Music City's Authentic Jazz Club
Serving classic New Orleans prohibition cocktails, local brews, and New Orleans cuisine.
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS
Sundays-Thursdays: 5pm-7pm $8 Wells, $8 House Wines
Mondays: 9pm-Close $8 Cuba Libres, $12 Estrella & Shot of Lunazul Blanco
TONIGHT'S SHOWS
Jody Nardone Trio
5:30pm-7:15pm, $16 in advance, $17 at the door
"Thanks to a dynamic style that can shift from the whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner, Nardone has emerged as one of Nashville's preeminent jazz pianists. His reputation is also blowing up nationwide, where he is receiving raves in Downbeat and Jazziz for his role in the Crimson Jazz Trio, a Nashville-to-L.A. combo led by former King Crimson drummer Ian Wallace and former Vital Information bassist Tim Landers."
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
Bruce Dudley Quartet feat. Vibraphonist Rusty Burge
8:00pm-10:15pm, $21 at the door
Pianist Bruce Dudley teams up with Cincinnati vibraphonist Rusty Burge, with Brian Allen on bass and Larry Aberman drums.
Percussionist and vibraphonist Rusty Burge joined the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music faculty in 1992 as a member of Percussion Group Cincinnati, with whom he has performed extensively throughout North America, Europe and Asia. Performances include the Japan World Drum Festival, Chinese International Music Festival, Taipei International Percussion Convention and the Ravinia Festival. He has recorded with the Group for the Mode, Centaur, Einstein and Ars Moderno labels. The Group has also made concerto appearances with more than twenty different symphony orchestras.
Professor Burge teaches percussion, jazz vibraphone and directs the CCM Percussion Ensemble and Steel Band and was formerly principal percussionist with the West Virginia Symphony. He received his undergraduate degree from the Eastman School of Music and a masters degree from CCM. He is an active jazz vibraphonist who has recorded for Summit, J Curve Records, Human Records and Telarc. Burge has collaborated with Ted Nash, Rich Perry, Peter Erskine, Dave Liebman, Rufus Reid, Steve Houghton, Michael Spiro and Jim Rupp. Recent performances at the 2016 and 2021 PASIC Conventions and the 2017 JEN Convention. In 2017 Burge (as a member of PGC) was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame. His latest recording What’s Next was released in 2022 and features Steve Allee and Steve Houghton.
Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz piano for over 40 years on concert stages, in clubs, and private residences throughout North and South America. He specializes in the Great American Songbook, as well as in the rich history of American jazz styles, from Ragtime and Stride to Modernism, Post Modernism, and performance of original music. In addition to his work as a solo artist, he leads a trio, quartet, and larger ensembles, with horns and/or strings, while also enlisting the award winning voice of his wife, Sandra Dudley. An active educator, Dudley has presented clinics across Canada, the United States, and in Colombia, South America. His recordings as a leader include DPSW Quartet - Live at the Cave (2019), The Solo Sessions (2012), Mostly Monk (2010), and Semblance (1997). Dudley has also performed with artists Aretha Franklin, Crystal Gayle, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Herb Ellis, Randy Brecker, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Ink Spots, and has played keyboards for over 35 touring Broadway shows, including Beautiful, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Guys and Dolls, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Legally Blonde, among others.
Bruce Dudley has published articles for Downbeat magazine and presented scholarly research at conferences in the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. His book 25 Piano Etudes in Idiomatic Styles was published in 2021 by Keuka Waters Music.
Dudley is Associate Professor of Music at Belmont University. He has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado, a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and Technology from New York University.
"Dudley’s well-schooled piano style is guided by dominant but subtle right-hand figures that galvanize one of the most cohesive trios in town." THE NASHVILLE SCENE
"Dudley, whose fluent lines jet around the keyboard, absorbing motifs into the stream, without a split second of hesitation, at any point of rhythm in the bar, are stunning to listen to…" HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD
"Dudley plays the piano with such grace and authority that he has quietly become the pianists that other pianists go to hear." HOUSTON POST
"As the leader, Dudley set the evening’s tone with a supple, rich blend of assertive melodic statements, delightful accompaniment, first-rate phrasing, counterpoint and harmonizing." Ron Wynn - ArtsNash
Percussionist and vibraphonist Rusty Burge joined the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music faculty in 1992 as a member of Percussion Group Cincinnati, with whom he has performed extensively throughout North America, Europe and Asia. Performances include the Japan World Drum Festival, Chinese International Music Festival, Taipei International Percussion Convention and the Ravinia Festival. He has recorded with the Group for the Mode, Centaur, Einstein and Ars Moderno labels. The Group has also made concerto appearances with more than twenty different symphony orchestras.
Professor Burge teaches percussion, jazz vibraphone and directs the CCM Percussion Ensemble and Steel Band and was formerly principal percussionist with the West Virginia Symphony. He received his undergraduate degree from the Eastman School of Music and a masters degree from CCM. He is an active jazz vibraphonist who has recorded for Summit, J Curve Records, Human Records and Telarc. Burge has collaborated with Ted Nash, Rich Perry, Peter Erskine, Dave Liebman, Rufus Reid, Steve Houghton, Michael Spiro and Jim Rupp. Recent performances at the 2016 and 2021 PASIC Conventions and the 2017 JEN Convention. In 2017 Burge (as a member of PGC) was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame. His latest recording What’s Next was released in 2022 and features Steve Allee and Steve Houghton.
Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz piano for over 40 years on concert stages, in clubs, and private residences throughout North and South America. He specializes in the Great American Songbook, as well as in the rich history of American jazz styles, from Ragtime and Stride to Modernism, Post Modernism, and performance of original music. In addition to his work as a solo artist, he leads a trio, quartet, and larger ensembles, with horns and/or strings, while also enlisting the award winning voice of his wife, Sandra Dudley. An active educator, Dudley has presented clinics across Canada, the United States, and in Colombia, South America. His recordings as a leader include DPSW Quartet - Live at the Cave (2019), The Solo Sessions (2012), Mostly Monk (2010), and Semblance (1997). Dudley has also performed with artists Aretha Franklin, Crystal Gayle, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Herb Ellis, Randy Brecker, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Ink Spots, and has played keyboards for over 35 touring Broadway shows, including Beautiful, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Guys and Dolls, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Legally Blonde, among others.
Bruce Dudley has published articles for Downbeat magazine and presented scholarly research at conferences in the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. His book 25 Piano Etudes in Idiomatic Styles was published in 2021 by Keuka Waters Music.
Dudley is Associate Professor of Music at Belmont University. He has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado, a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and Technology from New York University.
"Dudley’s well-schooled piano style is guided by dominant but subtle right-hand figures that galvanize one of the most cohesive trios in town." THE NASHVILLE SCENE
"Dudley, whose fluent lines jet around the keyboard, absorbing motifs into the stream, without a split second of hesitation, at any point of rhythm in the bar, are stunning to listen to…" HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD
"Dudley plays the piano with such grace and authority that he has quietly become the pianists that other pianists go to hear." HOUSTON POST
"As the leader, Dudley set the evening’s tone with a supple, rich blend of assertive melodic statements, delightful accompaniment, first-rate phrasing, counterpoint and harmonizing." Ron Wynn - ArtsNash
Daniel Kuk Trio
11:00pm-1:00am, $10 at the door
Daniel Kuk is a young, up-and-coming pianist who has lived in Nashville for most of his life. Starting at a young age, music has always been a part of his life, and having a musical family led him to his love for playing a few different instruments. But the piano was his primary passion, along with his love for composing and arranging. Daniel played extensively in school and learn from some of the great local pianists, such as Rick Jackson, Pat Coil, Lori Mecham, Jon Cowherd, etc. He has also played with musicians such as Jeff Hamilton, Dave Potter, Don Aliquo, Joel Frahm, Tamir Helndelman, etc.
Daniel's influences come from great pianists such as Bud Powell, Bill Evans and Mccoy Tyner, and he plays a varied set of styles in his music, with many of his his own compositions and arrangements. Daniel plays around Nashville at various venues, featuring different iterations of his trio/quartet.
Daniel Kuk - piano
Baily Johnstone - bass
Marlon Patton - drums
Daniel's influences come from great pianists such as Bud Powell, Bill Evans and Mccoy Tyner, and he plays a varied set of styles in his music, with many of his his own compositions and arrangements. Daniel plays around Nashville at various venues, featuring different iterations of his trio/quartet.
Daniel Kuk - piano
Baily Johnstone - bass
Marlon Patton - drums
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Jun 21
Jonathan Wires Quartet
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $15 at the door
Bassist, composer, and educator Jonathan Wires is originally from New Hampshire, and received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from the University of Memphis. In 2011, he pursued a Master's Degree in Jazz Studies from Middle Tennessee State University, which brought him to Nashville, TN. In addition to performing and composing, Jonathan has been an active educator at both Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and Nashville State Community College. Under Jeff Coffin's Ear Up label, Jonathan released his first recording entitled "Weaving" which features Jeff Coffin, Matt Endahl, and Joshua Hunt with guest appearances by Lindsey Miller, Don Aliquo, James Westfall, and Jamey Simmons.
Rudy's Jazz Jam
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $12 at the door
Rudy's hosts the official pro jazz jam. Come out and experience some of music city's best as they take the stage with Nashville's next generation of jazz performers! You will hear a variety of young, old, new and undiscovered players showing what they can do on stage. Part of the jazz tradition and what jazz embodies is the unknown and spontaneous exploration of new musical territory with new musicians sitting in live on stage; you never know who or what to expect other than the unexpected!
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
Jun 22
The Joshua Constantine Quartet
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Joshua Constantine is a tenor saxophonist from Birmingham Alabama. Joshua is a former member of the prestigious and Grammy-nominated UNT One O’Clock Lab Band®, and student of world-renowned saxophonist Brad Leali. Along with his musical success, Joshua has gained a considerable following on social media and Youtube with his cover of “Just the Two of Us” reaching over 3 Million views! Joshua is currently an active performer and professor in the Nashville music scene.
Striving to honor the history of jazz music, Joshua intends to provide Rudy’s Jazz Room with an enriching and spiritual experience by playing the works of great composers such as John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington. In his efforts to invest in the future of jazz, Joshua intends to perform his very own original compositions.
Joshua Constantine - Tenor Saxophone
Sam Smith - Bass
Michael Green - Drums
Dan La Maestra - Piano
Striving to honor the history of jazz music, Joshua intends to provide Rudy’s Jazz Room with an enriching and spiritual experience by playing the works of great composers such as John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington. In his efforts to invest in the future of jazz, Joshua intends to perform his very own original compositions.
Joshua Constantine - Tenor Saxophone
Sam Smith - Bass
Michael Green - Drums
Dan La Maestra - Piano
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
A Nashville favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene and electric night of Salsa dancing! Multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez, one of Nashville's leading percussionists, bassists and favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene, plays the sounds of salsa, bachata and percussion-driven rhythms with some of the most seasoned veterans in the Nashville Latin music scene. Giovanni Rodríguez timbales/vocals, Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (conga/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), Isoel Villarrubia (bass).
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
Jun 24
Bizz Bigsby
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $17 at the door
Join Wendell "Bizz" Bigsby for an evening of engaging stories and great songs sharing his life’s journey. Happy, sad, good times, bad times. His songs tell his story.
For Bizz, music has been a lifeline—a source of expression and strength through a childhood marked by tragedy and hardship. Born in North Nashville, Bizz was raised by his grandmother and her sisters, with his father - a successful musician who performed with legends like Little Richard — remaining a distant yet profound influence. Tragically, Bizz witnessed his mother being shot at age four, setting the stage for a tumultuous life that has included overcoming a lifelong battle with addiction, surviving cancer, and several near-death experiences. From an early age, music became his guiding light, and these struggles explain his unique style as a songwriter and performer.
The striking way in which he blends the soul and R&B legacy of North Nashville’s Jefferson Street with the story-telling traditions of country and blues creates a new sound that can best be described as "Urban Americana", drawing listeners in with its raw emotion and authenticity. Today, Bizz is an accomplished artist, entertainer, and songwriter, whose music is influenced by everyone from Sam Cooke to George Jones to James Taylor.
Bigsby is the eldest son of Nashville R&B icon Jimmy Church, who invited a young Bizz to tour with him and his band. While running lights for his dad’s show, the lead singer got sick, and his dad asked Bizz to fill in for two nights. Those two shows turned into five years, opening for such artists as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Little Richard. This experience on stage helped shape Bizz's musical career and introduced him to a life on the road, performing in front of massive crowds.
Bigsby has found his unique voice as a songwriter since overcoming his battle with cocaine and alcohol addiction twelve years ago, and his music tells the story of his journey with at times brutal honesty. And yet, ultimately, he inspires with his message of hope and faith, leaving the listener feeling positive and inspired by the possibility of redemption.
For Bizz, music has been a lifeline—a source of expression and strength through a childhood marked by tragedy and hardship. Born in North Nashville, Bizz was raised by his grandmother and her sisters, with his father - a successful musician who performed with legends like Little Richard — remaining a distant yet profound influence. Tragically, Bizz witnessed his mother being shot at age four, setting the stage for a tumultuous life that has included overcoming a lifelong battle with addiction, surviving cancer, and several near-death experiences. From an early age, music became his guiding light, and these struggles explain his unique style as a songwriter and performer.
The striking way in which he blends the soul and R&B legacy of North Nashville’s Jefferson Street with the story-telling traditions of country and blues creates a new sound that can best be described as "Urban Americana", drawing listeners in with its raw emotion and authenticity. Today, Bizz is an accomplished artist, entertainer, and songwriter, whose music is influenced by everyone from Sam Cooke to George Jones to James Taylor.
Bigsby is the eldest son of Nashville R&B icon Jimmy Church, who invited a young Bizz to tour with him and his band. While running lights for his dad’s show, the lead singer got sick, and his dad asked Bizz to fill in for two nights. Those two shows turned into five years, opening for such artists as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Little Richard. This experience on stage helped shape Bizz's musical career and introduced him to a life on the road, performing in front of massive crowds.
Bigsby has found his unique voice as a songwriter since overcoming his battle with cocaine and alcohol addiction twelve years ago, and his music tells the story of his journey with at times brutal honesty. And yet, ultimately, he inspires with his message of hope and faith, leaving the listener feeling positive and inspired by the possibility of redemption.
Dana Robbins Quintet
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
Grammy Winner saxophonist Dana Robbins pays tribute to Les McCann & Eddie Harris and other artists; the Soul Jazz Sound of the late 60’s early 70’s, bringing back a genre that hasn’t been heard in decades, as well as great music of the B3 organ/tenor sax recordings from artists such as Jimmy Smith, Shirley Scott, Jimmy McGriff, Joey DeFrancesco and Charles Earland.
Dana Robbins’ early years were spent at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Since moving to Nashville in the 80's, she has played and recorded for Delbert McClinton, Keb’ Mo and Steve Cropper and has played live with Aretha Franklin, Taj Mahal, Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Jennifer Hudson, Felix Cavaliere, and The McCrary sisters.
David Santos (bass)
Wes Little ( drums)
Phil Hughley (guitar)
Darius Mines (piano/B3)
Dana Robbins’ early years were spent at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Since moving to Nashville in the 80's, she has played and recorded for Delbert McClinton, Keb’ Mo and Steve Cropper and has played live with Aretha Franklin, Taj Mahal, Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Jennifer Hudson, Felix Cavaliere, and The McCrary sisters.
David Santos (bass)
Wes Little ( drums)
Phil Hughley (guitar)
Darius Mines (piano/B3)
Jun 25
Hot Club Happy Hour - Gypsy Jazz Thursdays
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $14 in advance, $15 at the door
Every Thursday we honor our New Orleans and French roots and Rudy’s comes alive with a variety of small groups in the style of gypsy jazz swing. We bring you music inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with "Hot Club" gypsy jazz swing. Known for fierce tempos and effortless improvisation, our Hot Club Gypsy Thursdays are sure to entertain, inspire, and bring you back to some authentic "jazz manouche" with groups either led or curated by New Orleans LA native Brook Sutton.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Imbibe French Quarter inspired cocktails or a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo and beignets, while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
There’s no better place to chill, cozy up and relax after work. Imbibe French Quarter inspired cocktails or a glass of Côtes du Rhône, and enjoy some gumbo and beignets, while listening to the rhythm and mood of hot club jazz in Nashville’s most intimate and romantic room.
Miguel Alvarado 'State of the Saxophone: Sonny Stitt'
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
Join us on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 9:00 PM for an electrifying tribute to the legendary Sonny Stitt, one of the most powerful, prolific, and influential saxophonists in jazz history. Celebrated for landmark recordings such as Saxophone Supremacy, Boss Tenors (with Gene Ammons), and his seminal work with Bud Powell and Dizzy Gillespie, Stitt helped shape modern jazz as a dual-threat titan of both the alto and tenor saxophones. His fearless improvisation, blistering technique, and timeless compositions like "The Eternal Triangle" and "Blues for Sonny" remain cornerstone achievements of the bebop and hard bop eras.
This special performance dives deep into Stitt’s vibrant musical world, honoring the boundless creativity, relentless drive, and deep blues phrasing that earned him the moniker the "Lone Wolf" of jazz. As Stitt once famously remarked on the relentless pursuit of mastery, "You've got to practice, man. You can't just pick up the horn and blow."
Curated by Miguel Alvarado, a dynamic force in contemporary jazz whose artistry has been hailed as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” by the Huffington Post, the evening channels the fearless spirit of Stitt through bold improvisation, deep swing, and inspired interpretations. The result is a thrilling celebration of jazz tradition—alive, unpredictable, and blazing with energy.
This special performance dives deep into Stitt’s vibrant musical world, honoring the boundless creativity, relentless drive, and deep blues phrasing that earned him the moniker the "Lone Wolf" of jazz. As Stitt once famously remarked on the relentless pursuit of mastery, "You've got to practice, man. You can't just pick up the horn and blow."
Curated by Miguel Alvarado, a dynamic force in contemporary jazz whose artistry has been hailed as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” by the Huffington Post, the evening channels the fearless spirit of Stitt through bold improvisation, deep swing, and inspired interpretations. The result is a thrilling celebration of jazz tradition—alive, unpredictable, and blazing with energy.
Jun 26
Vance Thompson Quintet w/ Steve Kovalcheck, Taber Gable, Tommy Sauter & Marcus Finnie
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $15 in advance, $18 at the door
Vibraphonist Vance Thompson brings his quintet featuring guitarist Steve Kovalcheck, pianist Taber Gable, bassist Tommy Sauter, and drummer Marcus Finnie to Rudy’s for an evening of music from his latest album, Lost and Found, which The Times of London heralded as “a joyous, jubilant portrait of musical rebirth,” and an “irresistible album.” Thompson enjoyed a successful career as a trumpeter for many years before a medical issue forced him to change course. Discovering the vibraphone provided a new lease on musical life.
Jack Bowers, writing for All About Jazz, had this to say: “what is most remarkable is that Thompson sounds like he has been playing the vibraphone all his life….While regret for what Thompson lost is understandable, delight in what he found is even more appropriate, especially in light of this remarkable illustration of his composure and endurance. As Sinatra once sang, there are times when things can be ‘even lovelier, the second time around.’”
Vance Thompson is the founder/music director/ arranger of the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra, a professional big band & nonprofit organization that produces dozens of concerts annually, has performed internationally, released acclaimed recordings, and collaborated with guests such as Monty Alexander, Hank Jones, Eric Reed, Michael Dease, Donald Brown, Carmen Bradford, Gregory Tardy, John Clayton, Stefon Harris and many others. Recent milestones include Thompson’s Grammy-nominated performance on trumpet (What If, Jerry Douglas Band), arranging for the 2023 Grammy-winning (Best Large Ensemble) Count Basie Orchestra album, "Basie Swings the Blues" and celebrating 25 years as a professor of jazz trumpet at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music.
Guitarist Steve Kovalcheck is a Nashville native who serves as professor of jazz guitar at the University of Colorado Greeley. He is a member of the Jeff Hamilton Trio and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Pianist Taber Gable is professor of jazz piano at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music in Knoxville. He has toured, performed and recorded with Jazzmeia Horn, Braxton Cook, Marcus and EJ Strickland and many others. Bassist Tommy Sauter hails from Memphis and is now based in Atlanta, Georgia. He has toured with Cyrus Chestnut, Jason Marsalis, Russell Malone and many others. Drummer Marcus Finnie is no stranger to Rudy’s or Nashville audiences. He has toured, performed and recorded with a wide range of top-tier artists across many genres including Kirk Whalum, Kurt Elling, Keb’ Mo’, and many others. In noting his contributions to the album Lost and Found, Paris-Move said, “It is no exaggeration to suggest that Finnie belongs among the most compelling jazz drummers of his generation.”
Jack Bowers, writing for All About Jazz, had this to say: “what is most remarkable is that Thompson sounds like he has been playing the vibraphone all his life….While regret for what Thompson lost is understandable, delight in what he found is even more appropriate, especially in light of this remarkable illustration of his composure and endurance. As Sinatra once sang, there are times when things can be ‘even lovelier, the second time around.’”
Vance Thompson is the founder/music director/ arranger of the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra, a professional big band & nonprofit organization that produces dozens of concerts annually, has performed internationally, released acclaimed recordings, and collaborated with guests such as Monty Alexander, Hank Jones, Eric Reed, Michael Dease, Donald Brown, Carmen Bradford, Gregory Tardy, John Clayton, Stefon Harris and many others. Recent milestones include Thompson’s Grammy-nominated performance on trumpet (What If, Jerry Douglas Band), arranging for the 2023 Grammy-winning (Best Large Ensemble) Count Basie Orchestra album, "Basie Swings the Blues" and celebrating 25 years as a professor of jazz trumpet at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music.
Guitarist Steve Kovalcheck is a Nashville native who serves as professor of jazz guitar at the University of Colorado Greeley. He is a member of the Jeff Hamilton Trio and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Pianist Taber Gable is professor of jazz piano at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music in Knoxville. He has toured, performed and recorded with Jazzmeia Horn, Braxton Cook, Marcus and EJ Strickland and many others. Bassist Tommy Sauter hails from Memphis and is now based in Atlanta, Georgia. He has toured with Cyrus Chestnut, Jason Marsalis, Russell Malone and many others. Drummer Marcus Finnie is no stranger to Rudy’s or Nashville audiences. He has toured, performed and recorded with a wide range of top-tier artists across many genres including Kirk Whalum, Kurt Elling, Keb’ Mo’, and many others. In noting his contributions to the album Lost and Found, Paris-Move said, “It is no exaggeration to suggest that Finnie belongs among the most compelling jazz drummers of his generation.”
Vance Thompson Quintet w/ Steve Kovalcheck, Taber Gable, Tommy Sauter & Marcus Finnie
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $23 in advance, $25 at the door
Vibraphonist Vance Thompson brings his quintet featuring guitarist Steve Kovalcheck, pianist Taber Gable, bassist Tommy Sauter, and drummer Marcus Finnie to Rudy’s for an evening of music from his latest album, Lost and Found, which The Times of London heralded as “a joyous, jubilant portrait of musical rebirth,” and an “irresistible album.” Thompson enjoyed a successful career as a trumpeter for many years before a medical issue forced him to change course. Discovering the vibraphone provided a new lease on musical life.
Jack Bowers, writing for All About Jazz, had this to say: “what is most remarkable is that Thompson sounds like he has been playing the vibraphone all his life….While regret for what Thompson lost is understandable, delight in what he found is even more appropriate, especially in light of this remarkable illustration of his composure and endurance. As Sinatra once sang, there are times when things can be ‘even lovelier, the second time around.’”
Vance Thompson is the founder/music director/ arranger of the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra, a professional big band & nonprofit organization that produces dozens of concerts annually, has performed internationally, released acclaimed recordings, and collaborated with guests such as Monty Alexander, Hank Jones, Eric Reed, Michael Dease, Donald Brown, Carmen Bradford, Gregory Tardy, John Clayton, Stefon Harris and many others. Recent milestones include Thompson’s Grammy-nominated performance on trumpet (What If, Jerry Douglas Band), arranging for the 2023 Grammy-winning (Best Large Ensemble) Count Basie Orchestra album, "Basie Swings the Blues" and celebrating 25 years as a professor of jazz trumpet at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music.
Guitarist Steve Kovalcheck is a Nashville native who serves as professor of jazz guitar at the University of Colorado Greeley. He is a member of the Jeff Hamilton Trio and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Pianist Taber Gable is professor of jazz piano at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music in Knoxville. He has toured, performed and recorded with Jazzmeia Horn, Braxton Cook, Marcus and EJ Strickland and many others. Bassist Tommy Sauter hails from Memphis and is now based in Atlanta, Georgia. He has toured with Cyrus Chestnut, Jason Marsalis, Russell Malone and many others. Drummer Marcus Finnie is no stranger to Rudy’s or Nashville audiences. He has toured, performed and recorded with a wide range of top-tier artists across many genres including Kirk Whalum, Kurt Elling, Keb’ Mo’, and many others. In noting his contributions to the album Lost and Found, Paris-Move said, “It is no exaggeration to suggest that Finnie belongs among the most compelling jazz drummers of his generation.”
Jack Bowers, writing for All About Jazz, had this to say: “what is most remarkable is that Thompson sounds like he has been playing the vibraphone all his life….While regret for what Thompson lost is understandable, delight in what he found is even more appropriate, especially in light of this remarkable illustration of his composure and endurance. As Sinatra once sang, there are times when things can be ‘even lovelier, the second time around.’”
Vance Thompson is the founder/music director/ arranger of the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra, a professional big band & nonprofit organization that produces dozens of concerts annually, has performed internationally, released acclaimed recordings, and collaborated with guests such as Monty Alexander, Hank Jones, Eric Reed, Michael Dease, Donald Brown, Carmen Bradford, Gregory Tardy, John Clayton, Stefon Harris and many others. Recent milestones include Thompson’s Grammy-nominated performance on trumpet (What If, Jerry Douglas Band), arranging for the 2023 Grammy-winning (Best Large Ensemble) Count Basie Orchestra album, "Basie Swings the Blues" and celebrating 25 years as a professor of jazz trumpet at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music.
Guitarist Steve Kovalcheck is a Nashville native who serves as professor of jazz guitar at the University of Colorado Greeley. He is a member of the Jeff Hamilton Trio and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Pianist Taber Gable is professor of jazz piano at the University of Tennessee’s College of Music in Knoxville. He has toured, performed and recorded with Jazzmeia Horn, Braxton Cook, Marcus and EJ Strickland and many others. Bassist Tommy Sauter hails from Memphis and is now based in Atlanta, Georgia. He has toured with Cyrus Chestnut, Jason Marsalis, Russell Malone and many others. Drummer Marcus Finnie is no stranger to Rudy’s or Nashville audiences. He has toured, performed and recorded with a wide range of top-tier artists across many genres including Kirk Whalum, Kurt Elling, Keb’ Mo’, and many others. In noting his contributions to the album Lost and Found, Paris-Move said, “It is no exaggeration to suggest that Finnie belongs among the most compelling jazz drummers of his generation.”
The Jason Johnson Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Nashville-native saxophonist, woodwind doubler, and composer Jason Johnson grew up immersed in the city's rich tapestry of sounds, and now he is quickly becoming one of the most promising and versatile young voices in the Nashville scene. Throughout high school, Jason studied under the incredible Nashville saxophonist Evan Cobb before continuing to his studies at Vanderbilt University, now studying jazz performance and composition under legendary Saxophonist Jeff Coffin.
Through Vanderbilt, he has had the rare privilege of brushing paths with some of the most celebrated names in jazz, including Sean Jones, Brian Blade, Ignacio Berroa, The New York Voices, Ari Hoenig, John Batiste, and many more. He has also recently been named a semi-finalist in the 2026 Yamaha Young Artists Competition.
Through Vanderbilt, he has had the rare privilege of brushing paths with some of the most celebrated names in jazz, including Sean Jones, Brian Blade, Ignacio Berroa, The New York Voices, Ari Hoenig, John Batiste, and many more. He has also recently been named a semi-finalist in the 2026 Yamaha Young Artists Competition.
Jun 27
Kevin Oliver Jr. & Alex Murphy Quartet
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $16 in advance, $18 at the door
Kevin Oliver Jr. is an Atlanta-born saxophonist and composer based in New York City. A Juilliard graduate, he has shared the stage with Jon Batiste, Delfeayo Marsalis, the Roy Hargrove Big Band, and Endea Owens and the Cookout and leads his own quartet The Kevin Oliver, Jr. Group. His debut album, OLIVER, presents original music rooted in tradition and personal storytelling. He is currently developing his second album, Love and Freedom, and continues to grow his voice as a bandleader and composer committed to the culture and future of jazz. Kevin recently completed the Giancarlo DiTrapano Arts Residency in Sezze Romano, Italy. He is a proud Boston Sax Shop Artist.
Hailing from Chicago, Alex Murphy grew up in a family of musicians with parents who emphasized musical exploration at an early age. He grew up in an area where the arts were strongly supported and he had the support to grow his passion for jazz. In high school, he had the opportunity to study under many distinguished jazz performers and educators at Birch Creek Jazz Camp and began exploring writing his own music as well as iterations of jazz greats. His passion for jazz led him into continued study at DePaul University in Chicago where he was under the tutelage of Ron Perrillo and Dana Hall. Alex was part of a very talented crop of young musicians working their way into the music scene in Chicago. Alex’s performance portfolio continues to grow. He has performed at Chicago classics including the Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Green Mill, and was featured in a master class at Symphony Center with jazz piano great Bill Charlap. He has been featured in the Chicago Jazz Festival and other area jazz festivals throughout the Midwest. Alex has had the opportunity to share the stage with artists Nicholas Payton, Dave Douglas, Bobby Broom, Mark Colenburg, Adonis Rose, Chester Thompson, Joel Frahm, Dezron Douglas, Pharezz Whitted, Mark Colby, Matt Ulery, Dennis Carroll, Roger Ingram, Gabrielle Cavassa and Joe Grandsden. From a growing studio portfolio with jazz and hip hop artists as well as his continued pursuit of live performance, Alex is excited to expand his talent into the Nashville area.
Kevin Oliver Jr. - Saxophone
Alex Murphy - Piano
Jack Aylor - Bass
Willie Barthel - Drums
Hailing from Chicago, Alex Murphy grew up in a family of musicians with parents who emphasized musical exploration at an early age. He grew up in an area where the arts were strongly supported and he had the support to grow his passion for jazz. In high school, he had the opportunity to study under many distinguished jazz performers and educators at Birch Creek Jazz Camp and began exploring writing his own music as well as iterations of jazz greats. His passion for jazz led him into continued study at DePaul University in Chicago where he was under the tutelage of Ron Perrillo and Dana Hall. Alex was part of a very talented crop of young musicians working their way into the music scene in Chicago. Alex’s performance portfolio continues to grow. He has performed at Chicago classics including the Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Green Mill, and was featured in a master class at Symphony Center with jazz piano great Bill Charlap. He has been featured in the Chicago Jazz Festival and other area jazz festivals throughout the Midwest. Alex has had the opportunity to share the stage with artists Nicholas Payton, Dave Douglas, Bobby Broom, Mark Colenburg, Adonis Rose, Chester Thompson, Joel Frahm, Dezron Douglas, Pharezz Whitted, Mark Colby, Matt Ulery, Dennis Carroll, Roger Ingram, Gabrielle Cavassa and Joe Grandsden. From a growing studio portfolio with jazz and hip hop artists as well as his continued pursuit of live performance, Alex is excited to expand his talent into the Nashville area.
Kevin Oliver Jr. - Saxophone
Alex Murphy - Piano
Jack Aylor - Bass
Willie Barthel - Drums
Don Aliquo Quartet w/ Marc Payne, Jack Aylor & Josh Cook
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $20 in advance, $21 at the door
Saxophonist Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as “smooth as silk...with an unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label.
Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew.
Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
He has played or recorded with many notable artists including Rufus Reid, Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Jim McNeely and Obed Calvaire. Don has been described as a "fluid and articulate player with a flow of always surprising ideas complete with a dexterous technique and an incredibly smooth tenor sound." His most recent cd release (The Innocence of Spring) was recorded live with pianist Michael Jefry Stevens at Hinton Hall on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University where Aliquo is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies.
Rounding out the rhythm section is pianist Marc Payne, Jack Aylor on bass & Josh Cook on drums
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label.
Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew.
Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
He has played or recorded with many notable artists including Rufus Reid, Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Jim McNeely and Obed Calvaire. Don has been described as a "fluid and articulate player with a flow of always surprising ideas complete with a dexterous technique and an incredibly smooth tenor sound." His most recent cd release (The Innocence of Spring) was recorded live with pianist Michael Jefry Stevens at Hinton Hall on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University where Aliquo is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies.
Rounding out the rhythm section is pianist Marc Payne, Jack Aylor on bass & Josh Cook on drums
The Joshua Constantine Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Joshua Constantine is a tenor saxophonist from Birmingham Alabama. Joshua is a former member of the prestigious and Grammy-nominated UNT One O’Clock Lab Band®, and student of world-renowned saxophonist Brad Leali. Along with his musical success, Joshua has gained a considerable following on social media and Youtube with his cover of “Just the Two of Us” reaching over 3 Million views! Joshua is currently an active performer and professor in the Nashville music scene.
Striving to honor the history of jazz music, Joshua intends to provide Rudy’s Jazz Room with an enriching and spiritual experience by playing the works of great composers such as John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington. In his efforts to invest in the future of jazz, Joshua intends to perform his very own original compositions.
Joshua Constantine - Tenor Saxophone
Sam Smith - Bass
Michael Green - Drums
Dan La Maestra - Piano
Striving to honor the history of jazz music, Joshua intends to provide Rudy’s Jazz Room with an enriching and spiritual experience by playing the works of great composers such as John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington. In his efforts to invest in the future of jazz, Joshua intends to perform his very own original compositions.
Joshua Constantine - Tenor Saxophone
Sam Smith - Bass
Michael Green - Drums
Dan La Maestra - Piano