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.

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.

My 80’s Band is Chicagoland’s 80s MTV era new wave and alternative pop/rock band, covering songs from such classic 80s hitmakers as The Cure, The Fixx, The Eurythmics, The Cars, Tears For Fears, Flock of Seagulls, Simple Minds, Billy Idol and more.

The band members’ decades of experience, solid chops and willingness to embrace technology enables them to perform songs in interesting ways which combines the classic sounds and visuals of the genre along with new twists and turns. My 80’s Band provides audiences with a musical and visual experience that goes beyond “80s cover band” nostalgia.

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.

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!  

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. 

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Wisconsin-born, Nashville-based singer/songwriter Corey Wise began his journey as an artist in 2014 playing in college bars and small-town festivals. Wise became known throughout the Midwest for his high energy performances and connection to the crowd. Corey has shared the stage with notable artists such as Chase Bryant, Muscadine Bloodline, and Claire Dunn to name a few.

Wise has a passion for telling stories through his songwriting which is a mix of traditional country with a modern flare. Corey listened to every genre growing up, from hip-hop to classic rock to traditional country, which gives him a unique style and sound not found in many artists today. Corey’s influences include Merle Haggard, Alan Jackson, and Kip Moore. “Picture a 90’s country show with a rock band feel, that’s what you can expect when we play” is how Wise explains his live show experience.

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. 

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!  

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! 

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.

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.

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.  

A proud alumna of Columbia College Chicago, with a degree in Contemporary Urban and Popular Music, Jessi epitomizes the dynamic singer. Standing as a testament to the saying “big things come in small packages” Jessi captivates audiences with her surprising powerhouse vocals. Effortlessly spanning across genres, she has become a sought-after vocalist in the corporate and wedding entertainment industry. Having honed her craft alongside some of the biggest wedding bands in Chicagoland, Jessi brings a wealth of experience to every performance.

“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. 

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

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.

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. 

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. 

 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.  

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!

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

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 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. Chris Burch is joined by veteran guitarist Chris Chapman.  Chapman adds complex and tasteful layers and leads to a diverse set list.  

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.

After more than forty years in the music business I am offering an acoustic show featuring hits from the 1960s and 70s.  Everything is a hit that way everyone can sing along. The show concentrates on real acoustic music, not just acoustic covers of electric rock songs.  I tour across the country from performing from New York to Florida and all points in between, I love my job. I believe a musician should know their music by heart, none my show is read from a iPad or notebook.  My stage presence is one of  professional integrity in looks and sound. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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! 

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

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. 

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. 

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.

“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.