Entertainment Calendar
Don Savoie is the original blue-eyed soul rock and pop artist, music professor, dad, and all-round rocker. Don’s sound transcends generations with contagious originals and covers. Performing from Detroit to the 1980 Olympics, and everywhere in between, Don Savoie has been sharing the stage with some of the greatest musical icons throughout the genres.
Mike has played over 1,000 live shows, including opening for “Styx” and “Kansas”. Mike is known for having one of the most extensive “covers” repertoires spanning over six decades of some of the best loved classics. From Louis Armstrong to Coldplay, Johnny Cash to Pearl Jam, Mike’s energy and love of music transcends style or genre. Mike is a finely seasoned performer who delivers an unforgettable performance each and every time he takes the stage.
Bill Cessna is a Chicago based pianist paying homage to the great tradition of jazz piano- playing iconic repertoire, as well as presenting original material in the same idiom, with a mission to present memorable musical experiences for listeners of all ages and nationalities.
In 2009 Bill began his jazz piano studies on scholarship at Columbia College Chicago. After graduating he quickly became part of Chicago’s Jazz and Salsa scenes, while also working as a chorale director, educator and clinician – conducting numerous jazz/improvisation master classes in Chicago, China, Korea, Myanmar and Singapore.
Since then he has become highly in-demand both as a sideman and bandleader performing in venues and festivals such as The Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, The Green Mill, Winter’s Jazz Club, Merriman’s Playhouse, Chicago Theater, Blue Note Beijing, JC Club, Old Town School of Folk Music, Hard Rock Café, House of Blues, Grant Park, the Chicago Jazz Festival, Hyde Park Jazz Festival and more.
While still working as an in-demand sideman, Bill has also begun leading his own trio throughout the Midwest. He just recently graduated from Western Michigan University with his masters’ degree in music.
Incorporating myriad genres, including Alt-country/Americana/Roots/Rock/Memphis Soul and even Reggae, this Michigan born artist has forged a truly unique style all his own.
With eight self-produced all original CD’s under his belt, Mike Struwin proves to be a gifted and prolific songwriter. Struwin’s music has received national acclaim, with soundtrack placement in two independent features.
Kevin Fort has established himself as one of the most in demand pianists on the Chicago jazz scene. Known for his warm touch and virtuosic yet lyrical improvisations, Kevin is a champion of the straight-ahead jazz tradition while embracing modern influences. He has performed and/or recorded with artists such as Bob Brookmeyer, John Clayton, James Moody, Ira Sullivan, Slide Hampton, Phil Woods, Steve Turre, Bill Watrous, Louie Bellson, Harry Allen, George Fludas, Andy Brown, and Makaya McCraven.
Kevin was inspired to pursue a career in jazz by his father’s love of alto saxophone. Eavesdropping on jam sessions at the house and regularly listening to his dad’s classic jazz record collection helped to refine Kevin’s ear and develop his appreciation for the music.
After high school, Kevin enrolled at the DePaul University School of Music, where he graduated with highest honors, earning both his BA and MM in Jazz Studies. While there, he studied piano with Chicago jazz legend Larry Novak.
Kevin has recorded three albums as a leader. Red Gold (2014) and Perspectives (2022) proved popular with a global audience, garnering over two million streams across streaming services. All About Jazz described Kevin as “one of the young lions of the piano deserving of attention.” Chicago Jazz Magazine said that he displays “thrilling virtuosity and agile, vibrant improvisations.”
Kevin’s latest album, Twilight, releases on October 5, 2023. Accompanied by bandmates Joe Policastro and Jon Deitemyer, the group pays homage to the classic piano trio albums of the past while incorporating Kevin’s unique take on the art form.
Currently, Kevin serves as a faculty member at the Northwestern University Bienen School of Music, where he imparts his passion for jazz to the next generation of emerging artists.
Kevin Fort is a Yamaha Artist.
Tim was born and raised in SW Michigan. As a young boy he was greatly influenced by two of his uncles who played flamenco guitar. He would listen for hours as they played the old Spanish ballads from Puerto Rico. His uncle gave him a guitar at 13 years old and Tim was hooked.
From age 15 on, Tim played solo and with various rock bands. He has attended the Front Porch Music school in Valparaiso, Indiana as well as a number of classes ranging from piano and theory to vocal studies and master guitar.
Tim plays different shows from festivals, concerts, supper clubs, pubs and cafes. He is known for his 70’s & 80’s style and features the music of various artists, like: Dan Fogelberg, James Taylor, America, Poco, Eagles, Jimmy Buffet, Cat Stevens, CSNY, Van Morrison, Jim Croce, John Denver, Paul Simon, John Fogerty, etc.
The Prom Party begins with a DJ when the doors open at 7 p.m. Eastern and will feature live music from The 1985 band from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear their best 80’s prom attire.
Turn back time with The 1985, the Midwest’s raddest retro 80’s band, playing the best of rock, pop, metal, new wave, and rap of the awesome decade! More information on The 1985 band can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWVFG76Mlzk.
I began studying piano at 12 years old and studied Jazz Piano at the National School of Music in Mexico City. Gabriel has had the opportunity to play in the Mexican spectacular “10 Pianos”. He has also accompanied several famous Mexican artists as well as be their Musical director. In 2014, Gabriel played in the pit of SHREK the Musical. Since moving to South Bend in June 2015, he has played in the Elkhart Jazz Festival and has the privilege of playing the piano at the famous Tippecanoe Place as well as several Notre Dame Functions.
Frank Ruvoli is a Northwest Indiana native and has been performing live for over 10 years. His fun, upbeat, unique style has been compared to an acoustic mixture of Dave Matthews, John Mayer, and Jack Johnson. Over his career, Ruvoli has released 3 Ep’s, 3 singles, and most recently a full-length album entitled For Better or For Worse in October 2022. He has shared the stage with national acts such as: Los Lonely Boys, Clayton Anderson, and Robert Rolfe Feddersen, among others; and has performed throughout the Midwest and beyond for various events, venues, colleges and universities, and festivals.
Rob Yocom is a singer/songwriter from South Bend, IN. He began his professional music career in the late 90’s and has continued playing in various bands for the past 20 years. He has been in several original bands playing everywhere from Chicago to New York City and has supported many national acts such as Fuel, John Mellencamp, Alien Ant Farm, Avatar, Kip Winger, Royal Bliss and many more. Recently he’s played in several successful cover bands such as Stillshot and is currently the lead singer for ZERO. He has also established himself as a well-known solo artist playing regularly throughout Michiana.
Those of you who already know Matt Martino from his days in Music City are familiar with his catchy, blue-eyed soul playing style and engaging personality. For those of you who are just discovering Mr. Martino, you’ve found him at the right time. After cutting his teeth in Nashville amongst some of the best musicians in the country, Matt is now moving forward as a solo artist who can grab the attention of any crowd in any room and not let go.
Those of you who already know Matt Martino from his days in Music City are familiar with his catchy, blue-eyed soul playing style and engaging personality. For those of you who are just discovering Mr. Martino, you’ve found him at the right time. After cutting his teeth in Nashville amongst some of the best musicians in the country, Matt is now moving forward as a solo artist who can grab the attention of any crowd in any room and not let go.
Those of you who already know Matt Martino from his days in Music City are familiar with his catchy, blue-eyed soul playing style and engaging personality. For those of you who are just discovering Mr. Martino, you’ve found him at the right time. After cutting his teeth in Nashville amongst some of the best musicians in the country, Matt is now moving forward as a solo artist who can grab the attention of any crowd in any room and not let go.
The DISTANCE is a solo acoustic project that blends an eclectic mix of his own personal musical influences that range from modern rock to rock and roll’s earliest days. His crowd-pleasing performances include popular singalongs from genres throughout multiple decades including pop, rock, grunge, Motown, country, and classics.
Jon grew up in the South Bend area. Now residing in Nashville, Jon continues to write, record and perform as a soloist and with his band around the north, south and eastern US. He has been a recording artist for a label as well as releasing his own music that can be found on iTunes and Spotify. His music has also been used for nationally syndicated television and commercials.
Chris Burch is an alternative rock influenced artist who has been performing to audiences across the country. His sets are like a rock n’ roll history lesson, with selections from the 50’s to today. Using a guitar as the spill canvas for his sharp song-writing, raw vocal appeal, and bravely fresh sound, Chris delivers his songs with an intensity that sets him apart from his contemporaries.
Incorporating myriad genres, including Alt-country/Americana/Roots/Rock/Memphis Soul and even Reggae, this Michigan born artist has forged a truly unique style all his own.
With eight self-produced all original CD’s under his belt, Mike Struwin proves to be a gifted and prolific songwriter. Struwin’s music has received national acclaim, with soundtrack placement in two independent features.
Bill Cessna is a Chicago based pianist paying homage to the great tradition of jazz piano- playing iconic repertoire, as well as presenting original material in the same idiom, with a mission to present memorable musical experiences for listeners of all ages and nationalities.
In 2009 Bill began his jazz piano studies on scholarship at Columbia College
Chicago. After graduating he quickly became part of Chicago’s Jazz and Salsa scenes, while also working as a chorale director, educator and clinician – conducting numerous jazz/improvisation master classes in Chicago, China, Korea, Myanmar and Singapore.
Since then he has become highly in-demand both as a sideman and bandleader performing in venues and festivals such as The Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, The Green Mill, Winter’s Jazz Club, Merriman’s Playhouse, Chicago Theater, Blue Note Beijing, JC Club, Old Town School of Folk Music, Hard Rock Café, House of Blues, Grant Park, the Chicago Jazz Festival, Hyde Park Jazz Festival and more.
While still working as an in-demand sideman, Bill has also begun leading his own trio throughout the Midwest. He just recently graduated from Western Michigan University with his masters’ degree in music.
Donald Neale brings an unusual variety of musical influences into his solo and group performing. He has performed with many of the top latin jazz bands in the Chicago area including the Frontline Latin Jazz Ensemble, Conjunto, Sueños, Crosswind and many others. His solo piano repertoire focuses on Latin American classical music, especially the music of Villa-Lobos, Ernesto Nazareth, Astor Piazzolla, Manuel Ponce and other lesser known composers from Columbia and the Caribbean. He has made an extensive study of seminal Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona, recording a compact disc of Lecuona’s piano music entitled “Pieces of Night”. In addition his other main focus has been on early jazz piano literature, particularly the music of Fats Waller, Jelly Roll Morton, James P. Johnson and Pete Johnson, combined with a growing body of advanced original piano arrangements of songs by The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Radiohead and many others.
He has been a staple of Chicago’s society orchestra scene for 25 years now, but has also worked extensively in Chicago’s world music, jazz, blues and gospel worlds. He worked for many years as music director for the Wellspring Christian Center on Chicago’s south side and was nominated for song of the year by the Black Theater Alliance for his gospel song “Weep No More”. He also worked for fifteen years as music and choir director at the Third Unitarian Church of Chicago.
He is currently on the faculty of Columbia College Chicago where he teaches contemporary piano and keyboards.
It’s karaoke time at The C Bar South Bend. Showcase your talent or just have fun with your favorite songs just steps off the gaming floor.
Andrew Berger is the owner of ABKey Music. He has been DJing since he was in college. He is a graduate of Indiana University South Bend and is currently based out of La Porte, IN. When he’s not DJing, Andrew enjoys acting, musical theater, watching NASCAR, and playing piano. His company, ABKey Music, specializes in mobile DJing and Karaoke.
Born and raised in southern Indiana, Marta sang in church growing up, accompanied by her Mom, Joyce, the church pianist. Her family moved to Georgia when she was in high school and in college, she & her brother, Joe, formed The Porch Dawgs. She became a demo singer and female vocalist in bands around Atlanta. Upon joining the house bands at The Buckboard and Cowboys, venues for national country acts, she was discovered by Bruce Burch of EMI Music Publishing – Nashville and got signed to a songwriting and artist development contract. After moving to Nashville, songwriting, working with incredible producers, singing demos for amazing writers, and generally living the dream for several years, she and her husband, Kipp, settled down in northern Indiana. In 2011, Marta completed her first album, “Come Away”, available on iTunes and Spotify. Currently, she is available for booking in the Michiana area and is part of the Worship Ministry of Granger Community Church.
Donald Neale brings an unusual variety of musical influences into his solo and group performing. He has performed with many of the top latin jazz bands in the Chicago area including the Frontline Latin Jazz Ensemble, Conjunto, Sueños, Crosswind and many others. His solo piano repertoire focuses on Latin American classical music, especially the music of Villa-Lobos, Ernesto Nazareth, Astor Piazzolla, Manuel Ponce and other lesser known composers from Columbia and the Caribbean. He has made an extensive study of seminal Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona, recording a compact disc of Lecuona’s piano music entitled “Pieces of Night”. In addition his other main focus has been on early jazz piano literature, particularly the music of Fats Waller, Jelly Roll Morton, James P. Johnson and Pete Johnson, combined with a growing body of advanced original piano arrangements of songs by The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Radiohead and many others.
He has been a staple of Chicago’s society orchestra scene for 25 years now, but has also worked extensively in Chicago’s world music, jazz, blues and gospel worlds. He worked for many years as music director for the Wellspring Christian Center on Chicago’s south side and was nominated for song of the year by the Black Theater Alliance for his gospel song “Weep No More”. He also worked for fifteen years as music and choir director at the Third Unitarian Church of Chicago.
He is currently on the faculty of Columbia College Chicago where he teaches contemporary piano and keyboards.
Martini: A sensational duo comprised of Sallie Pierpont and TJ Martin who have embarked on a musical journey like no other. Martini has become synonymous with delivering unforgettable performances that blend the best of classic rock, modern pop, and alternative anthems.
TJ and Sallie’s shared love for iconic bands such as Fleetwood Mac, John Mayer, to the Goo Goo Dolls and other classic rock anthems is the cornerstone of Martini’s musical selection. The duo’s eclectic repertoire features a medley of chart-topping hits from the 70’s to current hits!
Both TJ and Sallie possess remarkable vocal abilities, seamlessly transitioning between lead vocals, harmonies, and enchanting duets. Their voices blend harmoniously, creating a dynamic and versatile sound that resonates with listeners of all ages. Whether they’re belting out powerful rock ballads or delicately weaving melodies together, Martini’s vocal prowess leaves an indelible impression.
Not only does Martini captivate audiences with their musical prowess, but they also possess a visually captivating aesthetic. So raise a glass to Martini and immerse yourself in a sonic journey that transcends time, genre, and expectations.
Pamela Rocha has been playing piano, singing vocals, and loving music since the 1980’s when she was just a kid. She has competed in piano competitions at a young age and has played with various musical acts throughout northwest Indiana over the past 30 years. Pamela also composes music and has also taken part in different recording projects. Along with loving performing, Pamela also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. Music is a way to communicate with others on a deeper level and that is what Pamela enjoys most about what she gets to do!
Vijay Tellis-Nayak has received accolades for his prodigious musical talents since childhood and is currently sought after as one of the top musicians in Chicago as a keyboardist, producer, composer/arranger, and engineer.
Vijay began studying classical piano at the age of 5 and by 11 had won numerous awards for his symphonic compositions. He began playing electric guitar at 13 and by 16 was performing professionally. Vijay attended Northwestern University receiving an undergraduate in Music Theory and Technology and a masters degree in Rhetoric/Mass Media.
As a keyboardist he has performed with top artists in genres ranging from jazz to pop to musical theater. Some of these include Marcus Miller, Jennifer Hudson, Chuck Berry, Billy Strings (w/Bela Fleck and Jack Pearson), Umphrey’s McGee, Randy Brecker, The Paderewski Symphony Orchestra, The Milwaukee Symphony,Wicked, The Supremes, The Lion King, Howard Levy, Joe Piscopo, Dee Alexander, Fareed Haque, Bill Dickens, Congolese Soukous legend Diblo Dibala, Frank Catalano, John Moulder, John McLean, and Grazyna Auguscik.
He has also been featured in Keyboard/EQ magazine as ”Unsigned Artist of the Month” for his work with pioneering Chicago-based fusion group Kick the Cat.
Vijay is also an owner/producer at top ranked Chicago recording studio Transient Sound. Here he has been an engineer, producer and/or studio-musician for some of the top local and national artists including Kurt Elling, Brian Blade, Los Lobos, Donny McCaslin, Miguel Zenon, Oz Noy, Naked Raygun, Howard Levy, Trio Globo, Candyrat Records, Joe Locke/John McLean, and many more.
I’ve spent several years touring the world with Billy Ray Cyrus and more recently supporting acts such as Whiskey Myers, Charlie Daniels, BlackBerry Smoke, Travis Tritt, Ashley McBride, Pricilla Block and many more. I made my Grand Ole Opry Debut in 2016 and I’ve also had 2 albums break into the top 10 on the iTunes country Charts, my self titled EP landed at #7 and my latest EP “Last Of A Dying Breed” landed at #3
I was most recently named 2023 Midwest Country Music Organizations “Band Of The Year“ and Nominated for 2023 “Male Vocalist Of The Year” and “Song Of The Year”…
From performing at the Grand Ole Opry to appearing on The TODAY Show, Pickler & Ben and Good Morning Australia to writing songs for major television outlets including tracks for Sportsman’s Channel’s “Tailgate Adventures” and the theme song for “Fishers ATV World” on the Velocity Channel and NBC sports there isn’t a stage I don’t want to step on!!
Vijay Tellis-Nayak has received accolades for his prodigious musical talents since childhood and is currently sought after as one of the top musicians in Chicago as a keyboardist, producer, composer/arranger, and engineer.
Vijay began studying classical piano at the age of 5 and by 11 had won numerous awards for his symphonic compositions. He began playing electric guitar at 13 and by 16 was performing professionally. Vijay attended Northwestern University receiving an undergraduate in Music Theory and Technology and a masters degree in Rhetoric/Mass Media.
As a keyboardist he has performed with top artists in genres ranging from jazz to pop to musical theater. Some of these include Marcus Miller, Jennifer Hudson, Chuck Berry, Billy Strings (w/Bela Fleck and Jack Pearson), Umphrey’s McGee, Randy Brecker, The Paderewski Symphony Orchestra, The Milwaukee Symphony,Wicked, The Supremes, The Lion King, Howard Levy, Joe Piscopo, Dee Alexander, Fareed Haque, Bill Dickens, Congolese Soukous legend Diblo Dibala, Frank Catalano, John Moulder, John McLean, and Grazyna Auguscik.
He has also been featured in Keyboard/EQ magazine as ”Unsigned Artist of the Month” for his work with pioneering Chicago-based fusion group Kick the Cat.
Vijay is also an owner/producer at top ranked Chicago recording studio Transient Sound. Here he has been an engineer, producer and/or studio-musician for some of the top local and national artists including Kurt Elling, Brian Blade, Los Lobos, Donny McCaslin, Miguel Zenon, Oz Noy, Naked Raygun, Howard Levy, Trio Globo, Candyrat Records, Joe Locke/John McLean, and many more.
Vijay Tellis-Nayak has received accolades for his prodigious musical talents since childhood and is currently sought after as one of the top musicians in Chicago as a keyboardist, producer, composer/arranger, and engineer.
Vijay began studying classical piano at the age of 5 and by 11 had won numerous awards for his symphonic compositions. He began playing electric guitar at 13 and by 16 was performing professionally. Vijay attended Northwestern University receiving an undergraduate in Music Theory and Technology and a masters degree in Rhetoric/Mass Media.
As a keyboardist he has performed with top artists in genres ranging from jazz to pop to musical theater. Some of these include Marcus Miller, Jennifer Hudson, Chuck Berry, Billy Strings (w/Bela Fleck and Jack Pearson), Umphrey’s McGee, Randy Brecker, The Paderewski Symphony Orchestra, The Milwaukee Symphony,Wicked, The Supremes, The Lion King, Howard Levy, Joe Piscopo, Dee Alexander, Fareed Haque, Bill Dickens, Congolese Soukous legend Diblo Dibala, Frank Catalano, John Moulder, John McLean, and Grazyna Auguscik.
He has also been featured in Keyboard/EQ magazine as ”Unsigned Artist of the Month” for his work with pioneering Chicago-based fusion group Kick the Cat.
Vijay is also an owner/producer at top ranked Chicago recording studio Transient Sound. Here he has been an engineer, producer and/or studio-musician for some of the top local and national artists including Kurt Elling, Brian Blade, Los Lobos, Donny McCaslin, Miguel Zenon, Oz Noy, Naked Raygun, Howard Levy, Trio Globo, Candyrat Records, Joe Locke/John McLean, and many more.
Michael and Amber, a sensational duo from Northwest Indiana, have graced audiences with their exciting performances for over two years. Their musical synergy and captivating stage presence transcend the moment leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witness their unique chemistry.
A multi instrumentalist with a command of vocals, keyboard, guitar, and real-time rhythmic looping Michael’s musical prowess has been honed for more than two decades. Michael also played in the internationally known band Survivor (of Eye of the Tiger fame) for a few years. Amber possesses an extraordinarily beautiful dynamic mezzo soprano voice that has resonated with audiences since the very beginning of her musical journey, at the young age of 4 where she started in a band with her Father , Mother and 2 Sisters who are also all musicians. That put her on a path for a lifelong passion of singing and performing
A professional musician for over 30 years, Angelo performs a wide variety of musical styles from a repertoire of over 1000 songs, while easily accommodating most any request, Angelo’s command of the guitar and skilled musicianship allows him to improvise intricate guitar solos and syncopated rhythms into the performance Seamlessly blending songs into one another or rearranging songs played instrumental for solo guitar, Angelo interprets the music rather than strictly imitating it, making him one of the most sought after musicians around northwest the Chicago area.
Scott and Amy Hicks are an acoustic duo from NW Indiana and have been performing in the music industry for many years. In 2023, they joined forces in both marriage and music to perform acoustic “Gen X” rock from the 80s, 90s and 00s. Their song list is ever growing and includes artists such as Natalie Merchant, Green Day, Peter Gabriel, U2, Radiohead, and Alanis Morissette. Scott and Amy enjoy performing all over the Region of NW Indiana, and can often also be found at several venues in SW Michigan and NE Illinois.
After more than forty years in the music business I am offering an acoustic show featuring hits from the 1960s and 70s. Everything is a hit that way everyone can sing along. The show concentrates on real acoustic music, not just acoustic covers of electric rock songs. I tour across the country from performing from New York to Florida and all points in between, I love my job. I believe a musician should know their music by heart, none my show is read from a iPad or notebook. My stage presence is one of professional integrity in looks and sound.
Avondale Brothers bring the party with their mix of Country & Rock music. Started by artist TJ Kelly and fellow musician Niko Eklund, the Avondale duo flourished into a small group of high school musicians that perform for any and all occasions. TJ and the boys have been entertaining audiences for years and have had the privilege to perform with some of the most famous acts in show business including Toby Keith, Eric Church and Blake Shelton to name a few. Whether you like country or rock music, we will deliver.
I began studying piano at 12 years old and studied Jazz Piano at the National School of Music in Mexico City. Gabriel has had the opportunity to play in the Mexican spectacular “10 Pianos”. He has also accompanied several famous Mexican artists as well as be their Musical director. In 2014, Gabriel played in the pit of SHREK the Musical. Since moving to South Bend in June 2015, he has played in the Elkhart Jazz Festival and has the privilege of playing the piano at the famous Tippecanoe Place as well as several Notre Dame Functions.
Darryl Buchanan toured the globe for over 20 years as a musician. While growing up in South Bend, IN, at age 17 he was discovered by the legendary Motown recording artist Jr. “Shotgun” Walker and started doing world tours in the early 1980’s. Throughout his musical career he toured with many legendary groups including, The Temptations, Grammy Award winner Richard Street, former legendary James Brown band director Trombonist Fred Wesley of the JB’s, and the Motown Revue. In 1993 while a member of the Jr. Walker’s band, Darryl had the honor to perform at President Bill Clinton’s Inaugural Ball.
Darryl has also performed on numerous TV shows including NBC’s Saturday Night Live and has performed at the world famous Apollo Theatre in Harlem, NY. Growing up in a family of talented singers and musicians, Darryl first started playing the bass and guitar at age 12. Years later Darryl also advanced his musical skills to the keyboards. Influenced by musician legends like George Benson, James Jamerson and Carlos Santana, Darryl’s explosive bass and guitar solos are always a crowd pleaser! His musical gifts and stage persona has earned him popularity with diverse crowds.
His smooth vocal style fits the legendary sounds of artist like Smokey Robinson and Al Green. Darryl Buchanan is currently producing R&B, Pop and Gospel music with various artist. On August 29, 2009 Darryl was awarded the certificate of recognition by then city of South Bend, IN, Mayor Stephen J Lueke, for his 30 years in music and his accomplishments. Darryl Buchanan also continues to perform with his talented music group “Darryl Buchanan’s Soul Motown Allstars
Kevin Fort has established himself as one of the most in demand pianists on the Chicago jazz scene. Known for his warm touch and virtuosic yet lyrical improvisations, Kevin is a champion of the straight-ahead jazz tradition while embracing modern influences. He has performed and/or recorded with artists such as Bob Brookmeyer, John Clayton, James Moody, Ira Sullivan, Slide Hampton, Phil Woods, Steve Turre, Bill Watrous, Louie Bellson, Harry Allen, George Fludas, Andy Brown, and Makaya McCraven.
Kevin was inspired to pursue a career in jazz by his father’s love of alto saxophone. Eavesdropping on jam sessions at the house and regularly listening to his dad’s classic jazz record collection helped to refine Kevin’s ear and develop his appreciation for the music.
After high school, Kevin enrolled at the DePaul University School of Music, where he graduated with highest honors, earning both his BA and MM in Jazz Studies. While there, he studied piano with Chicago jazz legend Larry Novak.
Kevin has recorded three albums as a leader. Red Gold (2014) and Perspectives (2022) proved popular with a global audience, garnering over two million streams across streaming services. All About Jazz described Kevin as “one of the young lions of the piano deserving of attention.” Chicago Jazz Magazine said that he displays “thrilling virtuosity and agile, vibrant improvisations.”
Kevin’s latest album, Twilight, releases on October 5, 2023. Accompanied by bandmates Joe Policastro and Jon Deitemyer, the group pays homage to the classic piano trio albums of the past while incorporating Kevin’s unique take on the art form.
Currently, Kevin serves as a faculty member at the Northwestern University Bienen School of Music, where he imparts his passion for jazz to the next generation of emerging artists.
Kevin Fort is a Yamaha Artist.
It’s karaoke time at The C Bar South Bend. Showcase your talent or just have fun with your favorite songs just steps off the gaming floor.
Andrew Berger is the owner of ABKey Music. He has been DJing since he was in college. He is a graduate of Indiana University South Bend and is currently based out of La Porte, IN. When he’s not DJing, Andrew enjoys acting, musical theater, watching NASCAR, and playing piano. His company, ABKey Music, specializes in mobile DJing and Karaoke.
Kevin Fort has established himself as one of the most in demand pianists on the Chicago jazz scene. Known for his warm touch and virtuosic yet lyrical improvisations, Kevin is a champion of the straight-ahead jazz tradition while embracing modern influences. He has performed and/or recorded with artists such as Bob Brookmeyer, John Clayton, James Moody, Ira Sullivan, Slide Hampton, Phil Woods, Steve Turre, Bill Watrous, Louie Bellson, Harry Allen, George Fludas, Andy Brown, and Makaya McCraven.
Kevin was inspired to pursue a career in jazz by his father’s love of alto saxophone. Eavesdropping on jam sessions at the house and regularly listening to his dad’s classic jazz record collection helped to refine Kevin’s ear and develop his appreciation for the music.
After high school, Kevin enrolled at the DePaul University School of Music, where he graduated with highest honors, earning both his BA and MM in Jazz Studies. While there, he studied piano with Chicago jazz legend Larry Novak.
Kevin has recorded three albums as a leader. Red Gold (2014) and Perspectives (2022) proved popular with a global audience, garnering over two million streams across streaming services. All About Jazz described Kevin as “one of the young lions of the piano deserving of attention.” Chicago Jazz Magazine said that he displays “thrilling virtuosity and agile, vibrant improvisations.”
Kevin’s latest album, Twilight, releases on October 5, 2023. Accompanied by bandmates Joe Policastro and Jon Deitemyer, the group pays homage to the classic piano trio albums of the past while incorporating Kevin’s unique take on the art form.
Currently, Kevin serves as a faculty member at the Northwestern University Bienen School of Music, where he imparts his passion for jazz to the next generation of emerging artists.
Kevin Fort is a Yamaha Artist.
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