Event Calendar Southbend

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.

Molly Abraham grew up playing hockey in the Detroit Area. Her love for the piano originated from listening to her father play a baby grand piano at their home. She is a self-taught vocalist and pianist.

Join the Spring Fling Party with DJ Gino J at Edgewater located on the third floor of the hotel at Four Winds South Bend on Saturday, May 17!  Doors open at 9 p.m. and the party continues until 1 a.m. Eastern.

General admission tickets are $25.  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.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

The Aftermath is an Indiana born and raised on rock and roll band that takes it to the next level. With their vocal harmonies and musical expertise they cover some of the most challenging music out there. The Aftermath set list will include songs from classic rock bands such as Rush, Deep Purple, Heart, and The Doobie Brothers, as well as newer music from artists like Maroon 5, Garbage, and Miley Cyrus and everything in between! 

Having distinguished himself as a popular crowd engaging acoustic artist, Billboard Award Michael Paterson brings his high energy, crowd engaging show to, from Bon Jovi to The Beatles and Chicago to Keith Urban. Michael will take you on a musical Journey sure to have you singing along.

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

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.

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. 

“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.

Molly Abraham grew up playing hockey in the Detroit Area. Her love for the piano originated from listening to her father play a baby grand piano at their home. She is a self-taught vocalist and pianist.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

Performing the best hits in a thrilling acoustic performance.

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.

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/.

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.