Society. Jeff currently focuses on performing with The Jeff Hamilton Trio, The Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, and Akiko Tsuruga in an Organ Trio. Jon Hamar was born and raised in Kennewick, Washington, and grew up in a musical family. He began playing the string bass at the age of 11 and continued through public school, participating in the orchestra, jazz band, and the local youth symphony. Jon earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Classical Double Bass Performance from Eastern Washington University under the tutelage of Russian bassist Roma Vayspapir. While in Spokane, Hamar played in University ensembles as well as the Spokane Symphony and the Bob Curnow Big Band. Hamar continued to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he graduated with a Master’s degree in Jazz and Contemporary Media in 2001. While at Eastman, Jon studied the bass with Jeff Campbell and James VanDemark and worked closely with Harold Danko, Fred Sturm, and Clay Jenkins. Jon has performed with Ernestine Anderson, Benny Golson, Terell Stafford, Pete Christlieb, the Jeff Hamilton Trio, and the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. In 2012, Jon joined the faculty at the Centrum Jazz Workshop under Artistic Director John Clayton, and in 2015, joined the faculty at the University of Tennessee. Hamar is currently Assistant Professor of Bass at the Nathalie L. Haslam School of Music in Knoxville, Tennessee. Jon began performing with the Jeff Hamilton Trio in July of 2018 and recently toured Europe with the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Jeff Hamilton and John Clayton, featuring renowned vocalist Cecil McLaren Salvant. Tadataka Unno, born in 1980 in Tokyo, Japan, is a distinguished jazz pianist with an expressive style. He began playing the piano at the age of four and discovered jazz at the age of nine. Unno studied at Tokyo University of the Arts and was an active member of the Tokyo jazz scene. In 2008, he moved to New York and quickly earned the respect of prominent jazz figures. He became a favorite of jazz legends like Hank Jones, Frank Wess, and Jimmy Cobb. Notably, he was the first and only regular Japanese member of the Jimmy Cobb Trio and the Roy Hargrove Quintet. He has performed with John Pizzarelli, Jimmy Heath, Sadao Watanabe, Houston Person, Frank Wes, Clifton Anderson, Jazzmeia Horn, Winard Harper, Russel Malone, and other jazz greats. Tadataka was featured in the 2021 NHK Special, “This Wonderful World,” and in March 2022, he released “Get My Mojo Back” on Verve Records. It received widespread acclaim as one of Japan’s best-selling jazz albums of the year. In 2025, Jeff Hamilton invited him to join his trio. If the total amount of beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum, a $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested at least 24 hours prior to the performance's start time. 

Come celebrate the world premier of Cincinnati’s newest jazz group, Roundtable. Roundtable is a jazz quintet focusing on the original music of its members, and attempts to combine its collective influences into one cohesive sound. The group features pianist Zachary Karp, Saxophonist Alec G Davis, Trumpeter Gabriel Pimentel, Drummer Alex Merk, and vocalist/bassist Sophia Troyer. Presenting debuts of original compositions, arrangements, and wonderful vibes, join us to hear the new sound in Cincy’s scene. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resell your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performan 

The Original Farm League Big Band is a 17-piece Jazz Orchestra dedicated to expanding the modern big band repertoire while featuring the work of local arrangers/composers. Formed in 2015, the ensemble comprises many of the Cincinnati/Dayton area's most exciting up-and-coming Jazz players and performs entirely original material. A $15 drink/food minimum is charged per person in the party, per set, if the total for beverages purchased by the party does not meet the minimum. Important Notices: If you do not check in by 15 minutes into the start of the set, we reserve the right to resale your seats with no refund. Tickets for this performance are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, a one-time transfer to a future show of equal value will be accepted. The transfer must be requested 24 hours before the start of the performance.