Adding smooth jazz vocal stylings to a variety of genres, Chad Thompson enjoys an interactive crowd which often finds itself singing along to covers of Garth Brooks, Zac Brown Band, Neil Diamond & Billy Joel.  Previously leading up the original country music bands The Road Home and Local Motive, he shared the stage with bands Exile, Highway 101, Ronnie McDowell & The Eli Young Band.  Now playing solo acoustic venues, Chad enjoys free-forming on keyboard and guitar, and most of all, bringing people together.

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.  

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. 

Steve Foresman and Byron Craft have performed throughout the region for almost 30 years, building a strong following and reputation for engaging live shows. Over the course of Steve’s career, he has had the opportunity to open for nationally recognized artists such as The Beach Boys, Styx, Heart, and The Doobie Brothers. He has also produced and performed in tribute shows honoring artists including The Rolling Stones and David Bowie, both of which sold out at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan. For 12 years, he also hosted the open stage at Fiddler’s Hearth in South Bend. Byron Craft honed his musical talents at Interlochen National Music Camp before continuing his studies at DePauw University, where he pursued piano, vocal performance, and technical theater. The duo performs a dynamic mix of folk, rock, and rhythm & blues spanning the 1950s to today, tailored to connect with a wide range of audiences. 

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. 

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.

J&J Acoustic is an acoustic duo featuring Jamie Warren and Jeff Spicher. Utilizing twin acoustic guitars and vocal Harmony’s that allow for a wide variety of song selections from the old school vibe of Seals & Crofts to the fresh pop of Dua lipa, J&J Acoustic offers something for every musical taste, done in an acoustic setting.

Both Jamie and Jeff have been performing separately and together regionally and locally in various acts for over twenty five years. In addition , Jamie Warren operates Warren Guitar lessons in Mishawaka Indiana and has studied at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles California.

Jeff Spicher has been a guitar instructor at Hoosier-dads music and Home-Run music in Mishawaka. he has also recorded several albums and has contributed soundtrack music for independent film director Donald Corthier.

This experience allows J&J Acoustic to draw from a wide variety of musical styles in order to keep things interesting for the audience.

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.

For 34 years TJ Martin has been a guitar maker with a phenomenal voice. From classic rock to your favorite party songs, TJ will have you dancing in your chairs. You’ve seen him perform with Blammo, Vinylized, PS Dump Your Boyfriend, and Zero, now see him live.

“Doug n Jim from Small Town”

 Doug n Jim are with the Tribute band Small Town “A John Mellencamp Experience”

When they are not on the stages performing the hits of Mellencamp, they are doing upbeat, fun acoustic shows all over the Midwest!

With over 20 years in the music industry, Doug n Jim have put together an acoustic show that will have everyone singing a long and or dancing along to their favorite hits from all genres!!

This acoustic show is an engaging fun experience for all ages!!

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.

Chris and Lou have been performing throughout the Chicagoland Area together for over twenty years. Their skillful musicianship combined with vocal harmony is the key when it comes to creating acoustic versions of classic music from the 60s and beyond. 

The duo covers all of your favorites from The Beatles to Led Zeppelin.

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

The band Gemini combines original music, interesting covers, with an easy going attitude to create serious music that makes you smile and want more! 

Tracy Boucher from Logansport IN and

Angell Morgan from Carmel IN

Play a variety of music, spanning decades. Music from the 90s through modern rock and pop country of today. Inspired by bands. Such as Matchbox 20, Oasis, The Cranberries, Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell, Luke Combs, Britney Spears. And many more

Jessica Lopez is a Chicago/NWI vocalist and pop pianist delivering a dynamic mix of contemporary pop, classic favorites, and modern top 40’s creating an elegant yet engaging atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of audiences. 

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!

Jimmy is a singer/songwriter/guitarist originally from New York who started playing guitar at age 19 and immediately fell in love with the instrument.  A self-taught musician, he began by teaching himself songs by the Beatles, Bob Dylan and acoustic music of the late 60’s and early 70’s. 

Over the almost 50 years of playing, he has played in all kinds of bands including folk, bluegrass, rock’n’roll, blues and jazz.  One of the most remarked upon aspects of his live shows is the variety of music he performs.  He is just as comfortable singing a jazz standard from the great American song book as he is singing a contemporary country or pop tune.  His set list includes songs from the late 1920’s right up to current artists like John Legend and Keith Urban. 

Jimmy has been fortunate enough to have played with several well-known musicians including Bela Fleck whom he played with in the bluegrass band Wicker’s Creek back in New York in the 1970’s.   Another Wicker’s Creek alumni, Ray Chesna, teaches Delta and country blues and performs in the Asheville area.  Ray’s 2 CDs contain several of Jimmy’s compositions.  He has 3 CDs of original music including “Baby It’s Cold Outside” which is the soundtrack to a small independent film of the same.  

He has also had a song, he co-wrote with Nashville songwriter Donna Britton, picked up by an LA film company for possible use in TV or film. 

Jimmy now lives in St. Joseph Michigan where he performs at many local venues including wineries, restaurants and casinos as well as private parties. 

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.

 

The best hits performed by Michael & Amber

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.

Tracy Boucher from Logansport IN and

Angell Morgan from Carmel IN

Play a variety of music, spanning decades. Music from the 90s through modern rock and pop country of today. Inspired by bands. Such as Matchbox 20, Oasis, The Cranberries, Luke Bryan, Cole Swindell, Luke Combs, Britney Spears. And many more.

The Rozzie and Brian Duo is a Chicago-based musical pair blending rich vocals, dynamic instrumentation, and a love for storytelling through sound. With Rozzie on guitar, keys, and vocals, and Brian on bass and vocals, they deliver a fresh, emotive take on songs you know and love. 
 
Their setlist spans artists like Tears for Fears, Fleetwood Mac, The Weeknd, David Bowie, Bill Withers, ABBA, and Elton John—bringing a mix of nostalgia and originality to every performance. 
 
Rozzie’s indie-pop roots shine through in her heartfelt delivery and lyrical style, while Brian brings a smooth, art-rock edge with layered bass lines and harmonies. Together, they create a sound that’s both intimate and powerful—perfect for fans of timeless classics reimagined with soul and creativity. 

Guitarist Marco Villarreal is based in the Chicagoland area.  Marco started playing professionally at 16.  Guitar Player magazine describes his music  as “very beguiling and beautiful.”   Marco is a sought after guitarist that has performed at the Chicago Jazz Festival, Elkhart Jazz Festival, Miles Davis Birthday celebration in San Francisco. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

Composer & piano player, Joe Probst has played piano by ear since the age of 5. From boogie, to rock, to laid-back classics, Joe’s improvisational style will set a great vibe for our visiting guests.

The 1 Adam 12 Show is Adam Cates as a solo guitar player/singer performing the great songs of classic rock, a few country tunes, and a few from today playing  fan favorites for everyone to enjoy! Adam has been playing music in venues all over the region for about the past 15 years. 

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.

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.

Buddy Pearson has been steadily playing bass for 36 of his 47 years. Hailing from a very musically supportive family. Buddy was given his first upright bass at age nine, and, in one way or another, has never looked back. In addition to playing bass nightly for others, national and local, Buddy also puts his guitar skills in a solo setting at weekly performances at several venues, with his own brand of Soul, Pop, and Jazz. Along with playing, Buddy has been teaching all levels of electric and upright bass privately for the last 20 years, currently teaching at South Bend’s The Music Village.

The best duo around.

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

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.

“Doug n Jim from Small Town”

Doug n Jim are with the Tribute band Small Town “A John Mellencamp Experience”

When they are not on the stages performing the hits of Mellencamp, they are doing upbeat, fun acoustic shows all over the Midwest!

With over 20 years in the music industry, Doug n Jim have put together an acoustic show that will have everyone singing a long and or dancing along to their favorite hits from all genres!!

This acoustic show is an engaging fun experience for all ages!!

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.

One needs to only observe Nicholas Kazonis performing for a moment to surmise that, surely, he was born with a guitar in his hand and a song in his heart. Countless musicians are blessed with the talent to make their craft look easy, but few are imbued with that innate ability to make it look as effortless as breathing. Nick is one such musician. From the agility and precision in his fingers to the seemingly boundless dexterity of his singing, the ferocity of Nick’s talent and well-honed ability are made apparent nearly instantly. However, even that undersells both the sheer volume of work and the versatility of skill sets that truly encompasses Nicholas Kazonis. 

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.

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!

J&J Acoustic is an acoustic duo featuring Jamie Warren and Jeff Spicher. Utilizing twin acoustic guitars and vocal Harmony’s that allow for a wide variety of song selections from the old school vibe of Seals & Crofts to the fresh pop of Dua lipa, J&J Acoustic offers something for every musical taste, done in an acoustic setting

Chris and Lou have been performing throughout the Chicagoland Area together for over twenty years. Their skillful musicianship combined with vocal harmony is the key when it comes to creating acoustic versions of classic music from the 60s and beyond. 

The duo covers all of your favorites from The Beatles to Led Zeppelin.

I discovered the hammered dulcimer in the 1980s, but it wasn’t until 1998 that I finally owned one, thanks to a surprise gift from my wife using our wedding money. During the first decade, the dulcimer was just one of several instruments I played, which slowed my learning progress. I managed to learn a couple of songs to share with others, but it wasn’t until 2008 that things began to change. I decided to pursue music full-time and realized the hammered dulcimer was my love and instrument of choice.

I created a YouTube channel where I shared videos of Rich Mullins songs and documented the making of my first album, “Hymns.” I performed at assisted living facilities, churches, coffeehouses, and street festivals that welcomed me. I released my first album in 2009 and before long, my weekends were filled with gigs, and my day job felt increasingly unfulfilling.
In 2010, I gained recognition by winning the U.S. National Hammered Dulcimer Championship. Just a week before the competition, I lost my job, which motivated me to focus on YouTube. I launched a weekly series called “Fan Fridays,” where I took song suggestions from my email list, learned them in a few days, recorded them live—mistakes included—and uploaded them for Friday release.
For the next six years, I traveled across the country with my family, embracing the musician’s lifestyle and exploring our beautiful nation. In 2016, my backyard video of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” went viral, leading to newfound recognition.
Now, with countless miles, stories, videos, and recordings behind me, I continue to learn, entertain, teach, and compose, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Won’t you join me in seeing what’s next?

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. 

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. 

E-Man (Emmanouel Fokianos) has been performing live as a solo guitarist/vocalist for two decades. His laid-back styling has been enjoyed in wineries and breweries in every state Lake Michigan touches. E-Man’s musical inspirations draw from Bob Dylan, Dave Matthews, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.  

Monster Bash begins with DJ H2 when the doors open at 7 p.m. Eastern and will feature live music from the band, Libido Funk Circus from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.!  $800 in prizes will be awarded to the best costumes of the night.  First place will receive a $500 Four Winds Gift Card!  A $200 Four Winds Gift Card will be awarded to second place and a $100 Four Winds Gift Card for third place!  Costumes should not have masks, face paint, weapons, or props that look like weapons.