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.

Kara Kesselring and Patrick Williams are a dynamic music duo, known for their mesmerizing fusion of jazz and pop music. With Kara on the piano and vocals, and Patrick on the bass, their harmonious collaboration creates a truly unique and captivating sound. 
 
Kara Kesselring is a talented pianist and vocalist hailing from a small town in the heart of jazz, New Orleans. Growing up surrounded by the rich musical heritage of the city, Kara’s passion for music was ignited at a young age. She honed her skills in classical piano and jazz, developing a distinct style that seamlessly blends the two genres. Kara’s soulful and velvety vocals bring a depth and emotion to their performances that truly captivate audiences. 
 
Patrick Williams is a highly skilled bassist with a deep-rooted love for jazz and pop music. Originally from Chicago, he was drawn to the vibrant jazz scene and quickly established himself as a sought-after bassist. Patrick’s melodic bass lines and rhythmic grooves provide the solid foundation upon which Kara’s piano and vocals soar. 
 
Together, Kara and Patrick create a musical experience that is both sophisticated and accessible. Their performances are a seamless blend of jazz standards, reimagined pop hits, and original compositions. Their unique arrangements breathe new life into familiar tunes, infusing them with their own creative flair. 
 
Their chemistry on stage is undeniable, as they effortlessly feed off each other’s energy. Kara’s expressive piano playing and heartfelt vocals are beautifully complemented by Patrick’s virtuosic bass lines, resulting in a sound that is both intimate and expansive. 
 
Kara Kesselring and Patrick Williams are not just musicians, but storytellers. Through their music, they take listeners on a journey, evoking a wide range of emotions and creating lasting memories. Whether performing in intimate jazz clubs or on large stages, their performances are always a true celebration of the power and beauty of music. 
 
With their undeniable talent and passion for their craft, Kara Kesselring and Patrick Williams are carving their own path in the world of jazz and pop music. Their unique blend of styles and their ability to connect with audiences on a deep level make them a duo to watch out for.

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.

Performing with many of the jazz greats like Kenny Wheeler and Terry Lynne Carrington, this is a jazz pianist performance you won’t want to miss. 

Jack Cunningham is a singer/songwriter from NW Indiana. Jack has made a name for himself in the area with his strong, passionate voice and his diverse, popular setlist. Jack can be seen performing all over NW Indiana and SW Michigan, playing 100+ shows a year. 

Mike DeHays is Imphormal, playing electric cello covers of pop and classic rock hits and more.

“PieHole” originated in 2016 as a cover band for songs that you know, delivered with energy & attitude, just as you like it! The band’s motto has always been “now for something completely different!“ PieHole is comprised of three local area seasoned musicians. 

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.

Join the Kickoff Of Summer Soirée with DJ Gino J at Edgewater located on the third floor of the hotel at Four Winds South Bend on Saturday, June 21!  Doors open at 9 p.m. and the party continues until 1 a.m. Eastern.  General admission tickets are $15 in advance.  Tickets can also be purchased for $25 at the box office located on the first floor on the night of the event.  Guests can also purchase a VIP table with soft seating as an upgrade on the night of the event, based on availability.

“The Godfather” DJ Gino J is a lifetime South Bend resident.  He started DJing at age seven and launched a promotion company in 1992 to bring concerts to the Midwest.  He then started a one-hour radio show in 2002 that expanded to seven days a week in 2003 on various stations.  Gino is currently featured on The NEW Mix102.3, Michiana’s home for R&B and old school, where he is committed to making history in South Bend.

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.

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.

I have been playing live music for over 30 years and have been a member of some popular local cover bands including, Phil Hornet, Piehole and I am currently the rhythm guitarist / singer for Dixie Way South. My solo acoustic show covers a wide array of music by artist from a lot of different genres, from rock and alternative rock to country, country rock and Americana.  

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

Chad Clifford is not new to the stage. You can find him performing currently with The Crawpuppies or giving a thrilling acoustic performance. Chad has perfected over 500 songs, so it will definitely be a night to remember filled with the greatest hits. 

Performing smooth hits in an unforgettable piano performance.

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. 

After his groundbreaking win on Last Comic Standing in 2006, Josh Blue has risen through the ranks to become a well-established headliner at venues throughout the world.  In 2018, Josh crushed his set on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.  In the same year, he was honored with a performance at the William H. Macy Gala at the prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, Canada.  He wrapped up 2018 by recording his fifth hour special, Broccoli, at his home club, Comedy Works in Denver, Colorado.  In 2021, following his 3rd place finish on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Josh Blue hit the road with his As NOT Seen on TV Tour.  Josh does over 200 shows a year, continuing to spread laughter and break down stereotypes of people with disabilities.  His stand-up routine is in a constant state of evolution and his off-the-cuff improvisational skills guarantee that no two shows are alike.

Josh represented the United States in 8 countries as a member of the U.S. Paralympic Soccer Team.  Josh jokes that he and his team were thoroughly disgraced in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, Greece by not scoring a single goal.  He is a single father living in Denver with his son and daughter.

More information on Josh Blue can be found at https://www.joshblue.com/.

Mike DeHays is Imphormal, playing electric cello covers of pop and classic rock hits and more.

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.

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.

Jason Curtis is a Northern Indiana acoustic guitarist and singer transplanted from Panama City, Florida. Jason’s southern roots center on the emerging country music genre performing cover songs from; 

Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, Zach Bryan as well as all of your favorites like Kenny Chesney, Lee Brice, Garth Brooks and many more. You may catch an original song from Jason on the right night, or he might just introduce you to an original song from the vibrant Key West Singer-songwriter scene where he likes to hang out.

Requests are always welcome and a good sing along is for sure in store if you’re ready 🙂

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.

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.

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!

Damon Williams, the legendary comedian, actor, writer, and producer, is a native of Chicago who has become a household name in the entertainment industry for over 30 years.  Williams’ journey to stardom began as a young entrepreneur, owning a Subway sandwich shop in the early ’90s.  However, he caught the comedy bug, and since then, he hasn’t looked back.

Over the years, Williams has worked with some of the most iconic stars in show business, too many to mention. He has performed stand-up comedy on several networks, including numerous television appearances.  Williams’ reputation as a highly sought-after comedian led to him earning the opening spot on the legendary Kings of Comedy Tour and touring the U.S. on the Royal Comedy Tour.

For eight years, Williams sat in The Funny Chair on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, contributing his unique sense of humor to the program.  In addition, Williams recently executive produced and hosted his own eight-episode series, Laugh Tonight with Damon Williams, which is now streaming on UrbanflixTV and TUBI.

You can catch Damon each Wednesday on the nationally syndicated DL Hughley Radio Show “That’s What I Think with Damon Williams.”

Williams has also ventured into acting, with memorable cameo roles and even a leading man role in the film Heaven on Seven, which is now streaming on TUBI and other platforms.  His humor is not only highly sought after as a performer but also as a writer and on-air contributor to the SHERRI.

Stream Damon’s hit NETFLIX Special All The Queen’s Men presented by Sommore.  Currently, Williams is on the road where he continues to make audiences laugh across the country.  Damon Williams is a true comedy OG, and his talent has made him one of the most respected comedians in the industry.  Fans can find more information on Damon Williams at www.DamonWilliamsComedy.com.

Gary “G-Thang” Johnson burst onto the comedy and acting scene in 1994 from St. Louis Missouri.  He started his stand up career in The Funny Bones Comedy Club, where he fine tuned his delivery.

Gary has featured for some of the biggest names in comedy today like Mike Epps, Cedric The Entertainer, Steve Harvey, DL Hughley, and Chris Rock.  Gary is also a skilled, accomplished, actor and host with credits starring in BET’s “The Game,” “Girlfriends,” “Half & Half,” and “All of Us;” FOX’s “The Shield;” MTV’s “Punk’d with Ashton Kutcher;” ABC’s “In Case of Emergency,” “Uncle Buck,” “Blackish;” Showtime’s “Mike Epps Presents,” “The Arsenio Hall Show,” and many more.

Gary has also starred in the Broadway play “It’s Cheaper to Keep her” with Ms. Vivica Fox and Brian McKnight, and he has also co-hosted The NAACP Image Awards and The Soul Train Music Award Shows.  In addition, Gary has completed a 13- Episode Series called “Grown Folks” created by Bentley Kyle Evans and Trenten Gumbs.  Fans can find more information about Gary “G-Thang” Johnson on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/garygthangjohnson/?hl=en.

Taneshia “Just Nesh” Rice is a quickly rising standup comedian from Chicago; her boundless energy and easily relatable nature make her a hit for audiences across the country.  Nesh’s first big break came in 2016 when she was selected to be a part of the first season of Comedy Central’s Kevin Hart Presents: Hart of the City where her set was so well received that Hart and Comedy Central quickly offered her own half-hour special, The Next Level.  In 2018 Nesh appeared in Russell Simmons’ HBO standup showcase All Def Comedy, alongside comedy heavyweights DeRay Davis, Deon Cole, and more.  Just Nesh made her TruTV debut in 2019 on LaffMob Lafftracks.  Nesh can also be seen on Showtime’s Monique & Friends Comedy special.  Fans can find more information about Just Nesh on her YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@TheJustnesh.

With a career spanning over 26 years, Nick Swardson has cemented his status as a comedy legend.  From his memorable collaborations with Adam Sandler to his scene-stealing role as Terry in “Reno 911,” and his unforgettable performances in cult classics like “Grandma’s Boy” and “Bucky Larson,” Swardson’s comedic prowess knows no bounds.  Not to mention his own comedic creations, including Comedy Central’s “Pretend Time” and “Typical Rick.”

As he gears up for his sixth stand-up special, audiences can expect nothing short of an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, surprises, and perhaps a few unexpected smells along the way.  Nick Swardson’s unique brand of comedy transcends the ordinary, offering audiences an escape into a world where hilarity reigns supreme.  Join Nick, America’s Sweetheart, as he tackles the hard issues of diarrhea, edibles and Norm MacDonald.

More information on Nick Swardson can be found at https://www.instagram.com/realnickswardson/?hl=en.

Duncan Trussell is a comedian and the co-creator of the critically acclaimed animated series “The Midnight Gospel” on Netflix, which used conversations from his podcast The Duncan Trussell Family Hour as the dialogue.  He is currently the voice of Hippocampus on the FOX animated series KRAPOPOLIS, and you’ve probably seen him on one of his many appearances on the JOE ROGAN EXPERIENCE, Comedy Central’s Drunk History, the Your Mom’s House podcast or Comedy Central’s “This isn’t happening.”  He’s also appeared on the Lex Friedman podcast.

More information on Duncan Trussell can be found at https://www.duncantrussell.com/.