The Velvet Note

Friday, April 15th: Saxophonist Reggie Hines
2022-04-15 19:30 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Celebrate Tax Day and Bring the HEAT! Reggie Hines is an ASCAP Award Winning and Grammy nominated songwriter, producer, and international recording artist. Reggie Hines’ soulful and expressive sound has provided him the opportunity to write and perform music for a diverse roster of artists including Chaka Khan, Angie Stone, Regina Belle, and Stevie Wonder.

Saturday, April 16th and Sunday, April 17th: Celebrated Jazz Harpist Edmar Castaneda
2022-04-16 00:00 - 2022-04-17 23:59 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Saturday Showtimes: 7:30pm and 9:30pm

Sunday Showtimes: 7:00pm and 9:00pm

Also starring Rodrigo Vilalon on drums. Edmar Castañeda stands quite apart from any of the others, current or past, because he has been born and bred upon the culture of “the land of a thousand rhythms”, which refers, of course, to Colombia. Thus, when he unleashes his virtuosity onto music that is informed by both what is rhythmically germane to Colombia, but inflected by the idioms of Jazz listeners are in for a panchromatic treat. This is true no matter what he plays. Melodic, harmonic and rhythmic inventions tumble with shimmering radiance ignited by the combustion of his thumbs and fingers on the upright strings.

Edmar Castañeda (born 1978) is a Colombian harpist. He performs his own compositions as well as tapping into native music of Colombia and Venezuela. Castañeda’s father was Pavelid Castañeda, a harpist, singer, and teacher. Edmar Castañeda began playing the harp at the age of 13. In the mid 1990s he moved to New York City and studied jazz trumpet before returning to the harp. In 2006 he released his first solo album, Cuarto de Colores. He is a winner of the Jazz Journalists’ Award for Player of Instruments Rare in Jazz.

He has performed with Paquito D’Rivera, Simón Diaz, Lila Downs, Giovanni Hidalgo, Joe Locke, Wynton Marsalis, John Patitucci, Janis Siegel, John Scofield, Samuel Torres, Hiromi Uehara, and the United Nations Orchestra.

Thursday, April 21st: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Guitarist Andrew Black
2022-04-21 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Come out and join us on Thursday nights in the comfort of The Velvet Note Living Room. Meet the best, most passionate local area musicians, make essential connections and relax and enjoy the scene. THIS is the area fun-spot–the place to meet others who play and/or simply enjoy great music, and it’s the ONLY Thursday night jam on the north side of town. Only $20 and no reservations necessary. All styles and genres are welcomed, so scootch on in here as a performer or spectator–it’s all fun! Hosted by Singer/Guitarist Andrew Black.

Saturday, April 23rd: Robin Latimore *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2022-04-23 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM.

Robin started singing as a little girl for devotion at her mother’s revival services and in church. “When your mom is the minister, you don’t have a choice”. It was her parents who sparked her musical interest. Her dad had a passion for traditional and contemporary jazz as well as big band swing, and her mom pushed gospel and inspirational music. Together, Robin developed a love for these two genres more than any other.

She is a graduate of The Fort Valley State University where her talent was nurtured and requested highly. After winning several talent competitions there, people started noticing that this young lady had talent. She joined her first band in 1988. She is no stranger to R & B, Rap, Country Western, and other alternative genres. Robin is heavily influenced by her idols Phyllis Hyman, Lalah Hathaway, Oleta Adams, The Clark Sisters, Kim Burrell, Maysa Leak, Karen Carpenter, Roberta Flack, and Jennifer Holiday.

Even with all this, Robin couldn’t (and wouldn’t) escape her gospel heritage. She started working as a choir director in Warner Robins, Georgia at the age of 19 and has continued to share her views on gospel music as well as teaching it with several denominational churches. “It gives me such a rush when gospel music is sang and ministered with passion”. She continues to do this same type of work, as she is the current Choir Director of St. Mark AME church in Atlanta, Ga.

Currently, Robin is the lead vocalist for her band “Robin Latimore and Friends “. She has shared the stage with jazz greats Rachelle Ferrell, Phil Perry, Maysa, Johnathan Butler, Michael Franks and Jeff Lorber. Robin also is the featured vocalist for the Ritz Carlton Downtown Atlanta, where she performs for all signature ballroom brunches. You can also catch her around town on weekends at various clubs, restaurants, and lounges.

*** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***

Thursday, April 28th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Guitarist/Singer Andrew Black
2022-04-28 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Showtime: 8pm – 11pm (come when you’d like). Have you tried OPEN MIC JAZZ JAM at Atlanta area’s #1 rated jazz club? . It’s like karaoke, but much, much better. Come out to The Velvet Note and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, including piano virtuoso Randy Hoexter, bassist Andre Manga, world drummer Yakou N’Guesson, and guitarist Bill Hart. Come hungry– we are rolling out our delicious house specialities for the week on Thursdays. Hosted by Singer/Guitarist Andrew Black. All genres welcomed!

Friday, April 29th and Saturday, April 30th: The Nat Adderley, Jr. Quartet *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2022-04-29 19:30 - 2022-04-30 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: Friday, April 29th @ 7:30pm and 9:30pm

Saturday, April 30th @ 7:30pm and 9:30pm

Nat Adderley, Jr., is a renowned jazz pianist, bandleader, arranger, and producer. Nat is perhaps best known for his more than twenty-year tenure as music director for R&B legend Luther Vandross, during which time he wrote, arranged, and produced some of Luther’s most iconic and beloved songs. He is also known for his work on the recordings of Kirk Whalum, Gloria Lynn, and Aretha Franklin. Nat Adderley, Jr. received his BA from Yale University.

In recent years, Nat has primarily been seen performing with his jazz ensemble, as well as in the piano chair with notable jazz musicians including Vincent Herring, Regina Carter, Tom Scott, and Jay Hoggard.Nat has appeared at jazz festivals and venues all over the world including Beijing, Singapore, Cape Town, Vienna, Tokyo, and at the INNtöne Jazzfestival in Diersbach. In 2019, Nat’s band headlined the Central Jersey Jazz Festival, produced by WBGO’s Sheila Anderson. Most recently, Nat headlined the star-studded reopening of the storied Apollo Theater in Harlem. Nat’s inimitable style—his authentic and reverential craft as a jazz pianist, mixed with his mastery of pop and R&B idioms, his unparalleled musical sensitivity and artistry, and his showman’s charm and wit—make his shows memorable events that are not to be missed. **** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! *******

Sunday, May 1st: Andre Manga
2022-05-01 19:00 - 22:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:00pm and 9:00pm. Native of YaoundÃ©, Cameroon in Central Africa, composer, arranger and bassist, Andre MANGA built his first musical instrument at seven years old, a pseudo marimba made with bamboo and a part of a tree trunk. Later, he designed a guitar with strings made from bicycle brakes cables as well.

A chance encounter with worldbeat superstar Manu Dibango convinced Manga to pursue a career as a performer although his parents disapproved of this musical leaning. By age 17, Manga was the bassist of the Cameroon National Orchestra. Soon after he relocated to Gabon to become a top session musician.

He recorded a dozen albums with African artists such as Hilarion Nguema, Tou Kone Daouda, Angele Assele, and Jean-Claude Naimro from the internationally renowned group Kassav. In 1988 AndrÃ© moved from Gabon to Paris and toured internationally with Pierre Akendengue. He later became Manu Dibangoâ€™s bass player and musical director, as they toured the world. AndrÃ© also joined a group of Cameroonian musicians to perform on Paul Simonâ€™s The Rhythm of the Saints album.

By 1995, he had settled in Los Angeles with the goal of combining jazz with traditional African rhythms. His Narada label debut LP Mother Rhythm appeared in 1998. â€œA festive package of energetic jazz-driven instrumental and vocal compositionsâ€â€”Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide. In 2011, AndrÃ© released another album, called Voyages. The album got 5 stars from Lee Armstrong of Jazz Party who described it as â€So hot. It burns me through the speakers".

Andre has produced albums for Prince DiabatÃ©, Manu Dibango, Ashley Maher, Isabelle Longnus, and many others. He has toured and/or performed with various artists including Georges Seba, David Zasloff, Boyz II Men, All4one, The temptations, Karen Briggs, Teshina Arnold, Bebe Winans, Jacky Jackson, Andrae Crouch, Donny McKurklin, Jeffrey Osbourne, Dr Dre, Kevin Tone, Patrice Rushen, Frieda Payne, Kirk Whalum, Marc Antoine, Lokua Kanza, Rick Braun, Peter White, Lao Tizer, Norman Brown, Eddy Murphy and many others.

He currently holds the bass position with singer songwriter global sensation Josh Groban.

Friday, May 6th: LatinPercussion Star Frankie Quinones
2022-05-06 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
We continue our celebration of Cinco de Mayo with Latin Percussionist Frankie Quinones. Frankie is an independent Atlanta, GA based Latin and World Percussionist with a passion for playing all styles of music. Born and raised in Buffalo, NY he has been playing drums and hand percussion since the age of four years old. In 1999 Frankie was accepted and entered on scholarship to Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA where he studied drum set and percussion with Giovanni Hidalgo, Eguie Castrillo, Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Francisco Mela, Ernesto Diaz, Kenwood Dennard and Victor Mendoza. Francisco completed his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Music at SUNY Empire State College. In December 2008 Francisco completed his Masters Degree in International Business from D’Youville College with focus on expanding Globalization through the utilization of music to gain an improved understanding of cultures for the purpose encouraging international commerce and trade.

Saturday, May 14th: The Tony Tatum Experience *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2022-05-14 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. The Tony Tatum Experience presents Cozy Classics LIVE!

Tony Tatum is an accomplished and seasoned artist that performs with the energy like no other. He had the pleasure of sharing the stage with the legendary Jacksons, The O’Jays, Ashford & Simpson and many more over the years.

He has been a featured performer on various national television shows like The Wendy Williams Show, The American Idol, and Atlanta Housewives. With his experience, Tony can deliver a magnetic performance in all forms whether solo, acoustic style, or accompanied by a band. Tony Tatum can cover songs from the 60’s to current top billboard hits.

Tony, thrives off of crowd participation and gives high energy during his performances. Get ready for the Tony Tatum Experience, where you can expect high energy, crowd engaging, and live vocal fulfillment.

Sunday, May 15th: Brazilian Jazz Starring Sofia Kriger
2022-05-15 19:00 - 22:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
A night featuring the classics of Brazilian Jazz incorporating bossa nova, MPB, samba, and more….Featuring guest artist Brazilian Singer Sofia Kriger from New York and Atlanta’s Singer/Guitarist Sander Pinheiro. Come melt away with us and join us for a night remember.

Thursday, May 19th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Dwan Bosman
2022-05-19 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Showtime: 8pm – 11pm (come when you’d like). Have you tried OPEN MIC JAZZ JAM at Atlanta area’s #1 rated jazz club? . It’s like karaoke, but much, much better. Come out to The Velvet Note and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, including piano virtuoso Randy Hoexter, bassist Andre Manga, world drummer Yakou N’Guesson, and guitarist Bill Hart. Come hungry– we are rolling out our delicious house specialities for the week on Thursdays. Hosted by Saxophonist Dwan Bosman All genres welcomed!

Friday, May 20th & Saturday, May 21st: Famed Trumpeter Dominick Farinacci
2022-05-20 19:30 - 2022-05-21 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM.

Trumpeter Dominick Farinacci graduated from the first jazz program offered by The Juilliard School, and proceeded to launch his career with a prolific run of eight albums. Farinacci was named the very first Global Ambassador to Jazz at Lincoln Center by Wynton Marsalis, working to further integrate music into communities around the world in culturally collaborative ways. In 2006 Farinacci was featured at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. on Dee Dee Bridgewater‘s JazzSet for NPR, as well as at the Tanglewood Jazz Festival. He has performed in more than 120 cities in 14 countries around the world, was a featured guest on ABC’s Good Morning America, and is a TED Speaker.

Music icon Quincy Jones says of Dominick’s accomplishments in performance, recording, education & advocacy, “This kid is 360 degrees!”

Dominick has been successful in his personal endeavors, which involve bringing music into the community through Arts and Wellness & Education. He was invited by TED to be a TED Speaker at the 2014 TED MED conference at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. He is a featured performer for the Cleveland Clinic in both Ohio and Abu Dhabi, and organized the very first jazz performance for patients in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic and the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation. His educational reach recently expanded to the GCC, in schools such as Weill Cornell Medical College, Qatar Music Academy, the American School of Doha among others.

His most recent recording “Short Stories” is produced by four-time Grammy Award winning producer Tommy LiPuma. This was Tommy & Dominick’s first collaboration, and was recorded in their hometown of Cleveland at the Gill and Tommy LiPuma Center for Creative Arts. Dominick is signed to Mack Avenue Records.

THE BIG BRUNCH EVENT: The Halie Loren Trio
2022-05-22 10:30 - 14:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Jazz-pop singer/songwriter Halie Loren, hailing from Alaska and Oregon, is driven by a passion for authentic story-telling through music. Her award-winning original songs and ten albums to-date have topped international charts, and her multi-lingual performances have delighted audiences and garnered dedicated fans around the world for over a decade. In every setting — from intimate clubs with her trio to grand halls with a symphony orchestra and everything in between — she brings a fresh and original perspective to time-honored musical paths, channeling an innate understanding of connectedness across musical boundaries: Often singing in several languages, whether it’s wringing out a ballad’s every vulnerable confession, pouring on the humor in a sassy blues, or swooning into a bossa nova’s gentle sway, on stage, Loren is all in. “Anyone who walks into a Halie Loren show comes away the better for it… an absolutely riveting and truly original artist.” (FestivalPeak.com) – www.halieloren.com www.facebook.com/halielorenmusic

Sunday, May 22nd: Legends of Jazz Presents the Music of Duke Ellington
2022-05-22 19:00 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Legends of Jazz Series begins with a celebration of the music of bandleader Duke Ellington.

Justin Varnes and his quartet will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary artist, as well as the impact that he had on the legacy of jazz. It’s like taking in a concert and taking a jazz history class at the same time.

Oh, and they’ll also play their behinds off!

Thursday, May 26th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Saxophonist Dwan Bosman
2022-05-26 20:00 - 23:00

Friday, May 27th: Songstress Emily Tucker
2022-05-27 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Miami-born, Atlanta-based vocalist Emily Tucker brings classically-trained pipes that transfer seamlessly into her heartfelt, jazz-indie style. Emily blends the warmth of Billie Eillish with the playful charm of Kristen Chenowith. She has been touted as “a rising jazz gem” and shared the stage with Tony and Grammy award winners. Emily is best known for her captivating live shows covering everything from jazz-influenced arrangements of pop hits to classic ballads. With lush soundscapes, her music draws influence from artists like Amy Winehouse, Emily King, Nat King Cole, and Anderson Paac. Emily’s dynamic voice carries the clear tone and smart soul of a bygone era.

Saturday, May 28th: The Michelle Malone Band
2022-05-28 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. Michelle Malone is an award-winning American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer in the rock, folk, blues and pop idioms. Malone was born and raised in Atlanta, GA by a musician mom with whom she toured in the summers. She grew up listening to her mother and grandmother sing in the church choir every Sunday when they werent on the road. She dropped out of high school at 16 to begin work on her rock and roll degree. After a few brushes with the law and some unsavory characters, Michelle decided to go back to high school and became the valedictorian for a small class. She attended Agnes Scott College with dreams of becoming a doctor, but was offered a record deal with Clive Davis at Arista Records, which looked alot more interesting to her than more school. When it came time to craft her own sound, she took those religious and secular roots, blended in enough folk, blues and rock to satisfy, and came up with a rootsy high-spirited sound that brings acoustic and electric slide and passionate vocals together harkening back to the lost recordings of Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, and Lucinda Williams. After several major label releases, Malone is now an independent artist with 15 studio records to date and an impressive resume which includes hi profile performances with everyone from Gregg Allman to John Mayer, the Atlanta Symphony to Ellen Degeneres, various awards including best albums, 4x best singer, 3x best acoustic guitarist, and 2 Grammy ballot nominations.

Thursday, June 2nd: The Velvet Note Open
2022-06-02 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition. Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About our Judges:

Jess Rosen is one of the of the country’s top entertainment attorneys, serving as trusted legal counsel to many of the industry’s biggest names and faces his practice on talent representation including all facets of transactional entertainment matters in music, film, TV and new media industries. For three decades, he has guided preeminent songwriters, producers, recording artists, actors, writers, and executives in critical career decisions. As a professional musician himself, Rosen has a unique perspective and understanding of issues face by talent today. Jess successfully represents high-profile clients, including Kenney Chesney, Florida Georgia Line, Alan Jackson, Lady A, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Steve Martin, Kacey Musgraves, Brad Paisley, Reba, Thomas Rhett, and George Straight.

Debbie Rosen is a performing vocalist who has commanded the stage locally, regionally and internationally. She is an enthusiastic aficionado in Italian travel, wine and food, a high level food blogger and previous Owner/CEO of her own wine distribution company.

Friday, June 3rd: The Velvet Note's 10th Anniversary, Starring Joey Sommerville!
2022-06-03 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is it! The Velvet Note’s big anniversary party is here and you are invited! It’s gonna be a jazz party throw down of great talent, food spirits and extra fun.

Joey has received numerous awards and accolades including The American Society of Young Musicians All That Jazz Award. He was a featured soloist on the Cirque du Soleil’s Juno Award winning and Grammy nominated album, Alegria.

He is an active community servant and is on the Board of Directors of The How Big Is Your Dream Foundation, an Atlanta based charity that provides music education programs to students in underserved communities. He is also an active member of NARAS/The Recording Academy (Grammys), having served two terms on the Atlanta Chapter’s Board of Governors.

Saturday, June 4th: An Evening with Laila Biali
2022-06-04 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Multi award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter, pianist and CBC Music national broadcaster has performed festivals and venues spanning five continents from New York City’s Carnegie Hall to Beijing’s National Centre for the Performing Arts, and supported international icon Sting. In 2020, Laila was honoured by SOCAN Music with the Hagood Hardy Award for Excellence in Songwriting.

Thursday, June 9th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller
2022-06-09 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun!Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About our Judges:

Gary Motley is a jazz pianist and composer. He is best known for his captivating performances, classic yet current sound, and popularity in the southeastern United States jazz music scene.

Motley has received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Great American Jazz Piano Competition and the American Composers Forum (ACF). Featured on NPR’s Piano Jazz with Marian McPartland, his notable performances also include the premiere of his first orchestral work “The Artist and the Visionary,” duo performances with pianists Dave Brubeck and Kenny Barron, and concerts with Jon Faddis, Eddie Daniels, Benny Golson, and others. Cited by his home state for his artistic and educational achievements, Gary was inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame in 2015.

As the Director of Jazz Studies at Emory University, Gary has developed The Strickland Jazz Studio – an interactive teaching facility that integrates the rich heritage of American jazz with today’s technology practices. He holds memberships with the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences and the Jazz Education Network.

Veronica Motley, Ed.D. is a psychotherapist, writer, educator, vocalist, wife and mom.

Friday, June 10th: The Bill Hart International Jazz Fusion Band
2022-06-10 20:00 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY! Canadian Guitarist Bill Hart leads show featuring his unique take on jazz fusion world music and genre-bending selections. Only one performance, so get your seats soon!

Saturday, June 11th: The Mark Rapp Funktet--Jazz Meets Motown
2022-06-11 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. The Velvet Note presents…JAZZ MEETS MOTOWN with the Mark Rapp Funktet. The Mark Rapp Funktet performs unique arrangements of popular songs from MoTown, Pop and everything in between. Jazz Meets Motown draws from classic Motown favorites and takes you on an exciting jazz journey.Mark Rapp: trumpetJonathan Knott: guitarAntonio McKie: keysRodney Foster, Jr.: bassRoderick Johnson: drumsABOUT MARK RAPPTrumpeter Mark Rapp has released 8 diverse recordings and appears as a sideman on a myriad of projects including Disney’s “Everybody Wants to be a Cat” alongside Roy Hargrove, Dave Brubeck, Esperanza Spalding, The Bad Plus, Joshua Redman and more. Rapp’s celebrated 2009 debut release “Token Tales” earned him a spot as a “Top Emerging Trumpeter” in Downbeat Magazine, sold out the Blue Note (NYC) and debuted at the famed Newport Jazz Festival. Rapp is a featured artist in Mellen Press’ “How Jazz Trumpeters Understand Their Music” among a prestigious list including Terence Blanchard, Lew Soloff, Freddie Hubbard, Tim Hagans, Dave Douglas and more. Rapp also composed and produced a jazz ballet “Woven: Life in Notes and Steps” (wovenballet.com). He has performed in jazz clubs and festivals around the world from Croatia, Brasil, Austria, Switzerland and USA including back-to-back appearances at the 2017 & 2018 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Rapp has performed in jazz clubs around the world from Snug Harbor (New Orleans), Blue Note (NYC), The Jazz Standard (NYC), Yoshi’s (San Francisco), Blues Alley (Washington, D.C.), Jazzland (Vienna, Austria), AMR (Geneva, Switzerland), Clube do Choro (Natal, Brasil) to Jazz Tunnel (Zagreb, Croatia). Jazz festivals around the world from the JVC Newport Jazz Festival, Fillmore Jazz Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, WC Handy Festival, Festival AMR des Cropettes (Switzerland), JazzTimes Festival in Croatia to the Jazz&Blues Festival in Garanhuns, Brazil. Mark was featured at Cirque du Soleil’s opening gala for KA in Las Vegas and invited by Guy Laliberte to perform for his birthday. Mark has been guest soloist with Big Bands, recorded as a special guest artist on CDs, played in the United Nations Symphony Orchestra, and has had many jazz greats perform in his bands including bassist James Genus (Herbie Hancock, Brecker Brothers, Saturday Night Live, Aretha Franklin), Walter Blanding, Jr, Don Braden, Wycliffe Gordon, Nate Smith, Clerence Penn, Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson and many others. “Rapp has his own way of defining jazz, which keeps its standard principles while delving into the experimental side.”– JazzTimes “Rapp is willing to tackle the history of this music with his eyes on the past and his mind on the present and future of this music.”– AllAboutJazz.com “One can’t help but sense a distinct identity to Rapp in both his composing and playing and for this reason, we will be hearing a lot more from him.”– Jazz Improv NY Magazine

Sunday, June 12th: Legends of Jazz Presents the Music of Cannonball Adderley *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2022-06-12 19:00 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Legends of Jazz Series begins with a celebration of the music Cannonball Adderley!

Justin Varnes and his quartet will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary artist, as well as the impact that he had on the legacy of jazz. It’s like taking in a concert and taking a jazz history class at the same time. Oh, and they’ll also play their behinds off! *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***

Thursday, June 16th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller
2022-06-16 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun!Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About our Judges: Ray and BJ Johnson are the leads of the popular Ray Howard Band. Their performances have sold more seats in The Velvet Note than any other band in our 10-year history. Together, they lead a full set of vocalists and instrumentalists in oldies, Motown and Earth, Wind and Fire revues, all over the country.

Friday, June 17th: World Music Drummer Emrah Kotan
2022-06-17 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Emrah Kotan is a classically trained percussionist who came to the United States from his native Turkey and received a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University. His debut album, The New Anatolian Experience, is a collection of original compositions and arrangements that fuse world music and jazz, creating stylistically sophisticated vibes and a genuine model of personal artistic expression.

After playing some of the most renowned venues in the world such as the Istanbul Jazz Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival and The Blue Note in New York, Emrah is one of the most sought after musicians in the Atlanta music scene. His unique musical ability transcends many genres and cultures. He is involved in various musical projects, including his own, and is the drummer/percussionist for Grammy award winning artist, India.Arie.

June 18th & 19th: Chieli Minucci & Special EFX
2022-06-18 19:30 - 2022-06-19 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SATURDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM

SUNDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:00PM AND 9:00PM

This is the premier Father’s Day Concert of the Season! Guitarist, composer, producer, and arranger Chieli Minucci is longtime leader of the Grammy-nominated jazz-fusion group SPECIAL EFX featuring Chieli Minucci, a major force on the jazz and world music scene for over 35 years. Chieli has just recently released his 35thanniversary CD, “All Stars” (Trippin N Rhythm Records). Chieli & Special EFX’s previous release saw title track, “Deep as the Night”, won Billboard Magazine’s 2018 top honors, best-song-of-the-year.

Besides writing and performing his own music, Chieli shares his guitar brilliance throughout the entertainment world. He has recorded and performed with many top artists, such as Celine Dion, Lou Reed, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, Jewel, Mark Anthony, Michael Bolton, Rupert Holmes, Eartha Kitt, Eddie Fisher, Anastasia, as well as jazz artists Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Bernie Williams, Marion Meadows, Lao Tizer, Mindi Abair, Rick

Braun, Gerald Veasley, Omar Hakim, and many others. Although renowned in the jazz and pop world, Chieli is also a gifted television and film composer. He has won 3 Emmy Awards and been nominated 10 times for his eclectic compositional work. His music can also be heard on the soundtracks of the films Bowfinger, Legally Blonde, Panic, and others. Chieli’s original scoring work can be heard in live stage productions of Peter Pan, Dora the Explorer, Thomas the Tank Engine, and others.

Wednesday, June 22nd: International Guitarist Oz Noy with the Legendary Dennis Chambers and Jimmy Haslip
2022-06-22 19:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
“It’s Jazz. It just doesn’t sound like it.” This is how virtuoso guitarist Oz Noy describes his intoxicating blend of Jazz, Funk, Rock, Blues, and R&B.

This is such a special show, we are opening our doors on a Wednesday night for this rare event!

Born in Israel, Oz Noy started his professional career at the age of 13 playing Jazz, Blues, Pop and Rock music. By age 16, he was playing with top Israeli musicians and artists. By age 24, he was one of the most established studio guitar players in the country. Oz was also a member of the house band on Israel’s top-rated television show for more than two years.

Oz Noy has performed, toured and recorded with Richard Bona, Chris Botti, Gavin DeGraw, Harry Belafonte, Cyndi Lauper, Clay Aiken, Akiko Yano, Wonder Girls, Toni Braxton, Phoebe Snow, Nile Rogers, Mike Clark, Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts, Dave Weckl, Mike Manieri, John Patitucci, The East Village Opera Company, Roger Glover, Bill Evans, The Gil Evan Orchestra,Warren Hayes, Gove’t Mule, The Allman Brothers, Allen Toussaint, Eric Johnson, Mike Stern, and many others.

Dennis Chambers is a most respected American drummer who has recorded and performed with John Scofield, Carl Filipiak, Steely Dan, Santana, Parliament/Funkadelic, John McLaughlin, Niacin, Mike Stern, and many others.

Dennis Chambers has become well-known among drummers for his impressive technique and speed.

Dennis Chambers is particularly regarded for his ability to play “in the pocket” but can also stretch very far out of the pocket which is also a hallmark of his technique. Chambers exhibits a powerful style that is technically proficient, yet highly musical and groove-oriented. He can play in a wide variety of musical genres, but is perhaps most notable for his jazz-fusion, funk, and Latin music playing. He is mostly known for his fast hands and triplets on the bass drum.

Chambers began drumming at the age of four years old, and was gigging in Baltimore-area nightclubs by the age of six. In 1978 (at 18 years old) he joined Parliament/Funkadelic, and stayed with them until 1985. In the early 1990s he joined the John Scofield band. Since then he has played with most of the major figures in jazz fusion music.

He has been part of the Maceo Parker live band and is touring with Carlos Santana and makes appearances with his band Niacin.

Jimmy Haslip was born in the Bronx, New York and grew up in Huntington, Long Island. In 1963 at the age of 13, he became interested in electric bass and has now been playing for 47+ years. Jimmy left New York in 1969 playing music in San Francisco, New Orleans, Denver and Dallas before moving on to Los Angeles in late 1975, where he began touring and recording with many different popular artists.

In 1978 he met guitarist Robben Ford and keyboardist Russell Ferrante and formed a group to record Robben’s first solo recording on Electra-Asylum. This critically acclaimed album, called ” The Inside Story” became a landmark recording. That album led to the formation of The Yellowjackets and in 1980 they recorded a debut album for Warners Bros. Records.

Jimmy is actively composing, arranging, producing and performing with Yellowjackets, who will be touring and promoting their newest recording in 2011, their 21st CD entitled “TIMELINE” on the MACK AVENUE recording Label. Yellowjackets, the two time Grammy winners, have been nominated for seventeen GRAMMY awards..

Thursday, June 23rd: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller
2022-06-23 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
This is our first-ever open-mic performance competition and last week was packed, and tons of fun! Throughout the month of June, we are searching for the most enjoyable performance we can find, and the winner will earn a coveted spot on The Velvet Note weekend calendar.

Hosted by Club Owner Tamara Fuller and silently-judged by celebrity music couples, each jam night is sure to feature the best vocal and instrumental music, tons of fun and a benevolent, the very best house band, welcoming audience cheering you on. All genres are welcomed and encouraged.

About Our Guest Judges: Cindy and Charlie Brusco are the owners of Red Light Artist Management, long-time and proud tour managers of bands such as Heart, Dave Matthews Band, Lionel Richie, Phish and Styx. In addition, Charlie is a member of the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

Friday, June 24th & Saturday, June 25th: The Legendary Mike Stern
2022-06-24 19:30 - 2022-06-25 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM & 9:30PM. The bluesy style and blistering chops of Mike Stern have made him an electric guitar icon for more than four decades. An eclectic and virtuoso guitarist and composer, he first gained notice playing with Blood, Sweat & Tears; Billy Cobham; and Joe Henderson. One of the premier guitarists of his generation, the three-time Grammy nominee was born on January 10, 1953 in Boston. After growing up in Washington D.C., he returned to Boston to study at the Berklee College of Music and got his start as a guitar player with Blood, Sweat & Tears at the age of 22. Following a stint with Billy Cobham’s powerhouse fusion band from 1979-1980, Mike moved to New York City and was recruited by Miles Davis and played a key role in his celebrated comeback band of 1981 (which also included bassist Marcus Miller, drummer Al Foster, percussionist Mino Cinelu and saxophonist Bill Evans). During his three-year period with Miles, Mike appeared on three recordings with the jazz maestro. Stern’s take-no-prisoners style was a concert attraction for this incarnation of Miles Davis’s band, and it placed him in the spotlight. “I loved playing with that rhythm section. It was so raw.”
