Event Calendar Southbend

A Duo of back & forth dueling guitar players/vocalists. The Day Drinkers keep the music and requests coming with their back and forth nonstop music and crowd interactions. The Day Drinkers will gladly hear your requests and keep the sing alongs coming! Be prepared for a fun night where anyone can be the center of attention and you might just hear your favorite song. 

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.

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.

NAWTY Lite is a trio that will rock your socks off while you dance the night away. With a continually changing setlist of over 150 songs ranging from Motown on up to current chart toppers and everything in between,  Nawty Lite can easily accommodate your night out with a Fun Energetic Vibe!  

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.  

Joe Marcinek is an experience you will never forget. That is because each show features a different lineup of musicians creating a different set of music every night. The music is equal parts Chicago Blues, New Orleans Funk, Grateful Dead Psychedelia, and Jazz Fusion! 

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

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.

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.

Performing smooth hits in an unforgettable piano performance.

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.

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Dr. Jim Harris is a man of many talents. He has been performing at a variety of local venues for over 20 years,  and has been known for both his keyboard skills and his singing.  He started as a church organist, but his musical tastes have evolved over time.  In 2005 he helped form Vyagra Falls, a  well known local rock band, then gradually evolved into solo work. He is also a board certified allergist; he has practiced at the South Bend Clinic since 1986. He continues to enjoy and play a wide range of music, but loves just playing piano the most!  He looks forward to playing all your favorite tunes.   

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.

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.

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 🙂

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.

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.

Sidestreets is a trio from the Chicagoland/NWI area playing all of your favorite covers from classic rock to today’s contemporary music.  

Famer Dan is one-man acoustic performer playing the gamut from originals to country to classic rock. He has been playing since he was in his teens and has a wide repertoire including Tom Petty, The Rolling Stones, Neil Diamond, Looking Glass, Elton John and Waylon Jennings. He loves guitars, playing music and watching the crowd get up on their feet! 

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. 

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.

Tracy Boucher and Kevin Burkett have been playing together since 2010 and are one half of the Band Scarecrowe. 

Tracy is from Logansport IN, while Kevin is from Philadelphia PA. 

Both Musicians playing a very diverse range of music to a give a Blend of several different genres. 

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. 

Acoustic Performance!

 I’ve been playing and singing for 34 years. I’m a guitar maker with 2 of my guitars hanging in the silver creek event center. (Rod Stewart and Sheryl crow) and a hat maker.  

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.

Indiana-based singer/songwriter Mandalyn has the rare kind of voice that can stir souls. Whether she is performing on her own or with her band, The Hunters, Wes Rettinger (Lead Guitar), Mo Taylor (Drums), Mike Boyle (Bass), and Jim Johnson (keys) she has mesmerized audiences with her soaring, sultry vocal abilities. It’s no surprise that her talent caught the attention of longtime drummer for BB King, Tony TC Coleman, who not only performs with her but produced her solo album, “Wrecked”. With The Hunters, Mandalyn claimed the third place winning slot at the 2024 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. And with her extraordinary talent and captivating stage presence, it did not take long for Mandalyn to spark comparisons to such greats as Beth Hart, Danielle Nicole, and Wynona Judd. Witness this exceptional musician perform and you’ll see why Rock and Blues Muse noted, “when you hear her badass vocal range…what else can you say but ‘bravo’!”

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. 

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.

CAT MAN DOG: A variety show of sorts featuring Stephan “Cat Man” Cook on Violin and vocals & Ian “Man Dog” Gill on Guitar and vocals.  

Original and cover music, tasteful harmonies, stage banter and bad jokes.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Joe Marcinek is an experience you will never forget. That is because each show features a different lineup of musicians creating a different set of music every night. The music is equal parts Chicago Blues, New Orleans Funk, Grateful Dead Psychedelia, and Jazz Fusion!