The Velvet Note

Saturday, April 29th: NY-Based Vocalist Shayna Steele
2023-04-29 19:30 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM.

“In one performance, California-born, New York-based vocalist Shayna Steele unleashed enough voltage to light up the West End.”

— London Jazz News

One of the greatest singing sensations of our time, known from recordings with Snarky Puppy and Moby and a host of other stars, Shayna Steele takes flight on her third album, “Watch Me Fly”. Offering six self-penned originals and four select classics ranging from Soul via Blues and Gospel and easily crossing over to retro R&B and Jazz, showcasing Shayna Steele’s supremely soulful energy, as well as her mind blowing vocal artistry and songwriting skills.

“I am outrageous, larger than life” are the first words on Shayna Steele’s new album. The few notes she sings to voice them in the aptly named song “Be” already make it clear that this is not braggadocio, but a fact. The singer, born in California and raised in Mississippi, who as a self-proclaimed “American Air Force brat” grew up all over the world, but lives and thrives in New York, not only has a charismatic, charming and truly unique voice, but also plenty of technique and the vocal strength of a volcano. Shayna has performed with the likes of Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Bette Midler and Steely Dan as a sought after background vocalist. Shayna made the decision that being in the background was not an option anymore and has been touring regularly as a featured vocalist with Grammy Award winning trumpeter, Chris Botti, was a featured vocalist on Snarky Puppy’s “Family Dinner” and reached #1 on the Dance Billboard charts as a featured vocalist on Moby’s “Disco Lies.” Saying Shayna is ready to step out on her own would be a major understatement.

Friday, April 28th: The Bradie Speller Band
2023-04-28 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM. For any musician at that time to perform with what was then the hottest Jazz Fusion movement band in the world; Weather Report and Herbie Hancock’s Head Hunters was only reserved for the elite and most accomplished musicians. In November 1973 his college band The Pyramids opened a concert for Weather Report in Dayton, Ohio and before the evening was finished, Bradie was asked to come onstage with Weather Report to perform. That began his stint with Weather Report while still working to complete his Bachelor’s Degree at Antioch. In that same month after returning to New York for the holidays, he found himself being invited by Herbie Hancock to sit in with the Head Hunters Band, two weeks after the Head Hunters Album was released. That album became one of the biggest selling Jazz albums of all time and the beginning of a life-long friendship with Herbie that is intact today. After only two years of consistent playing and performing, Bradie’s unique style of African and Latin drumming carried him into live performances and recording sessions with musical heavy weights such as:

Cecil Taylor

Weather Report – Joe Zawinul -Wayne Shorter – Miroslav Vitous – Alphonso Johnson – Dom Um Romao

Herbie Hancock

Jon Lucien

Tina Turner

The Sylvers

The Pyramids

Tarika Blue

Alphonse Mouzon

Leslie Uggams

Peter Erskine

Lannie Kazan

Ryo Kawasaki

Edwin Starr

Mary Wells

Thursday, April 27th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Trumpeter/Singer Michael Cruse
2023-04-27 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Open Mic is a little like Karaoke, but much, much better. Come out and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. This week, we’ve got trumpeter/Singer Michael Cruse! herding the cats, so you know it’s gonna be hot! And come hungry and thirsty–we roll out our delicious house and bar specialities for the week, just for you!

Michael has performed and studied with jazz greats such as Roy Hargrove, Les McCann, JD Allen, Terence Blanchard, Javon Jackson, Lew Soloff, Wynton Marsalis, Delfeayo Marsalis, Jason Marsalis, John Fedchock, Fareed Haque, Vince DiMartino, Gail Wynters, Byron Stripling, Jeff Hamilton, John Von Ohlen, and Kevin Harris. Michael has also performed in several groups for Bootsy Collins, KeKe Wyatt, Keisha Cole, Mike Phillips, Chantae Cann, Damian Sneed, Marc Broussard, and Clyde Brown (Drifters). Michael was also a part of the filming of “Miles Ahead” and portrayed NYC-based trumpeter and recording artist, Ernie Royal, starring Don Cheadle as Miles Davis (r. April 2016), as well as filming for HBO’s “Lovecraft Country” (released 2020).

Thursday, April 27th: What is Jazz?
2023-04-27 18:00 - 19:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Event time: 6pm – 7pm. (before Open Mic Jam) In celebration of National Jazz Appreciation Month, The Velvet Note presents a free, entertaining and educational program that answers the question, “What is jazz?” In this fascinating hour, we explore the unique elements of jazz, what makes it different from other music, and lots of insider info you always wanted to know. Perfect for those who like jazz, love jazz, hate jazz, love someone who hates jazz, and who have been struggling to understand jazz but never knew who to ask. Moderated by Jazz Educator Justin Varnes.

Entry is FREE. Come to one session, or enjoy every session throughout the month. All we ask that you make a reservation so that we will have a seat for you, and buy something (food or drink) while you’re here.

For reserved seats, call 855.5.VELVET and let the receptionist know your name, when you’re coming and the size of your party.

Sunday, April 23rd: Eight-String Bass Virtuoso Igor Saavedra
2023-04-23 19:00 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SUNDAY SHOW TIME: 7:00PM. Igor Saavedra is the pioneer of the extended-range bass guitar. Igor is a prominent Latin American bassist who is known as a virtuoso, educator, and extended-range bass innovator. In addition to giving many clinics and master classes, he has performed with a wide range of artists.Igor Saavedra is a prominent Latin American bassist, teacher and columnist for Bass Musician Magazine (USA) and Bajista Magazine (Spain).Incredibly, he didn’t pick up a bass until the age of 22, in 1988. Completely self-taught, Igor has gone on to share his insights and skills on his very comprehensive Spanish-language website.

Starting in 1991, Igor developed a fingerstyle “sweeping” technique he now refers to as the “Vectorial Synthesis Technique.” He now uses this technique exclusively, and for this purpose, he also created “Igor’s Mic ramp,” a wooden ramp located under the strings. A pioneer of extended-range basses, Igor has been playing an 8-string bass since 1999. That same year, he developed a concept called “Rear Truss Rod Access” and has installed it in all his basses. The RTA allows bassists to access the truss rod without moving the strings to insert an allen wrench.Since 1988, Igor has worked with more than 100 top Chilean and international artists and groups in all musical styles, and recorded on more than thirty CDs. This list includes Bob Sheppard, Hanz Zermuhlen, Fareed Haque Quartet, Tom McMorran, Ramón Stagnaro, Jim Paxson, Jan Fabricky, Jean Marc Belkady, Miucha Buarque, Antti Kotikosky, Marcelo Berestovoy, Robert Incelli, Enzo Villaparedes, Walfredo Reyes Jr. and Joe Bianco. In 1997 he recorded a version of Rymsky Korsakoff’s Flight of the Bumblebee, note by note, at original speed, with finger technique (no pick), and without any tapping or tricks.

Friday and Saturday, April 21st & 22nd: Singer Nicole Zuraitis
2023-04-21 19:30 - 2023-04-22 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM AND 9:30PM

“A heart as big as her remarkable voice”— JAZZ POLICE

“Stunningly timeless, immediate. Zuraitis transformed her voice, opening many musical blades like a Swiss Army knife of singing; bright and light, then powerful and passionate.”— NIPPERTOWN

“Zuraitis showcases superb songcraft.”— DOWNBEAT

A GRAMMY-nominated musician and vocal chameleon, New York-based bandleader and winner of the prestigious 2021 American Traditions Vocal Competition Gold Medal Nicole Zuraitis continues to establish herself as an undeniable force in the modern jazz landscape of both NYC and beyond. Nicole’s bold, versatile voice possesses a special combination of soothing warmth, familiar authenticity, and raw grit that is reinventing the world’s conception of what it means to be a jazz artist. She infuses elements of multiple genres and approaches into her artistry, refusing to limit herself to any one corner of the music business.

Thursday, April 20th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Trumpeter/Singer Michael Cruse
2023-04-20 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Thursday, April 20th: What is Jazz?
2023-04-20 18:00 - 19:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Event time: 6pm – 7pm. (before Open Mic Jam) In celebration of National Jazz Appreciation Month, The Velvet Note presents a free, entertaining and educational program that answers the question, “What is jazz?” In this fascinating hour, we explore the unique elements of jazz, what makes it different from other music, and lots of insider info you always wanted to know. Perfect for those who like jazz, love jazz, hate jazz, love someone who hates jazz, and who have been struggling to understand jazz but never knew who to ask. Moderated by Jazz Educator Randy Hoexter.

Entry is FREE. Come to one session, or enjoy every session throughout the month. All we ask that you make a reservation so that we will have a seat for you, and buy something (food or drink) while you’re here.

For reserved seats, call 855.5.VELVET and let the receptionist know your name, when you’re coming and the size of your party.

Sunday, April 16th: Legends of Jazz Presents the Music of Thelonius Monk *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2023-04-16 19:00 - 20:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY @ 7:00pm. Legends of Jazz Series presents a celebration of the music of Thelonius Monk!

Justin Varnes and his quartet will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary pianist 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!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***

Friday and Saturday, April 14th & 15th: GRAMMY-Winning Trumpeter Nabate Isles
2023-04-14 19:30 - 2023-04-15 23:00
Friday and Saturday Showtimes: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Nabaté Isles is a Grammy-winning trumpeter as well as a composer and producer, born and raised in New York City. Nabaté is releasing his second album called, En Motion, to be released on Ropeadope Records on January 27, 2023. The album features the core lineup of Sam Barsh (also the album’s producer), Eric Harland, Kaveh Rastegar, David Gilmore and Rachel Eckroth & guests include James Francies, Ben Wendel, Victor Provost, Sasha Berliner, Badia Farha. Added featured performers on the album are Mumu Fresh, Kardinal Offishall and Chuck D.

During his high school years, Nabaté represented the fifth generation of jazz for the preview of the Louis Armstrong Archives, with trumpet greats Dr. Donald Byrd, “Doc” Cheatham, “Dizzy” Gillespie, Jimmy Owens, Jon Faddis and Wynton Marsalis. Nabaté also appeared in a Coca-Cola commercial, directed by John Singleton and produced by Roy Eaton. While attending Eastman, Nabaté was a featured soloist with the Rochester Pops Orchestra. Nabaté also participated in the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz summer program at Aspen Snowmass and its Jazz Gala at the Kennedy Center. He went on to receive his BM from the Eastman School of Music and his MA from New York University.

Thursday, April 13th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Trumpeter/Singer Michael Cruse
2023-04-13 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Thursday, April 13th: What is Jazz
2023-04-13 18:00 - 19:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Event time: 6pm – 7pm. (before Open Mic Jam) In celebration of National Jazz Appreciation Month, The Velvet Note presents a free, entertaining and educational program that answers the question, “What is jazz?” In this fascinating hour, we explore the unique elements of jazz, what makes it different from other music, and lots of insider info you always wanted to know. Perfect for those who like jazz, love jazz, hate jazz, love someone who hates jazz, and who have been struggling to understand jazz but never knew who to ask. Moderated by Jazz Educator Justin Varnes.

Entry is FREE. Come to one session, or enjoy every session throughout the month. All we ask that you make a reservation so that we will have a seat for you, and buy something (food or drink) while you’re here.

For reserved seats, call 855.5.VELVET and let the receptionist know your name and the size of your party.

Saturday, April 8th: International Singer Lori Williams
2023-04-08 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SEATS AVAILABLE AT 9:30!! Acclaimed international Jazz vocalist Lori Williams has a most impressive resume as a performing artist, music educator, songwriter, producer, musical theater actress, radio host, business owner (PositiveMusicPM.org), and artist-in-residence with over 30 years of experience. Her annual vocal jazz tour and performance at music festivals have taken her to Europe (Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, Russia, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Ukraine), Japan, British Virgin Islands, and across the USA. Her vocal jazz artist residencies have allowed her to work with and mentor students on college campuses in the United States and abroad.

Saturday, April 8th: International Jazz Singer Lori Williams
2023-04-07 19:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Friday and Saturday Showtimes: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. The Velvet Note is honored to kick off Jazz Appreciation Month with incomparable voice of Lori Williams!

Acclaimed international Jazz vocalist Lori Williams has a most impressive resume as a performing artist, music educator, songwriter, producer, musical theater actress, radio host, business owner (PositiveMusicPM.org), and artist-in-residence with over 30 years of experience. Her annual vocal jazz tour and performance at music festivals have taken her to Europe (Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, Russia, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Ukraine), Japan, British Virgin Islands, and across the USA. Her vocal jazz artist residencies have allowed her to work with and mentor students on college campuses in the United States and abroad.

For over three decades, Lori Williams has had the honor of working with many notable artists as lead / background / studio session / guest vocalist including Oleta Adams, Yolanda Adams, Nikita Agafonov, David Archuleta, Marcos Ariel, Rob Bargad, Regina Belle, Eric Benet, The Blackbyrds, Michael Bowie, Karen Briggs, Norman Brown, Tom Browne, Peabo Bryson, Chuck Brown, Wayne Bruce, Jerry Butler, Jonathan Butler, Paul Carr, Terri Lyne Carrington, TC Carson, Gene Chandler, Renato Chicco, Stanley Clarke, Nick Colionne, Collaboration, Michael Colyar, Adrian Crutchfield, Chris “Big Dog” Davis, John Davis, John Di Martino, Will Downing, Joris Dudli, George Duke, Nathan East, Rodney M. Edge, Troy Sol Edler, Kevon Edmonds (After 7), Jorel “JFLY” Flynn (HBIYD), Derrick Gardner, James Genus, Jazmin Ghent, Tres Gilbert, Savion Glover, Chelsey Green, Slide Hampton, Winard Harper, Christian Havel, Walter Hawkins, Norbert Heger, Howard Hewett, Dr. W. Weldon Hill, Tony Hightower, Corcoran Holt, William Hubbard, Daryl Hunt, Jessy J, Al Johnson and The A-Team, Allyn Johnson (Divine Order), Marcus Johnson, Stanley Jordan, Michael Keul, Kindred the Family Soul, Ben E. King, James King, Anatoliy Kirnichnyy, Antoine Knight, Saltman Knowles Group, Ignat Kravtsov, Rayshun LaMarr, Lavahi, Evgeny Lebedev, Dee Lucas, Timmy Maia, Alex Malheiros (Azymuth), Jimmy Masters, Maysa Leak, Daniel McClain (After 7), Frank McComb, Marion Meadows, Najee, Jimmy Masters, Nathan Mitchell, Ed Neumeister, Marat Nikolaev, Milan Nikolic, Julia Nixon, Daniel Nösig, Antonio Parker, Phil Perry, Robert E. Person, Anne Phillips, Benjie Porecki, Lloyd Price, Chuck Redd, Robert Redd, Althea Rene, Anton Revnyuk, Lenny Robinson, Gino Rosaria, Ellie Saitoh and The Love Tambourines, Sylver Logan Sharp, Art Sherrod, Erwin Schmidt, Dick Smith, John Toomey, Tony Terry, Unit 3 Deep, Gerald Veasley, Chris Walker, Kevin Walker, Kim Waters, Anthony Wellington, Matthew Whitaker, Roz White, Bernhard Wiesinger (Poysdorf All-Stars), Vesta Williams, Larry M. Wilson, Angela Winbush, Sherry Winston, David Ylvisaker, Frederic Yonnet, et.al.

Thursday, April 6th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Trumpeter/Singer Michael Cruse
2023-04-06 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Thursday, April 6th: What is Jazz?
2023-04-06 18:00 - 19:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Special Event--Wednesday, April 5th: Eighteen-Time GRAMMY-WINNER Bobby Sparks w/ Special Guest Gabriela Anders
2023-04-05 19:00 - 22:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
A multi-GRAMMY-winning jazz and gospel organist, Bobby Sparks II is best known as a member of the band Snarky Puppy, and as a longtime collaborator with gospel leader Kirk Franklin. Following his debut with Franklin in the early ’90s, he was a member of Roy Hargrove‘s RH Factor, and played alongside a mix of jazz, gospel, and pop luminaries including Fred Hammond, Marcus Miller, George Benson, Nelly Furtado, and many more. In 2019, he released his long-awaited solo album, Schizophrenia: The Yang Project.

Saturday, April 1st: Argentinian Star Gabriela Anders *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2023-04-01 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Saturday Showtimes: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Gabriela Anders was born to music amidst the grace, paradox and tradition of Argentina. Her father is a noted jazz saxophonist, her grandfather was a classical violinist, and her grandmother a piano teacher. Gabriela studied classical guitar and piano at the Conservatory in Buenos Aires, but her father’s jazz influence ultimately determined her musical direction. After finishing high school, Gabriela moved to New York City to study orchestration for brass and strings with Don Sebesky. She also studied composition at Hunter College and began writing her own material. While working regularly in local jazz clubs, she started what would become a very successful career doing sessions for radio and television on the New York studio scene. In 1998, she secured her first record deal with the major American label: Warner Brothers Jazz. Her first album on Warner Brothers, “Wanting”, elicited much praise for Anders’ musical vision and impassioned vocal style. It featured arrangements and production by George Duke, Allain Mallet, Paul Brown and Anders herself. Gabriela wrote ten of the album’s twelve tracks. Anders toured the US, Europe and Asia in support of the release. While on Warner, she also recorded with Al Jarreau, Bob James and Michael Franks. She twice performed at the Montreaux Jazz Festival with George Duke’s band. Her second record for Warner, “Gabriela”, featured an array of world-class sidemen, including Christian McBride, Amir “Questlove” Thompson and Kirk Whalum. Again, she contributed ten of the album’s twelve tracks. Gabriela was subsequently signed as an artist with Narada/EMI and JVC Japan. The resulting records, “Last Tango In Rio” and “Bossa Beleza”, featured her own music as well as her arrangements of Brazilian standards – an idiom close to her musical heart since her early days as a student in Buenos Aires – and her contemporary versions of the classic Billy Holiday repertoire. On Gabriela Anders’ 2017 CD, “Cool Again”, the singer / vocal orchestrator / songwriter / bandleader tracks live with an array of stellar sidemen including the guitarist Wayne Krantz and bassist Anthony Jackson. The music: funky, soulful pop-jazz, strikingly invigorated by Gabriela’s improvisational nature and spontaneous approach.

Gabriela Anders is also the arranger and vocalist for her new ensemble and 2021 CD, “Los Dukes”: a 7-piece band featuring some of the best Latin jazz players in NYC. “Los Dukes” play the music of Duke Ellington in a wide range of iconic Latin American styles – baion, merengue, cha-cha, bolero, reggae, mambo and more. One of very few jazz vocalist/arrangers on the scene, Gabriela puts her stamp of unique creativity on this unexpected format with incendiary results. Hailed by critics (Los Angeles Times, Billboard magazine and People magazine) as ‘highly original and creative artist’, a ‘multi-talented artist who is destined to leave her mark on the jazz world’ and the ‘most promising jazz influenced artists today’.

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

Friday, March 31st: Singer/Songwriter Robbie Danzie *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2023-03-31 19:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Robbie Danzie is a masterful and distinguished international singer, actress, songwriter, and television/film content creator who earned a prestigious membership designation with SAG-AFTRA early in her career and has maintained her status for a breadth of contributions to the art of entertainment around the world.

Robbie was born in the Midwestern region of the United States (Missouri), her launching pad for her incredible international entertainment journey ahead. Early in her career, Robbie joined the R&B group Krystol (CBS/Epic) as a temporary replacement for the lead singer a role that quickly became permanent as Robbie flourished as the group’s lead singer. Next, Robbie’s path led her to a solo career in Japan, where she would later add artist manager and vocal coach to her growing list of accomplishments.

As a featured artist, Robbie performed and toured with U.S. artists, Incognito and Roy Ayers. Displaying her versatility, she toured with international artists Ai, Anri, Coco Lee and Mika Nakashima, Robbie sang in both Japanese and Mandarin. She has recorded more than a dozen projects on several labels including her work with Krystol, Genai (vocal-guitar duo), a featured vocalist for Masters of Funk, and her own solo projects.

Robbie has used her gifts and grown her talent with her collaboration on projects with producers including Michael Narada Walden, Leon Silvers, Randy “Idol” Jackson, and Craig T. Cooper. She also collaborated as a writer and/or vocalist on recordings with Rebbie Jackson, Surface, and Michael Henderson.

Robbie’s work continues as her voice can be heard on Beatmania video games, and Pokemon songs, including the ending theme song for The Big O (a Japanese television series), “And Forever.”

Robbie currently performs with her band and is excited to be working on various new vocal performance, acting, and content creation projects. She credits her career to her natural love for the arts and her ability to connect with others using her incredible gifts.

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

Thursday, March 30th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Songwriter EllaBeth!
2023-03-30 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Open Mic is a little like Karaoke, but much, much better. Come out and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. This week, we’ve got singer/songwriter EllaBeth, who will be here ALL MONTH LONG, herding the cats, so you know it’s gonna be hot! And come hungry and thirsty–we roll out our delicious house and bar specialities for the week, just for you!

Sunday, March 26th: LaLucha with Guest Singer Scotty Wright
2023-03-26 19:00 - 22:30 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
La Lucha is a Tampa Bay based trio that consists of three best friends from three different parts of the world: Colombia (Alejandro Arenas), Mexico (John O’Leary), & United States (Mark Feinman). Their music ventures boldly into a wide variety of musical styles, offering an appealing and fun mix of genres under the jazz umbrella.

Equipped with a smooth, supple voice, nimble, knowing phrasing, relaxed delivery and a soulful, playful style, romantic singer Scotty Wright grants equal awareness to both melody and lyric, becoming a favorite with jazz audiences wherever he performs.

Saturday, March 25th: Joe Gransden's Swingin' at The Haven *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!!
2023-03-25 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Joe Gransden is from New York City. Coming from a family full of musicians, Joe’s introduction to music came early on through his father, a gifted singer and pianist. His grandfather was a trumpeter of merit, playing professionally his whole life throughout New York. On his mother’s side of the family was the piano virtuoso Carmen Cavallero.

“Music has been a part of my life as far back as I can remember, “says the unassuming Joe Gransden. “I can remember practicing with my father, and eventually him taking me along to sit in at jam sessions. Early on I developed a respect for individuals like my father whose lives revolved around music. While still in high school, I knew that music was the life I would choose.”

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

Friday, March 24th: Joe Gransden's Songs of Sinatra and Friends *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2023-03-24 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. There is no party like a Joe Gransden party! Get your party shoes on as Atlanta’s favorite jazz musician whips up a memorable night of Frank Sinatra’s best and much more!

Joe is from New York City. Coming from a family full of musicians, Joe’s introduction to music came early on through his father, a gifted singer and pianist. His grandfather was a trumpeter of merit, playing professionally his whole life throughout New York. On his mother’s side of the family was the piano virtuoso Carmen Cavallero.

“Music has been a part of my life as far back as I can remember, “says the unassuming Joe Gransden. “I can remember practicing with my father, and eventually him taking me along to sit in at jam sessions. Early on I developed a respect for individuals like my father whose lives revolved around music. While still in high school, I knew that music was the life I would choose.”

Thursday, March 23rd: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Songwriter EllaBeth!
2023-03-23 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
Open Mic is a little like Karaoke, but much, much better. Come out and listen to or jam with our extraordinary house band, or take the stage all on your own. This week, we’ve got singer/songwriter EllaBeth, who will be here ALL MONTH LONG, herding the cats, so you know it’s gonna be hot! And come hungry and thirsty–we roll out our delicious house and bar specialities for the week, just for you!

$10.

Sunday, March 19th: Legends of Jazz Presents The Music of Ben Webster *** SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***
2023-03-19 19:00 - 20:30
ONE SHOW ONLY @ 7:00pm. Legends of Jazz Series presents a celebration of the music of Ben Webster.

Justin Varnes and his quartet will guide guests–in engaging, narrative form– through the life of this legendary saxophonist 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!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! SOLD OUT!! ***

Saturday, March 18th: The Kevin Bales Quartet
2023-03-18 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. By some measures, Kevin Bales was a latecomer to jazz, already 17 when he encountered the sounds and structures and became captivated by the freedom and corresponding challenges of the music. But if late to the party, he wasted no time in immersing himself in the celebration, declaring total commitment to what would be his life’s work and backing his announcement by resigning his job and designated career in computer programming. Kevin could commit to jazz with a reasonable degree of expectation. He was already an accomplished pianist, with classical chops refined since the age of 10. So accomplished he was invited to audition for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, then under the direction of its most storied conductor Robert Shaw, at age 16.

Kevin’s initial career move was to the University of North Florida and a budding if little-known jazz program. There he met and performed with, and went on to record and tour with, a number of monumental artists who had settled into that burgeoning North Florida jazz scene. Giants like Wynton Marsalis, Louie Bellson, Eddie Daniels, James Moody, Ben Tucker, Ira Sullivan, Sam Rivers, and Nat Adderley. He counts among his mentors bassist Ben Tucker, multi-instrumentalist Ira Sullivan, guitar legends Nathen Page and Jack Petersen, and the fiercely individual saxophonist Bunky Green. His meeting with Bunky Green led to five years of tours. His encounter with guitarist Nathen Page blossomed into 15 years of spot tours and four albums. And his work with trumpeter extraordinaire Marcus Printup has become a lifetime association that has included recordings on Blue Note/Capital records. Ten years touring and recording with vocal iconoclast Rene Marie culminated in a Grammy Nominated album. His most recent recording of music composed by Fred Rogers was selected as one of the top 10 albums of 2018 by Cadence Magazine and AllAboutJazz.com

Few artists have the patience for teaching – as are few teachers accomplished players. But Kevin has amassed a reputation for his prowess in both professions. While still a senior at North Florida he was drafted into a full teaching load, and continued to be an integral part of the school’s jazz program for upwards of a decade. Today, Kevin manages his own jazz program, overseeing an ambitious schedule of ambitious jazz students and runs the improvisation and small group programs at Georgia State University.

Kevin has amassed a long list of awards and a reputation as one of the finest jazz pianists performing anywhere. In 1994, less than a decade into jazz, he won the American Pianist Association’s Jazz Piano Competition. In addition to nearly every important jazz venue in the South, he has performed in some of the most acclaimed clubs and festivals in America and around the world: the JVC Jazz Festival in New York, The Bakery in Los Angeles, The Kennedy Center and Lincoln Center jazz series, the Toronto and Edinburgh jazz festivals, and the Moscow Center for the Performing Arts.

Friday, March 17th: The Bill Hart International Jazz Fusion Band
2023-03-17 20:00 - 22:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
ONE SHOW ONLY! Canadian Guitarist Bill Hart launches his jazz fusion show featuring his unique take on world music and genre-bending selections. Only one performance, so get your seats soon!

Thursday, March 16th: Open Mic Jam Hosted by Singer/Songwriter EllaBeth!
2023-03-16 20:00 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States

Saturday, March 11th: Bob Bakert--Timeless *** 6 SEATS REMAINING ***
2023-03-11 19:30 - 23:00
SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM & 9:30PM. Music from the 1960s and 70s was incredibly influential and shaped the sound of rock for years to come. Many of the bands from that time were extremely innovative, and their records still sound fresh today. There’s just something timeless about the music from that era – it’s catchy, well-written, and has an energy that’s hard to find in contemporary music and it’s why fans of all ages still enjoy the sounds of this classic era today.

For the last several years Bob Bakert has been bringing the great late 60s early 70s songs of the Beatles, Cream, Eric Clapton, Sting, Jeff Beck and many more to the Thursday night world famous Velvet Note Open Mic Jam. These performances have been crowd favorites and the band has a great time playing them. Both the crowd and band have made it clear that they want to play and hear MORE of these interpretations.

On March 11th, Bob Bakert and The World Class Velvet Note house band join energies to do TWO shows of these crowd favorites. Hearing these great songs played as only these musicians can do through their high energy jazz musical filters is a show you don’t want to miss! Timeless is 60s and early 70s rock/pop tunes jazzified, and if you’re a fan of the feeling and music of this era, you will love it.

THE BAND – Randy Hoexter – piano, Bill Hart – guitar, Andre Manga – bass and Yakou Daniel – drums and Bob Bakert – guitar and vocals.

Friday, March 10th: Mike Jones & Friends, Featuring Celebrity Drummer Lil' John Roberts
2023-03-10 19:30 - 23:00 | The Velvet Note Main Stage, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, 30005, United States
SHOWTIMES: 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Saxophonist Mike Jones and Friends features Lil’ John Roberts (drums), Godfrey Geranium (keys) and Joel Powell (bass) taking a deep dive into straight ahead jazz and their original compositions.

About Lil’ John Roberts:

One of the most sought after jazz and R&B drummers of his generation, John “Lil’ John” Roberts ’92(Opens in a new window) has maintained his status in the industry as a force to be reckoned with. A native of Philadelphia, Roberts quickly became noted as a child prodigy, playing alongside Christian McBride and Joey Defranceso at the age of 16. Collectively, the trio was also a part of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, a project created and directed by Wynton Marsalis, composed of 22 of the countries best young jazz musicians.

Roberts’ formal studies began in 1991 when he was awarded a full scholarship to study at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, afterwards pursuing a touring career starting with R&B and hip-hop artist Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince (Will Smith). He later went on to tour with Dionne Farris, Excape, Monica, the Goodie Mob, and Joi, and soon after that was called to fill the shoes of drummer Jonathan Moffett touring with Janet Jackson at the very early age of 23. Roberts completed three successful tours with Janet Jackson that opened the doors to a whole new world of opportunities.

His list of credits also include many of the industries greatest such as Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Prince, Sheila E., Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Al Green, B.B. King, Paula Abdul, Yolanda Adams, Bruce Parham, BeBe and CeCe Winans, Patti LaBelle, Juanita Bynum, India.Arie, Queen Latifah, Musiq Soulchild (musical director), Jill Scott, Bilal, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and countless others.

Roberts’s television credits include: the Ray Charles Tribute, American Idol, The American Music Awards, Billboard Awards, Image Awards, VH1 Fashion Awards, the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, the Late Show with David Letterman, Chris Rock, Oprah, the Ellen DeGeneres Show, Good Morning America, Jimmy Kimmel Live, the Arsenio Hall Show, The View, Saturday Night Live and the pre-Grammy show. Roberts was also seen weeknights in the house band on the Mo’Nique Show, BET’s late night talk show. Currently he divides his time between performances and is faculty position at his alma mater, Berklee College of Music.
