Official CD Release: “Full Circle - Steve Allee Big Band".
Join the incredible Steve Allee Big Band for the Full Circle album release party featuring special guests Frank Glover (clarinet) and Erin Benedict (vocals)!
CD Release Party: “Full Circle - Steve Allee Big Band" - The Jazz Kitchen
7P Show | Doors @ 5P
9:30P Show | Doors @ 9P
Join the incredible Steve Allee Big Band for the Full Circle album release party featuring special guests Frank Glover (clarinet) and Erin Benedict (vocals)!
This exciting event celebrates the vibrant jazz heritage of Indianapolis and honors the mentors who shaped generations of musicians. The evening will also featuring the world premiere of the Naptown Suite, a three-movement tribute to the city's musical legacy.
JazzIn Columbus # 3 - Steve Allee and the Magic Hour Band
LIVE MUSIC DOWNTOWN
The JazzIN Columbus free concert series returns for summer 2025!
August 14: Steve Allee and the Magic Hour Band
Combining his love for everything from traditional bebop to funk and R&B, Steve Allee fills The Magic Hour with a wistful yet savvy, lighthearted yet meaningful sense of groove and melody.
Other dates in the JazzIN Columbus Series:
• June 12: Rob Dixon and Triology
• July 10: The Kenny Phelps Quartet
• September 18: Pavel and Direct Contact
Concerts are free and open to the public. Shows will be take place Thursday evenings, 6:00–7:30 pm on 4th Street between Washington and Franklin.
The JazzIN Columbus series is sponsored in partnership with the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation, Office of Downtown Development, Columbus Area Visitors Center, Columbus Museum of Art & Design, and Columbus Indiana Philharmonic.
Jazz At The Center # 3 - Pavel & Direct Contact presents A Celebration of Colors & Cultures
A collection of Indy Latin All-Stars convene for a special night celebrating amazing tropical sounds and grooves. This will be a high-energy trip throughout the Caribbean, led by pianist Pavel Polanco-Safadit and backed up by his working band Direct Contact.
Kenny Garrett - Indy Jazz Fest
One of the most important alto saxophonists of his era, Kenny Garrett’s explosive live performances are grounded in post-bop mastery, spiritual depth, and global influence. A former member of Miles Davis’s band, his decades-spanning solo work is both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.
Kenny Garrett - Indy Jazz Fest
One of the most important alto saxophonists of his era, Kenny Garrett’s explosive live performances are grounded in post-bop mastery, spiritual depth, and global influence. A former member of Miles Davis’s band, his decades-spanning solo work is both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.
Charlie & the Tropicales featuring Mireya Ramos - Indy Jazz Fest
This electrifying collaboration brings together the Latin heat of Charlie & The Tropicales with the GRAMMY-winning vocalist and violinist Mireya Ramos (Flor de Toloache). Expect a high-energy celebration of Afro-Caribbean rhythms, salsa, and Latin soul that will turn the night into a tropical block party.
Sam Fribush Organ Jam - Indy Jazz Fest
Sam brings an electrifying energy to the Hammond B3, blending old soul and youthful spirit. Known for his heartfelt groove and inventive flow, Fribush leads this dynamic organ jam joined by Rob Dixon and Richard “Sleepy” Floyd—uniting Indy’s finest for a night of soulful improvisation, rich textures, and unstoppable rhythm.
"Naptown Block Party Presented by Van Riper - Woodard Family Foundation" - Indy Jazz Fest
A celebration of Indy’s rich jazz legacy, Naptown Sound brings together an all-star lineup of Indiana’s top musicians. This electrifying collective delivers a hometown mix of groove, grit, and soul—bridging tradition with fresh energy. It’s the sound of Indianapolis, bold and proud.
"Jazz Meets Samba: An Afro Brazilian Journey featuring Magary Lord, Juliana Ribeiro, and Lasana Kazembe Presented by IU Africana Studies" - Indy Jazz Fest
IU Africana Studies presents an exciting evening exploring intersections of sound, celebrating the Afro-Brazilian roots of samba with electrifying musicians Juliana Ribeiro and Magary Lord, accompanied by the Rob Dixon Quintet. The evening also features a dynamic performance of artistry and healing through spoken word and jazz, with Emmy Award-winning poet Lasana D. Kazembe and his ensemble, Watu Wazuri. Expect an evening filled with energy, passion, cultural insight, and artistic improvisation.
Indy Jazz Collective featuring Rayford Griffin - Indy Jazz Fest
The Indianapolis Jazz Collective is an all-star group of the city’s finest jazz musicians. Led by Indy Jazz Fest Artistic Director Rob Dixon, the collective often features special guest soloists and notable figures in the jazz world. They curate unique collaborations, and in the past, have included artists such as Bobby Watson, Stefon Harris, and Randy Brecker.
Brandee Younger - Indy Jazz Fest
Trailblazing harpist Brandee Younger redefines what the harp can do. Blending classical mastery with jazz, soul, and hip-hop, she’s collaborated with artists from Ravi Coltrane to Lauryn Hill. Her Grammy-nominated work weaves elegance and edge into a genre-defying experience.
Gunhild Carling - Indy Jazz Fest
Swedish jazz powerhouse Gunhild Carling is a true one-woman show—singer, dancer, multi-instrumentalist, and vintage jazz revivalist. With fiery trombone solos and Charleston flair, her shows are a whirlwind of talent and old-school swing with modern sass.
Jazz In Columbus # 4 - Pavel & Direct Contact
LIVE MUSIC DOWNTOWN
The JazzIN Columbus free concert series returns for summer 2025!
September 18: Pavel and Direct Contact
Move to the high energy sound of the group Pavel & Direct Contact. This Latin Jazz and Salsa ensemble is led by pianist Pavel Polanco-Safadit and backed by an outstanding band of musicians.
Concerts are free and open to the public. Shows will be take place Thursday evenings, 6:00–7:30 pm on 4th Street between Washington and Franklin.
The JazzIN Columbus series is sponsored in partnership with the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation, Office of Downtown Development, Columbus Area Visitors Center, Columbus Museum of Art & Design, and Columbus Indiana Philharmonic.
Ms Lisa Fischer - Indy Jazz Fest
A GRAMMY-winning vocalist whose extraordinary voice has graced stages with the Rolling Stones, Luther Vandross, and Tina Turner. After decades as a sought-after backup singer, Fischer stepped into the spotlight with her soulful solo artistry—blending jazz, gospel, rock, and classical influences. Her performances are unforgettable, intimate, and transcendent.
Keyon Harrold - Indy Jazz Fest
A virtuoso trumpeter and social voice of his generation, Keyon Harrold blends jazz, R&B, and hip-hop into a signature sound praised by NPR and Rolling Stone. Known for his work on Miles Ahead and collaborations with Common, Beyoncé, and Gregory Porter, he delivers raw emotion with every note.
Gonzalo Rubalcaba - Indy Jazz Fest
The multi-Grammy© Winner, pianist and composer Gonzalo Rubalcaba was already a young phenom with a budding career in his native Cuba when he was discovered by Dizzy Gillespie in 1985. Piano & Keyboard Magazine selected him in 1999 as one of the great pianists of the 20th century, he has won two Grammys and two Latin Grammys, and established himself as a creative force in the jazz world. This trio features Rubalcaba with drummer Eric Harland and bassist Ricky Rodriguez.
Brian Culbertson - Indy Jazz Fest
A chart-topping jazz-funk keyboardist, composer, and producer, Brian Culbertson brings high-energy performances rooted in R&B, smooth jazz, and soul. With over 20 albums and countless #1 Billboard hits, his shows blend dazzling musicianship with show-stopping stage presence.
Terence Blanchard featuring The E-Collective - Indy Jazz Fest
Two-time Oscar-nominated composer and 6-time GRAMMY winner, Terence Blanchard is a visionary jazz trumpeter known for his cinematic scores (including many for Spike Lee) and his groundbreaking fusion of jazz with opera, hip-hop, and contemporary themes. A true modern icon of jazz.
Judith Hill - Indy Jazz Fest
Judith Hill brings her signature blend of funk, soul, and fearless storytelling to the Grand Finale stage. A GRAMMY winner who’s worked with Prince and Michael Jackson, Hill now shines with Letters from a Black Widow—a bold, emotional album praised for its powerful vocals and raw honesty. Expect a performance packed with fire, depth, and soul.
Nicole Henry featuring Indy Jazz Fest All-Stars - Indy Jazz Fest
Hailed as one of the most soulful voices in jazz today, Nicole Henry brings a captivating blend of elegance, power, and emotional depth to the stage. Her interpretations of jazz standards and R&B classics have won her international acclaim—and a Soul Train Award.
IJF24 GRAND FINALE
We are back with a lineup of international stars, modern masters and Indy-based creators. The Fest will once again culminate with its grand finale event in downtown Indianapolis at Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park.
Gates open at 3 p.m. | Tickets start at $55
CHAKA KHAN
9:15p
A cultural icon, Chaka's distinctive voice and style have influenced generations all over the world. The 10-time GRAMMY Award-winning superstar has defined pop, soul, jazz, and funk music. For Chaka, her empowering anthem “I’m Every Woman” is more than just a song; it’s a way of life.
MARCUS MILLER
7:30p
With his distinctive style - a unique combination of funk, groove, soul and pure technical skills - Miller has been referred to as one of the most significant bass players in jazz, R&B, fusion and soul. Bass Player Magazine includes him on its list of ten most influential jazz players of this generation.
MICHAEL FRANKS
5:45p
Considered a leader of the quiet storm movement, Franks is known for his string of hits including “Popsicle Toes, "Antonio's Song.” “The Lady Wants to Know” and many others.
STEVE ALLEE
& THE MAGIC HOUR BAND
4p
Indy’s legendary piano force reconvenes his chart-topping contemporary band for this special occasion featuring jazz superstars
Rob Dixon - sax
Marlin McKay - trumpet
Richard “Sleepy” Floyd - drums
Jon Wood - bass
Shawn McGowan - keys
MONONEON
MONONEON
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Friday, September 27 - 7 & 10p | $35-65
A creative risk-taker, MonoNeon, Dywane Thomas Jr., or however you refer to him as - is an individual who is necessary because the game needs someone as intriguing, mysterious, and colorful as him.
As an artist who has ridiculous chops, an endless supply of creativity, an honor and relatable philosophy that is as enriching as it is educational, MonoNeon is one of the most easily recognizable bassist playing today.
JJ AT 100 INDIANAPOLIS JAZZ COLLECTIVE FEATURING STEVE TURRE
JJ AT 100
INDIANAPOLIS JAZZ COLLECTIVE FEATURING STEVE TURRE
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Wednesday, September 25 | 6:30 & 9p | $25 to $50
Celebrating the legacy of Indianapolis native, trombone and composing legend JJ Johnson, the Indianapolis Jazz Collective. Curated by saxophonist and Indy Jazz Fest Artistic Director Rob Dixon and a cast of Indianapolis based all-stars.
Steve Turre - trombone
Pharez Whitted - trumpet
Rob Dixon - sax
Steve Allee - piano
Nick Tucker - bass
Kenny Phelps - drums
Made possible by Mark Sheldon & Lin Frauenhoff
MARQUIS HILL
MARQUIS HILL
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Sunday, September 22 - 5 & 7:30p | $20-40
One of Chicago’s most thrilling young trumpeters, and internationally renowned musician, composer and bandleader, Marquis Hill works tirelessly blurring musical genres. Contemporary and classic jazz, hip-hop, R&B, Chicago house, neo-soul—to Hill, they’re all essential elements of the profound African-American creative heritage.
NAPTOWN SOUND
NAPTOWN SOUND
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Saturday, September 21 - 7:30p | $50
Line up subject to change
INDIANA ALL-STATE JAZZ COMBO
FREDDIE HUBBARD TRIBUTE
Indianapolis Jazz Collective
Rob Dixon, Pharez Whitted, Derrick Gardner, Steve Allee, Kenny Phelps, Nick Tucker
VOCALEASE
Wendy Reed, Sandy Lomax, Rebecca Rafla, Emma Hedrick
BASHIRI ASAD
everyday soul singer
THE BLUE SIDE
Tad Robinson, Gordon Bonham, Goldie Ingram, Kevin Anker, Reggie Bishop, Kenny Phelps, Rob Dixon
PAVEL & DIRECT CONTACT
Leah Crane, Steve Dokken, Matt McGraw, Gerardo Becerra, Rich Cohen, Vick Luna, David Allee
SleepyNap AFROBEAT EXPERIENCE
Deep Rhythms and Grooves
MALCOLM-JAMAL WARNER with “MILES LONG”
MALCOLM-JAMAL WARNER with “MILES LONG”
PRESENTED BY THE CABARET
The CABARET
924 N Pennsylvania St Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Saturday, September 21 - 5 & 8p | $35 to $75
An evening with Emmy nominated actor and GRAMMY Award-winning poet and musician Malcolm-Jamal Warner. An accomplished bassist and poet, this show will unite his many talents and musical styles.
LAKECIA BENJAMIN
LAKECIA BENJAMIN
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Friday, September 20 - 7 & 9p | $35 to 65
Lakecia Benjamin is a 3x GRAMMY nominated New York-based saxophonist, arranger, composer, and educator. Her music offers a unique meld of R&B, several strains of jazz, and funk. Her warm, resonant tone — that has been compared to Johnny Griffin’s — lends itself to any form of music she chooses to play. She recently released her first live studio album Phoenix Reimagined.
Made possible by Lin Frauenhoff and Mark Sheldon
AYMÉE NUVIOLA
AYMÉE NUVIOLA
PRESENTED BY THE CABARET
The CABARET
924 N Pennsylvania St Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Thursday, September 19 - 7:30p | $35 to $75
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, enjoy an electric evening with multi-GRAMMY Winner and Latin GRAMMY Award winning singer, musician, songwriter and actress Aymée Nuviola. Known as “La Sonera del Mundo,” native Cuban Nuviola embodies an electric blend of musical genres, with a sound highly influenced by the Jazz, Bossa Nova, Cuban Son, Bolero, Fílin, Classical, and American genres.
BRIA SKONBERG
BRIA SKONBERG
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Wednesday, September 18 - 6:30 & 9p | $25 to $45
Bria Skonberg is a Juno-award winning artist, 10x Downbeat Rising Star, and a recipient of the Legend Award by the Society for the Preservation of the Great American Songbook. The trumpeter, vocalist, and composer unveils her newest project “What It Means” returning to what inspired her in the first place: the sounds of New Orleans jazz.
* Midwest Expo showcase
KANDACE SPRINGS
KANDACE SPRINGS
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Tuesday, September 17 - 6:30 & 9p | $30-60
Jazz/soul diva Kandace Springs has been described as having “A voice that could melt snow” by Prince. The Blue Note recording artist’s newest release is “Run Your Race.”
* Midwest Expo showcase
Jazz at the Center
Experience the best in Indy this summer outside at the Indianapolis Art Center Terrace
JAZZ AT THE CENTER • STEVE ALLEE CONTEMPORARY BAND
featuring Steve Allee, Rob Dixon, John Raymond, Jon Wood, Richard “Sleepy” Floyd
Join us at the Indianapolis Art Center for the first of three shows in our 4th annual summer concert series Jazz at the Center! On Thursday, August 15 at 7:00PM
BEER / WINE / SODA CASH BAR BY THE INDIANAPOLIS ART CENTER
FRESH TACOS AND CRAB CAKE SLIDERS BY THE JAZZ KITCHEN
Tickets are $25ea OR until June 20 there is a full series package (entrance to all three shows) for $20ea (all three shows for $60). Children 12 and under are free with paid adult.
In the event of inclement weather on the day of the show, we will alert you of the cancellation. The "rain date" for this show is Wednesday, August 21.
Jazz at the Center
Experience the best in Indy this summer outside at the Indianapolis Art Center Terrace
JAZZ AT THE CENTER THE BLUE SIDE W/ TAD ROBINSON, GORDON BONHAM & SADIE JOHNSON
plus Kevin Anker, Rob Dixon, Reggie Bishop & Kenny Phelps
Join us at the Indianapolis Art Center for the first of three shows in our 4th annual summer concert series Jazz at the Center! On Thursday, July 18 at 7:00PM
BEER / WINE / SODA CASH BAR BY THE INDIANAPOLIS ART CENTER
FRESH TACOS AND CRAB CAKE SLIDERS BY THE JAZZ KITCHEN
Tickets are $25ea OR until June 20 there is a full series package (entrance to all three shows) for $20ea (all three shows for $60). Children 12 and under are free with paid adult.
In the event of inclement weather on the day of the show, we will alert you of the cancellation. The "rain date" for this show is Wednesday, June 24.
Jazz at the Center
Experience the best in Indy this summer outside at the Indianapolis Art Center Terrace
JAZZ AT THE CENTER "FROM THE 317" FEATURING ROB DIXON, SARAH SCHARBROUGH & RUSTY REDENBACHER
Join us at the Indianapolis Art Center for the first of three shows in our 4th annual summer concert series Jazz at the Center! On Thursday, June 20 at 7:00PM
BEER / WINE / SODA CASH BAR BY THE INDIANAPOLIS ART CENTER
FRESH TACOS AND CRAB CAKE SLIDERS BY THE JAZZ KITCHEN
Tickets are $25ea OR until June 20 there is a full series package (entrance to all three shows) for $20ea (all three shows for $60). Children 12 and under are free with paid adult.
In the event of inclement weather on the day of the show, we will alert you of the cancellation. The "rain date" for this show is Wednesday, June 26.
OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair
Kick off your summer fun at the 52nd OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair on May 18 + 19 at the Indy Art Center.
Support the arts and shop from 150+ local, regional, and national artists. The OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair is a nationally ranked, highly selective, juried art fair that benefits the Indy Art Center as its largest annual fundraiser.
Patrons can enjoy incredible one-of-a-kind art, live music curated by Indy Jazz Fest, fantastic food, Bier Brewery products, artist demonstrations, and interactive art activities for people of all ages! Celebrate the richness of the Indianapolis arts community with us!
Get your tickets today!
Sunday, May 19
11:00-11:45 am - School of Rock
Noon-1:00 pm - The Gene Markiewicz Band
1:15-2:15 pm - Pavel and Direct Contact
2:30-3:30 pm - Native Sun
3:45-4:45 pm - Bashiri Asad
OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair
Kick off your summer fun at the 52nd OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair on May 18 + 19 at the Indy Art Center.
Support the arts and shop from 150+ local, regional, and national artists. The OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair is a nationally ranked, highly selective, juried art fair that benefits the Indy Art Center as its largest annual fundraiser.
Patrons can enjoy incredible one-of-a-kind art, live music curated by Indy Jazz Fest, fantastic food, Bier Brewery products, artist demonstrations, and interactive art activities for people of all ages! Celebrate the richness of the Indianapolis arts community with us!
Get your tickets today!
Saturday, May 18
11:00-11:45 am - School of Rock
Noon-1:00 pm - Katherine Nagy and Friends
1:15-2:15 pm - Groovesmash
2:30-3:30 pm - Hurricane and the Gang
3:45-4:45 pm - From the 317
OneAmerica Financial Broad Ripple Art Fair Preview Party
Preview Party + VIP Weekend Experience: All Access, All Weekend!
Preview Party: Friday, May 17 from 6-8 pm
Get an early look at a select number of artists while enjoying food from The Jazz Kitchen and live music curated by Indy Jazz Fest.
VIP Weekend Experience Includes:
Preview Party Ticket + Art Fair Ticket + VIP Deck Pass with complimentary food, Bier Brewery beer, and wine brought to you by RNDC.
$150 per Preview Party + VIP Weekend Experience
Pavel Nuñez (2 shows)
Pavel Nuñez is a singer-songwriter from the Dominican Republic with influences in Rock en Español, Latin Pop, and Dominican traditional music. He is best known for his international hit single "Te Di', and other favorites like "Betania" and "Paso a Paso."
Pavel Nuñez has been nominated for:
Latin Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Tropical Album in 2022
Latin Grammy Award for Best Tropical Song in 2020
Latin Grammy Award for Best Singer-Songwriter Album in 2010
Latin Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album in 2019
His show "Big Band' won an Emmy Award in 2013, and he also won The Dominican Republic higher honor award, Premios Cassandra/Soberano, 11 times. In 2023, he has been nominated 8 times for the Premios Soberano.
Countless number-one hits on Latin radio and collaborations with major Latin artists make Pavel Nunez's show a must-watch.
Pavel Nunez will be accompanied by his colleague, Pavel Polanco-Safadit on piano, Rob Dixon on Saxophone, Steve Dokken on bass, and Matt McGraw on drums.