Music City's Authentic Jazz Club
Serving classic New Orleans prohibition cocktails, local brews, and New Orleans cuisine.
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS
Sundays-Thursdays: 5pm-7pm $7 Wells, $8 House Wines
Mondays: 9pm-Close $8 Cuba Libres, $12 Estrella & Shot of Lunazul Blanco
Celebrate New Years Eve at Rudy's Jazz Room with "The Get Down" and the Wooten Brothers!
Let the world renowned Wooten Brothers, Regi & Joseph Wooten and band, bring in your new year with the funkiest live music at Nashville's most exclusive live music venue with the best New Years Eve party in Music City! Dancing and live music with The Wooten Brothers, New Orleans themed hors d’oeuvres, champagne for the midnight toast, photo booth and more!
More Info and Tickets
615 Indie Live
615 Indie Live is a celebration of Nashville’s Independent Venues and Artists, Produced in partnership by the Music Venue Alliance Nashville and Visit Music City. The event returns Saturday February 7th and will feature 50+ local artists playing 15 independent venues across Nashville. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Music Venue Alliance Nashville (MVAN) and WNXP.
More Info and TicketsTONIGHT'S SHOWS
Rebecca Carlson
5:30pm-7:15pm, $14 at the door
Singer and songwriter Rebecca Carlson was born and raised in the small town of Milford, Iowa. Both her parents were music lovers. From an early age she was singing gospel with her entire family, and she credits this with instilling in her a great passion for music and a highly developed ear for harmony and melody. She also would lose herself in her father’s immense collection of vinyl LPs, where she got a ‘home-schooling’ like no other -everything from classic blues, jazz, rock, country and soul. She was influenced by vocalists Sarah Vaughan, Nina Simone, Linda Ronstadt and Karen Carpenter.
Rebecca was singing professionally while still in her teens, performing jazz and blues standards at local venues. At Waldorf College in Forest City IA, she studied voice and theater. This led to a stint in NYC where she performed in repertory theater and nightclubs.
In Tucson AZ, Rebecca’s powerhouse vocal style quickly established her as a high-profile and in-demand performer. For fifteen years she maintained a steady recording and touring schedule throughout the Southwestern US. She was a founding member of original blues acts The Jane Crowe Band and 22 Black, all the while maintaining her Jazz and Standards catalog at local nightclubs and theaters. Rebecca expanded her regional reputation and following considerably when she joined the ranks of Tucson’s heavyweights, recording and performing with the hi-energy Soul/R&B act The Socials as she continued to record and perform in Tucson.
Rebecca relocated to Los Angeles in 2019, intending to pursue and focus on her songwriting and her solo career. In LA Rebecca met award-winning guitarist/producer Doug Hamblin. Doug’s past work includes classic artists such as Stephen Stills, Johnny Rivers and ‘Southside Johnny’ Lyon. Rebecca and Doug began writing and recording and were immediately excited about the results. The sessions were very productive in a five-month collaboration they finished an album’s worth of all-new original material. The music covers a broad scope of classic American styles.
Upon her move to Nashville, Rebecca teamed up with coveted bassist Jimmy Sullivan to do what she does best. As a singer, Rebecca has developed a formidable turn of phrase -sometimes surreal, fanciful and wry, other times achingly intimate and heartfelt—all anchored by her knockout punch of a voice.
Rebecca was singing professionally while still in her teens, performing jazz and blues standards at local venues. At Waldorf College in Forest City IA, she studied voice and theater. This led to a stint in NYC where she performed in repertory theater and nightclubs.
In Tucson AZ, Rebecca’s powerhouse vocal style quickly established her as a high-profile and in-demand performer. For fifteen years she maintained a steady recording and touring schedule throughout the Southwestern US. She was a founding member of original blues acts The Jane Crowe Band and 22 Black, all the while maintaining her Jazz and Standards catalog at local nightclubs and theaters. Rebecca expanded her regional reputation and following considerably when she joined the ranks of Tucson’s heavyweights, recording and performing with the hi-energy Soul/R&B act The Socials as she continued to record and perform in Tucson.
Rebecca relocated to Los Angeles in 2019, intending to pursue and focus on her songwriting and her solo career. In LA Rebecca met award-winning guitarist/producer Doug Hamblin. Doug’s past work includes classic artists such as Stephen Stills, Johnny Rivers and ‘Southside Johnny’ Lyon. Rebecca and Doug began writing and recording and were immediately excited about the results. The sessions were very productive in a five-month collaboration they finished an album’s worth of all-new original material. The music covers a broad scope of classic American styles.
Upon her move to Nashville, Rebecca teamed up with coveted bassist Jimmy Sullivan to do what she does best. As a singer, Rebecca has developed a formidable turn of phrase -sometimes surreal, fanciful and wry, other times achingly intimate and heartfelt—all anchored by her knockout punch of a voice.
"Tribute to McCoy & Trane" Presented by Don Aliquo
8:00pm-10:15pm, $21 in advance, $22 at the door
Join us for Don Aliquo's tribute to McCoy & Trane, an evening celebrating two towering figures of jazz history. John Coltrane, the visionary saxophonist and composer, revolutionized modern jazz with his spiritual intensity and fearless improvisation. At his side, pianist McCoy Tyner brought a thunderous touch and harmonic brilliance that became the heartbeat of Coltrane’s classic quartet. Together, they created some of the most powerful and uplifting music ever recorded — and this performance pays homage to their unmatched legacy and enduring influence.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo leads his quartet with Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass and Joshua Cook on drums.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as possessing an “unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo leads his quartet with Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass and Joshua Cook on drums.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as possessing an “unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet
11:00pm-1:00am, $10 at the door
The Geoff Pfeifer Quartet, gritty, edgy, the real deal NYC style jazz. Saxophonist Geoff Pfeifer brings some of Nashville's top jazz cats out, and you'll be sure to feel the energy. Playing a mix of original material and Wayne Shorter tunes.
Geoff Pfeifer, a Nashville based musician and composer, has been living and performing in Nashville since 2005. Geoff studied saxophone with Ted Nash and Ralph Lalama and composition with Mike Holober and Jim McNeely. He is a saxophonist and arranger with the R&B band Chubby and The Dots and plays the 2nd Tenor Saxophone chair in The Establishment Big Band. Geoff has shared the stage with David Liebman, Jim McNeeley, David Amram, Chico O’Farrill, Arturo O’Farrill, Frank Kimbrough, Ben Allison, Michael Blake among many other musicians.
Geoff Pfeifer, a Nashville based musician and composer, has been living and performing in Nashville since 2005. Geoff studied saxophone with Ted Nash and Ralph Lalama and composition with Mike Holober and Jim McNeely. He is a saxophonist and arranger with the R&B band Chubby and The Dots and plays the 2nd Tenor Saxophone chair in The Establishment Big Band. Geoff has shared the stage with David Liebman, Jim McNeeley, David Amram, Chico O’Farrill, Arturo O’Farrill, Frank Kimbrough, Ben Allison, Michael Blake among many other musicians.
UPCOMING SHOWSFULL CALENDAR
Dec 28
"Tribute to McCoy & Trane" Presented by Don Aliquo
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $18 at the door
Join us for Don Aliquo's tribute to McCoy & Trane, an evening celebrating two towering figures of jazz history. John Coltrane, the visionary saxophonist and composer, revolutionized modern jazz with his spiritual intensity and fearless improvisation. At his side, pianist McCoy Tyner brought a thunderous touch and harmonic brilliance that became the heartbeat of Coltrane’s classic quartet. Together, they created some of the most powerful and uplifting music ever recorded — and this performance pays homage to their unmatched legacy and enduring influence.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo leads his quartet with Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass and Joshua Cook on drums.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as possessing an “unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Saxophonist Don Aliquo leads his quartet with Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass and Joshua Cook on drums.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as possessing an “unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Rudy's Jazz Jam
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $12 at the door
Rudy's hosts the official pro jazz jam. Come out and experience some of music city's best as they take the stage with Nashville's next generation of jazz performers! You will hear a variety of young, old, new and undiscovered players showing what they can do on stage. Part of the jazz tradition and what jazz embodies is the unknown and spontaneous exploration of new musical territory with new musicians sitting in live on stage; you never know who or what to expect other than the unexpected!
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
We welcome all ages to this show and have a $10 food or beverage minimum.
Dec 29
Re-Evolution
6:00pm-8:15pm central, $12 at the door
Re-Evolution is heavily influenced by traditional and classic jazz cutting edge artists such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, Elvin Jones, Thelonious Monk and many more. Featuring Brian Cornish on saxophone, Regi Wooten on bass, Daryl Johnson on drums, Adam Charney on guitar and Marc Payne on piano.
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos
9:00pm-11:15pm central, $15 at the door
A Nashville favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene and electric night of Salsa dancing! Multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez, one of Nashville's leading percussionists, bassists and favorite on the Salsa and jazz scene, plays the sounds of salsa, bachata and percussion-driven rhythms with some of the most seasoned veterans in the Nashville Latin music scene. Giovanni Rodríguez timbales/vocals, Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (conga/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), Isoel Villarrubia (bass).
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
For this show general admission tickets are available for standing and sitting in the front section of the room near the stage with the dance floor. Tickets for bar seats and tables are available as well. General admission tickets for the front section are not guaranteed to have seats as we will have a large part of the front section seating cleared for the dance floor. General admission tickets will have standing room as well as limited seating. Only our tables and bar seats will have guaranteed seating for this show.
Dec 31
New Years Eve "The Get Down" with the Wooten Brothers!
8:00pm-12:30am central, $120 in advance, $140 at the door
Come celebrate New Years Eve at Rudy's Jazz Room with "The Get Down" and the Wooten Brothers!
Let the world renowned Wooten Brothers, Regi & Joseph Wooten and band, bring in your new year with the funkiest live music at Nashville's most exclusive live music venue with the best New Years Eve party in Music City! Dancing and live music with The Wooten Brothers, New Orleans themed hors d’oeuvres, champagne for the midnight toast, photo booth and more!
Ticket options available:
2-Top Ticket: This ticket comes includes a 2-Top table with 2 chairs for 2 people. This is the only ticket option available with guaranteed seats and a table.
Couch for 5: This ticket includes a large comfy mid-century couch near the dance floor which seats up to 5 people with some small stands to set drinks. This seating does not include a table.
General Admission: This is general admission to the show without a guaranteed seating option. We will have a few other open seating options available for general admission ticket holders, but they will be on a first come first served basis and are not guaranteed. Much of Rudy's front section seating will be removed for open floor standing, socializing, and dancing.
All ticket types include admission to the Wooten Brothers show, Chef Braden's New Orleans themed passed hors d’oeuvres, a glass of champagne for the midnight toast, photo booth access and more.
We WILL SELL OUT of tickets, so get 'em before they're gone!
THERE WILL BE NO REFUNDS GIVEN FOR ANY TICKET PURCHASES.
Doors open at 8pm. 21 and over only. Wooten Brothers play from 9pm-12:30am.
Let the world renowned Wooten Brothers, Regi & Joseph Wooten and band, bring in your new year with the funkiest live music at Nashville's most exclusive live music venue with the best New Years Eve party in Music City! Dancing and live music with The Wooten Brothers, New Orleans themed hors d’oeuvres, champagne for the midnight toast, photo booth and more!
Ticket options available:
2-Top Ticket: This ticket comes includes a 2-Top table with 2 chairs for 2 people. This is the only ticket option available with guaranteed seats and a table.
Couch for 5: This ticket includes a large comfy mid-century couch near the dance floor which seats up to 5 people with some small stands to set drinks. This seating does not include a table.
General Admission: This is general admission to the show without a guaranteed seating option. We will have a few other open seating options available for general admission ticket holders, but they will be on a first come first served basis and are not guaranteed. Much of Rudy's front section seating will be removed for open floor standing, socializing, and dancing.
All ticket types include admission to the Wooten Brothers show, Chef Braden's New Orleans themed passed hors d’oeuvres, a glass of champagne for the midnight toast, photo booth access and more.
We WILL SELL OUT of tickets, so get 'em before they're gone!
THERE WILL BE NO REFUNDS GIVEN FOR ANY TICKET PURCHASES.
Doors open at 8pm. 21 and over only. Wooten Brothers play from 9pm-12:30am.
Jan 1
CLOSED
6:00pm-8:15pm central
Rudy's will be closed tonight.
Jan 2
Alex Murphy Trio
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $14 in advance, $15 at the door
Hailing from Chicago, Alex Murphy grew up in a family of musicians with parents who emphasized musical exploration at an early age. He grew up in an area where the arts were strongly supported and he had the support to grow his passion for jazz. In high school, he had the opportunity to study under many distinguished jazz performers and educators at Birch Creek Jazz Camp and began exploring writing his own music as well as iterations of jazz greats. His passion for jazz led him into continued study at DePaul University in Chicago where he was under the tutelage of Ron Perrillo and Dana Hall. Alex was part of a very talented crop of young musicians working their way into the music scene in Chicago.
Alex’s performance portfolio continues to grow. He has performed at Chicago classics including the Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Green Mill, and was featured in a master class at Symphony Center with jazz piano great Bill Charlap. He has been featured in the Chicago Jazz Festival and other area jazz festivals throughout the Midwest. Alex has had the opportunity to share the stage with artists Nicholas Payton, Dave Douglas, Bobby Broom, Mark Colenburg, Adonis Rose, Chester Thompson, Joel Frahm, Dezron Douglas, Pharezz Whitted, Mark Colby, Matt Ulery, Dennis Carroll, Roger Ingram, Gabrielle Cavassa and Joe Grandsden. From a growing studio portfolio with jazz and hip hop artists as well as his continued pursuit of live performance, Alex is excited to expand his talent into the Nashville area.
Alex’s performance portfolio continues to grow. He has performed at Chicago classics including the Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Green Mill, and was featured in a master class at Symphony Center with jazz piano great Bill Charlap. He has been featured in the Chicago Jazz Festival and other area jazz festivals throughout the Midwest. Alex has had the opportunity to share the stage with artists Nicholas Payton, Dave Douglas, Bobby Broom, Mark Colenburg, Adonis Rose, Chester Thompson, Joel Frahm, Dezron Douglas, Pharezz Whitted, Mark Colby, Matt Ulery, Dennis Carroll, Roger Ingram, Gabrielle Cavassa and Joe Grandsden. From a growing studio portfolio with jazz and hip hop artists as well as his continued pursuit of live performance, Alex is excited to expand his talent into the Nashville area.
Bruce Dudley Quintet feat. Steve Kovalcheck & Don Aliquo
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $22 at the door
Pianist Bruce Dudley leads a stellar quintet featuring guitarist Steve Kovalcheck and saxophonist Don Aliquo, with Jack Aylor on bass and Larry Aberman on drums.
Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz piano for over 40 years on concert stages, in clubs, and private residences throughout North and South America. He specializes in the Great American Songbook, as well as in the rich history of American jazz styles, from Ragtime and Stride to Modernism, Post Modernism, and performance of original music. In addition to his work as a solo artist, he leads a trio, quartet, and larger ensembles, with horns and/or strings, while also enlisting the award winning voice of his wife, Sandra Dudley. An active educator, Dudley has presented clinics across Canada, the United States, and in Colombia, South America. His recordings as a leader include DPSW Quartet - Live at the Cave (2019), The Solo Sessions (2012), Mostly Monk (2010), and Semblance (1997). Dudley has also performed with artists Aretha Franklin, Crystal Gayle, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Herb Ellis, Randy Brecker, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Ink Spots, and has played keyboards for over 35 touring Broadway shows, including Beautiful, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Guys and Dolls, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Legally Blonde, among others. Bruce Dudley has published articles for Downbeat magazine and presented scholarly research at conferences in the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. His book 25 Piano Etudes in Idiomatic Styles was published in 2021 by Keuka Waters Music. Dudley is Associate Professor of Music at Belmont University. He has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado, a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and Technology from New York University.
"As the leader, Dudley set the evening’s tone with a supple, rich blend of assertive melodic statements, delightful accompaniment, first-rate phrasing, counterpoint and harmonizing." Ron Wynn - ArtsNash
"Dudley, whose fluent lines jet around the keyboard, absorbing motifs into the stream, without a split second of hesitation, at any point of rhythm in the bar, are stunning to listen to…" HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD
"Dudley plays the piano with such grace and authority that he has quietly become the pianists that other pianists go to hear." HOUSTON POST
Guitarist/composer Steve Kovalcheck hails from Nashville, Tennessee. He has performed with many notable musicians including Joey DeFrancesco, Christian McBride, Louis Hayes, Carmen Bradford, Byron Stripling, Joel Frahm, Ron Miles, McClenty Hunter, Brad Goode, Terrell Stafford, Howard Levy, Todd Parks, Sam Bush, Donald Harrison, Eddie Daniels, Jim White, Pat Bianchi as well as many others. Kovalcheck has performed internationally in China, Romania, France, and Sweden. He holds a B.M. from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and an M.M from the University of Northern Colorado. In 2009, Kovalcheck joined the Jazz Studies faculty at the University of Northern Colorado. He is an active educator, giving master classes and clinics at universities and colleges throughout the United States.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as “smooth as silk...with an unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”. “Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire. Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz piano for over 40 years on concert stages, in clubs, and private residences throughout North and South America. He specializes in the Great American Songbook, as well as in the rich history of American jazz styles, from Ragtime and Stride to Modernism, Post Modernism, and performance of original music. In addition to his work as a solo artist, he leads a trio, quartet, and larger ensembles, with horns and/or strings, while also enlisting the award winning voice of his wife, Sandra Dudley. An active educator, Dudley has presented clinics across Canada, the United States, and in Colombia, South America. His recordings as a leader include DPSW Quartet - Live at the Cave (2019), The Solo Sessions (2012), Mostly Monk (2010), and Semblance (1997). Dudley has also performed with artists Aretha Franklin, Crystal Gayle, Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Herb Ellis, Randy Brecker, Little Anthony and the Imperials, the Ink Spots, and has played keyboards for over 35 touring Broadway shows, including Beautiful, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Guys and Dolls, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Legally Blonde, among others. Bruce Dudley has published articles for Downbeat magazine and presented scholarly research at conferences in the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. His book 25 Piano Etudes in Idiomatic Styles was published in 2021 by Keuka Waters Music. Dudley is Associate Professor of Music at Belmont University. He has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado, a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Business and Technology from New York University.
"As the leader, Dudley set the evening’s tone with a supple, rich blend of assertive melodic statements, delightful accompaniment, first-rate phrasing, counterpoint and harmonizing." Ron Wynn - ArtsNash
"Dudley, whose fluent lines jet around the keyboard, absorbing motifs into the stream, without a split second of hesitation, at any point of rhythm in the bar, are stunning to listen to…" HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD
"Dudley plays the piano with such grace and authority that he has quietly become the pianists that other pianists go to hear." HOUSTON POST
Guitarist/composer Steve Kovalcheck hails from Nashville, Tennessee. He has performed with many notable musicians including Joey DeFrancesco, Christian McBride, Louis Hayes, Carmen Bradford, Byron Stripling, Joel Frahm, Ron Miles, McClenty Hunter, Brad Goode, Terrell Stafford, Howard Levy, Todd Parks, Sam Bush, Donald Harrison, Eddie Daniels, Jim White, Pat Bianchi as well as many others. Kovalcheck has performed internationally in China, Romania, France, and Sweden. He holds a B.M. from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and an M.M from the University of Northern Colorado. In 2009, Kovalcheck joined the Jazz Studies faculty at the University of Northern Colorado. He is an active educator, giving master classes and clinics at universities and colleges throughout the United States.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as “smooth as silk...with an unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”. “Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire. Notable collaborations include a duo recording with eclectic pianist Michael Jefry Stevens and quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Miles Damaso Trio
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Miles Damaso is a percussionist, music educator, and composer-arranger based out of Nashville, Tennessee. In addition to leading his own group, he recently has been the drummer for the Hickey-Shanafelt 9ollective and the J.C. Clements Band. Miles also frequently performs with groups throughout the south and midwest playing a wide variety of music. He's had the chance to perform at world renowned venues, such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Lincoln Center, and alongside great musicians including Clayton Anderson, Joel Frahm, Emmet Cohen, Yasushi Nakamura, Heather French Henry (Miss America 2000), Pat Coil, Charlie Ballantine, John Raymond, Greg Ward, Frank Glover, Mark Buselli, and Kevin Burt
Miles is privileged to have had won numerous awards, including the NYJE Composition Contest twice, which aims to promoting the creation of new, fun, and educational jazz big band music. Miles has also been given the Austin B. Caswell Award, given annually to the best undergraduate music history project at Indiana University, as well as the Outstanding Instrumentalist Award at Kirkwood Community College.
Having recently completed a MM degree at Middle Tennessee State University and BM degree at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Miles is continuing a full-time career composing, performing, and privately teaching in the Nashville area.
Miles is privileged to have had won numerous awards, including the NYJE Composition Contest twice, which aims to promoting the creation of new, fun, and educational jazz big band music. Miles has also been given the Austin B. Caswell Award, given annually to the best undergraduate music history project at Indiana University, as well as the Outstanding Instrumentalist Award at Kirkwood Community College.
Having recently completed a MM degree at Middle Tennessee State University and BM degree at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Miles is continuing a full-time career composing, performing, and privately teaching in the Nashville area.
Jan 3
Don Aliquo Quartet w/ Steve Kovalcheck, Jack Aylor & Ryan Brasley
5:30pm-7:15pm central, $16 in advance, $17 at the door
Saxophonist Don Aliquo Quartet featuring Steve Kovalcheck on guitar, Jack Aylor on bass and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as possessing an “unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Guitarist/composer Steve Kovalcheck hails from Nashville, Tennessee. He has performed with many notable musicians including Joey DeFrancesco, Christian McBride, Louis Hayes, Carmen Bradford, Byron Stripling, Joel Frahm, Ron Miles, McClenty Hunter, Brad Goode, Terrell Stafford, Howard Levy, Todd Parks, Sam Bush, Donald Harrison, Eddie Daniels, Jim White, Pat Bianchi as well as many others. Kovalcheck has performed internationally in China, Romania, France, and Sweden. He holds a B.M. from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and an M.M from the University of Northern Colorado. In 2009, Kovalcheck joined the Jazz Studies faculty at the University of Northern Colorado. He is an active educator, giving master classes and clinics at universities and colleges throughout the United States.
Jack Aylor is a performing bassist in Nashville, Tennessee. During his time in New York, he studied with bassists Ron Carter, Ben Wolfe, Ugonna Okegwo, and James Genus. He has performed with artists including Delfeayo Marsalis, Chester Thompson, Rahsaan Barber, Roland Barber, Oz Noy, Luther Allison, Don Sickler, Dave Kikoski, and Alex Hoffman.
Originating from Chicago, Illinois, drummer, percussionist, educator and composer Ryan Brasley has a career spanning over the last 15 years. Ryan began his musical journey in the Indie/ Alternative rock world as a founding member of The Giving Moon. During this time he had the opportunity to perform across the country working with artists such as Eddie Money, Edgar Winters, and producer Gary Hoey who oversaw the creation of the bands first album. As he grew older, Ryan discovered a passion for jazz and improvised music which lead him to pursue and complete a degree in Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media from the prestigious Eastman School of Music. During his education, Ryan had the privilege of studying under world renowned factually such as Rich Thompson, Gary Versace, Bill Dobbins, Harold Danko, and others. Over the course of his degree, Ryan not only had the chance to perform with world class artists but also had frequent opportunities to teach in the greater Rochester, NY community. Since moving to Nashville, TN in the last 3 years, Ryan has maintained and active schedule teaching from his private studio and freelancing, performing regularly with local artists such as Don Aliquo, Joel Frahm, Pat Coil, Jonathan Wires, as well as being a regular performer at Skulls Rainbow Room.
Don Aliquo’s playing has been described as possessing an “unfailing feel for breath and phrasing" while extremely supple in the addressing of his axe but always zeroed in on what he's describing”.
“Growth” his newest release, explores new territory with intriguing compositions and ample solo space for Aliquo’s inspired improvisations. The eight originals are both complex and open, which shows him expanding his boundaries not only as an instrumentalist and improviser, but also as a composer. The music is an electrifying modern outing with one foot in the future and one in the tradition.
Aliquo has released six solo projects and has worked collaboratively or performed as a sideman on many others. His previous solo cd “Sun and Shield” features veteran jazz masters Rufus Reid, Jim McNeely, and the dynamic Obed Calvaire.
Notable collaborations include quartet recordings with Roger Humphries and the late Beegie Adair. He also has recorded with his mentor, notable Pittsburgh tenor stalwart, Don Aliquo Sr. on the MCG label. Don has performed in concerts and recordings with many world-class artists including Gary Burton, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Roger Humphries, Harold Danko, Adam Nussbaum, Donald Brown, Pete Christlieb, Scott Robinson, and Bobby Shew. Don is Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. He is a Selmer and Vandoren artist.
Guitarist/composer Steve Kovalcheck hails from Nashville, Tennessee. He has performed with many notable musicians including Joey DeFrancesco, Christian McBride, Louis Hayes, Carmen Bradford, Byron Stripling, Joel Frahm, Ron Miles, McClenty Hunter, Brad Goode, Terrell Stafford, Howard Levy, Todd Parks, Sam Bush, Donald Harrison, Eddie Daniels, Jim White, Pat Bianchi as well as many others. Kovalcheck has performed internationally in China, Romania, France, and Sweden. He holds a B.M. from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and an M.M from the University of Northern Colorado. In 2009, Kovalcheck joined the Jazz Studies faculty at the University of Northern Colorado. He is an active educator, giving master classes and clinics at universities and colleges throughout the United States.
Jack Aylor is a performing bassist in Nashville, Tennessee. During his time in New York, he studied with bassists Ron Carter, Ben Wolfe, Ugonna Okegwo, and James Genus. He has performed with artists including Delfeayo Marsalis, Chester Thompson, Rahsaan Barber, Roland Barber, Oz Noy, Luther Allison, Don Sickler, Dave Kikoski, and Alex Hoffman.
Originating from Chicago, Illinois, drummer, percussionist, educator and composer Ryan Brasley has a career spanning over the last 15 years. Ryan began his musical journey in the Indie/ Alternative rock world as a founding member of The Giving Moon. During this time he had the opportunity to perform across the country working with artists such as Eddie Money, Edgar Winters, and producer Gary Hoey who oversaw the creation of the bands first album. As he grew older, Ryan discovered a passion for jazz and improvised music which lead him to pursue and complete a degree in Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media from the prestigious Eastman School of Music. During his education, Ryan had the privilege of studying under world renowned factually such as Rich Thompson, Gary Versace, Bill Dobbins, Harold Danko, and others. Over the course of his degree, Ryan not only had the chance to perform with world class artists but also had frequent opportunities to teach in the greater Rochester, NY community. Since moving to Nashville, TN in the last 3 years, Ryan has maintained and active schedule teaching from his private studio and freelancing, performing regularly with local artists such as Don Aliquo, Joel Frahm, Pat Coil, Jonathan Wires, as well as being a regular performer at Skulls Rainbow Room.
Jody Nardone Trio
8:00pm-10:15pm central, $21 in advance, $22 at the door
"Thanks to a dynamic style that can shift from the whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner, Nardone has emerged as one of Nashville's preeminent jazz pianists. His reputation is also blowing up nationwide, where he is receiving raves in Downbeat and Jazziz for his role in the Crimson Jazz Trio, a Nashville-to-L.A. combo led by former King Crimson drummer Ian Wallace and former Vital Information bassist Tim Landers."
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
-Michael McCall, Nashville Scene
Nigel Cathéy - Rudy's Groove Experience
11:00pm-1:00am central, $10 at the door
Nashville—get ready. On January 3rd, Rudy’s turns into the kind of late-night room where the lights get low, the groove gets heavy, and the music starts speaking its own language. Trumpeter Nigel Cathey is stepping in with a band that’s ready to shake the walls and lift the ceiling all in one breath.
They’re diving deep into the worlds of Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, and Roy Hargrove—the masters who blurred the lines between jazz, funk, fusion, and pure spirit. Expect simmering grooves, wide-open harmony, and the kind of fire that only shows up when the clock hits late and the players hit that zone.
With Daniel Kuk laying out warm colors on keyboard, Jackson Mayhall holding down the heartbeat on bass, and Daniel Ferreira pushing the pocket from behind the kit, this quartet is built for lift-off.
This isn’t just a set—it’s a session. A vibe. A night that could only happen at Rudy’s. This explosive quartet is ready to bring the groove and transcend. Be in the room.
They’re diving deep into the worlds of Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, and Roy Hargrove—the masters who blurred the lines between jazz, funk, fusion, and pure spirit. Expect simmering grooves, wide-open harmony, and the kind of fire that only shows up when the clock hits late and the players hit that zone.
With Daniel Kuk laying out warm colors on keyboard, Jackson Mayhall holding down the heartbeat on bass, and Daniel Ferreira pushing the pocket from behind the kit, this quartet is built for lift-off.
This isn’t just a set—it’s a session. A vibe. A night that could only happen at Rudy’s. This explosive quartet is ready to bring the groove and transcend. Be in the room.