June 6, 2024 5:00-7:00PM Pop-Ups at The Portal: Gretchen Elise Interactive Jazz-Soul Set & Open Jam

 

 A performance and open mic jam led by Gretchen Elise during the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll on Thursday, June 6th.

Gretchen Elise 

Gretchen Elise's original music is engaging and interactive. Join her for a melodic journey between jazz and hip hop, where you may help sing the hook, play percussion from the crowd, or just relax to the fusion of styles and the steady groove. Rooted in Philly with international flavor, Gretchen’s positive energy is unmatched. The second set will feature an open mic vibe.

Check out Gretchen's music on her website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

The full schedule is below. In inclement weather, events will be inside Renata’s Kitchen at the same location. More details can be found at: www.universitycity.org/trolleyportal or www.gretchenelise.com/gigs.

June 6, 2024 7:30-10:30PM Quinteto Latin Jazz at The Black Squirrel Club

 

Trombonist Larry Toft, one of Philadelphia's most versatile performers, has assembled this talented group of highly accomplished musicians; all veterans of Philadelphia's thriving latin music scene. His Quinteto de Latino Jazz comes to Black Squirrel Club for our first exploration into the rhythms and vibes of latin infused jazz music--or is it jazz infused latin music? Whatever you choose to call it-- this horn and percussion driven band will open your ears and get your body moving! Can't wait to hear this music in our space!

Get some tickets now! Link in bio!

This all-star lineup features:

Larry Toft (trombone)
Papo Buda (congas)
Jimmy Lopez (piano)
Adam Hershberger (trumpet)
Rick Rodriguez (bongos)

Tickets: $15 + fee

Black Squirrel Club

1049 Sarah St.

Philadelphia, Pa

June 6, 2024 7:00 & 9:00PM Pablo Batista Latin Jazz with Guest Josh Lawrence

 

PABLO BATISTA LATIN JAZZ 

& Josh Lawrence

-Thursday June 6 | Showtime 7 & 9 pm

Master percussionist Pablo Batista has performed, recorded and toured internationally for 30 years with some of the biggest stars in rhythm and blues, jazz, Latin, pop and gospel. 

He will be joined by Josh Lawrence, a trumpeter, composer, bandleader, and recording artist, has earned critical acclaim and is acknowledged as a "preeminent voice among young composers" (Downbeat 2017). Throughout his musical career, marked by numerous accolades and prestigious commissions, Lawrence has made significant contributions to the jazz continuum.

 Pablo and Josh are back to set the stage on fire with his Latin jazz groove! 

Tickets

South Jazz Kitchen

600 N. Broad St.

Philadelphia, Pa

June 5, 2024 11:30-2:00AM Odunde on the Plaza: A Preview of the Odunde Festival

 

Dance performance by Kulu Mele African Dance and Drum Ensemble

DiY crafts by Odunde 365

Live art by Oluwafemi

Comcast Plaza

1701 JFK Blvd

June 6, 2024 5:00-7:00PM Pop-Ups at The Portal: Gretchen Elise

 

Thursday, June 6th from 5:00pm - 7:00pm  (During the Dollar Stroll!)

Gretchen Elise 

Gretchen Elise's original music is engaging and interactive. Join her for a melodic journey between jazz and hip hop, where you may help sing the hook, play percussion from the crowd, or just relax to the fusion of styles and the steady groove. Rooted in Philly with international flavor, Gretchen’s positive energy is unmatched. The second set will feature an open mic vibe.

Check out Gretchen's music on her website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

Trolley Portal Gardens

3940 Baltimore Ave.

Philadelphia, Pa  19104

June 5, 2024 6:00-8:00PM The Arts Affair at Hamilton Hall

 

Join us on Wednesday, June 5 at Hamilton Hall, University of the Arts for PVLA's annual fundraising extravaganza, The Arts Affair! This years party will feature an eclectic array of live performances, visual art, interactive artistic experiences, and delicous food and drink. We will also celebrate the 2024 Volunteer Lawyer, Law Firm of the Year, and PVLA Award for Exceptional Service winners.

Hosted by Cookie Diorio of The Bearded Ladies Cabaret and featuring:

• TSLEEVELESS
• American Queen TJD aka TIFF Davis
• Shekhinah B and band
• Dream Poet for Hire
• Chuck Schultz
• Debbie Schafer aka "Art Girl"
• Mix Master Next

Proceeds from The Arts Affair go towards ensuring that PVLA can continue to provide pro bono legal services to low income artists and small arts organizations. Get your dancing shoes on for a great cause!

Tickets $45 - $200

Hamilton Hall @ University of the Arts

320 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19102

June 4, 2024 7:00PM Not So Latin Concerts:BPM

 

INTRODUCING B.P.M. @NOTSOLATIN!! Tuesday June 4th!! Eli Pace, Tate Berkey, and Jake Miller join forces to create the power trio known as B.P.M. This Jazz Rock/Funk fusion trio will be presenting the works of Adam Rogers, Oz Noy, Bill Laswell, and an assortment of original arrangements and music.

Doors at 7, show at 730pm. See you there

June 3, 2024 4:00PM Los Bomberos de la Calle at Roxborough Library

 

Roxsborough Library

6245 Ridge Ave.

Philadelphia, Pa  19128

June 2, 2024 7:00PM Not Big Band Concerts: Reed Bodenstein's Stormchasers

 

FIRST SHOW OF JUNE!!! THE STORMCHASERS ARE BACK!! Sunday, June 2nd we welcome Pianist Reed Bodenstein’s Stormchasers to the 29th edition of notsobigband! They are the world’s PREMIERE meteorological theme ensemble playing the originals and arrangements of Reed and his bandmates. You don’t want to miss it!!

Doors 7pm, show at 730

June 2, 2024 10:00AM-5:00PM Free First Sunday at the Barnes: Khmer Performing Arts and Culture

 

It’s the first Sunday of the month, which means free admission at the Barnes! Visitors of all ages will enjoy storytime, art activities, and our popular scavenger hunt, plus performances of Cambodian dance from Khmer Performing Arts and Culture (KPAC). Learn more about how this group uses music and dance to uphold Cambodian traditions in Philadelphia. Includes access to the first-floor collection galleries.

Registration opens Thursday, May 30, at 10am.

10am – 4pm

Art Activities

Join us for art activities and a scavenger hunt. Perfect for the whole family—ages 2 and up.

10:30 – 11am; 11:15 – 11:45am

Storytime

This month’s vibrant storytelling sessions teach about cultural traditions from around the world.

1 – 1:45pm & 2:30 – 3:15pm

Dance Performances: Philly KPAC

In the heart of Philadelphia’s Cambodia Town, Khmer Performing Arts and Culture (KPAC) emerged in 2019 with just five dedicated members. Today, the group empowers Khmer youth to reclaim their identity through performing arts. Don’t miss dance performances by Reaksmey Sareypheap Khmer Dance Troupe, Indra's Artistic Creations, and the Cambodian Fine Arts Council presented by Philly KPAC.

LOCATION

2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19130
215.278.7000

Get directions

June 1, 2024 12:00-4:00PM APM Festival de la Caña

 

PLEASE JOIN US AT OUR 20th ANNUAL SUGAR CANE FESTIVAL!!

Featuring the music of Zurdo Mezquita y Su Banda, Los Bomberos de la Calle, y Los Domiantes

The 20th Annual Sugar Cane Festival is set for Saturday, June 1st from noon to 4:00 PM at 6th Street & Susquehanna Avenue.

Come pick up information and materials to help you and your family, listen to some great music, and eat some great food!

We will also have a children’s area with face painting, balloon animals, and DIY carnival games, and our second Domino Tournament!

The Festival honors the historic significance of the sugarcane crop for generations of Puerto Ricans and recognizes the sugarcane workers who migrated from the Island to Philadelphia to work in the refinery. We will again have pavas and sugarcane to hand out to Festival attendees. We will also have Guarapo! Come early to get yours!

June 1, 2024 2:00-4:00PM Omo Kulu Mele Youth Concert at The Performance Garage

 

Experience the Rhythms of Omo Kulu Mele! Discover more than just dance and music with Omo Kulu Mele! Our vibrant community of artists and performers transcends cultural boundaries, creating an enriching experience for all. Here’s why you won’t want to miss out:

1. Diverse Lessons: Omo Kulu Mele offers more than just dance steps. Former students have launched professional dance careers, while others have delved into their cultural roots. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a curious beginner, there’s something for everyone.
2. Self-Confidence and Collaboration: Our classes empower dancers and drummers alike. Gain self-confidence as you master new moves and learn the art of cooperation and collaboration. Omo Kulu Mele is where passion meets community.
3. Voices of Ancestors: The name says it all. “Omo” means children in Yoruba, and “Kulu Mele” echoes the voices of our ancestors. Join us as we honor tradition while embracing innovation.
4. Journey Through Guinea: Get ready for an unforgettable journey! Omo Kulu Mele will transport you to Guinea, West Africa, through their mesmerizing end of the year performance. From traditional dances to the latest Afrobeat and AfroFusion moves, our stage comes alive with energy and rhythm.

Don’t Miss Out! Book your tickets now and be part of the Omo Kulu Mele experience. Let the drums guide you and let your spirit soar! Learn more at kulumele.org

Performance Garage

1515 Brandywine Street Philadelphia, PA 19130

TicketsTickets: $23.18 includes fee

May 31, 2024 7:00PM Not So Funny Live Comedy Series: Funhouse with Lauren Ellis

 

Friday May 31st

Notsofunny Comedy Series

Funhouse

with

Lauren Ellis

The Notsofunny comedy series continues with the second edition of Funhouse brought to you by Lauren Ellis and “ghost producer” Benny Feldman @feldfrog featuring the finest comedians from Philadelphia and New York City!

Mark those calendars, funhouse nation- the show critics (my best friends) are calling the best indie comedy show in philadelphia is back with yet another all star lineup on friday, may 31 

featuring the beautiful minds of
jules posner (@julesyboy_)
zoe dixon (@thezoedixon)
rachel peters (@rachelpetiters)
nick balsirow (@goonghiskhan)
ibhan kulkarni (@doublelagaan)
katherine gorham (@katherine_gorham_)
and sasha von didkovsky (@sashavond)

take the night off work and join us! nothing matters 

———

Doors open at 7pm / performances begin at 7:30pm unless otherwise noted.

$10-20 suggested donation.

We hope to see you there!

1440 W. Ritner St.

May 30, 2024 12:00-2:00PM Lancaster Avenue Jazz and Arts Festival Pop-Up Concert at Drexel Square

 

Join us for the second Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Festival Community Pop-Up event on Thursday 5/30 at Noon! We will be at Drexel Square, 3001 Market Street with live jazz music, great local food trucks, and retail & craft vendors!

We are grateful to TD Bank for being our Lancaster Avenue Jazz Festival Community Pop-Up Presenting Sponsor! Come enjoy a beautiful day with us!

Drexel Square

3001 Market St.

Free!

May 30, 2024 5:00-7:00PM Pop-Ups at the Portal: AfrVbz & Engoma Enteera

 

AfrVbz & Engoma Enteera 

West African dance party meets East African traditional music. Rasaq of AfrVbz will lead the crowd in an Afrobeats dance class for any age and experience level. In parallel, Orchestra 2001 will perform live music from its ENGOMA ENTEERA series, featuring small ensemble pieces by Justinian Tamusuza, a composer based in Uganda. Justinian writes music for western classical instruments using techniques and polyrhythms that marry classical with traditional Kigandan folk music of East Africa. 

Get excited by visiting the AfrVbz Instagram and Facebook pages. 

Trolley Portal Gardens

40th St and Baltimore Ave.

Philadelphia, Pa 19104

May 28, 2024 7:00PM Not So Latin Concerts: Dick Oatts and Mike Cemprola /The Sonic Architects

 

ANOTHER EXCITING DOUBLE HEADER @NOTSOLATIN!!! Tuesday, May 28th!

We start with the unbelievable saxophone duo of Dick Oatts and Mike Cemprola!! Two of the greatest saxophonist around are sure to put on an incredible show backed by some of Philly’s finest. THEN

Stick around for clarinetist Benjamin Cousins & the Sonic Architects - Motivated by the transformative power of music, with his inaugural project, Cousins seeks to create diverse sonic spaces that reflect his own lived experiences, offering reminders of the past and visions of optimism for our collective future.

Doors at 7, show at 730. See you there

May 26, 2024 7:00PM Not So Latin Concerts: Jake Kaplan's Lichen Anatomy Big Band

 

LICHEN ANATOMY @NOTSOBIGBAND!!! Jake Kaplan and Lichen Anatomy grace the Notsolatin stage in the 28th edition of Notsobigband. Lichen Anatomy is an 11 piece large ensemble which approaches performance through the lense of Lichen, a symbiotic organism which thrives through interdependence. The group features creative compositions designed to maximize expression, individuality, emotion.

Doors at 7pm, show at 730pm.

May 25, 2024 7:00-10:30PM National Tap Dance Day Celebration at The Black Squirrel

 

An evening of original tap dance, jazz music and vocals featuring Tim Brey, Stephan Burse, Sam Harris and Pamela Hetherington. Bring your shoes for the closing shim sham and community hang.

TicketsTickets: $15 + $1.75 fee

Black Squirrel Club

1029 Sarah Street

Philadelphia, PA

Doors: 6:30PM

Music: 7:00PM

May 25, 2024 6:00-10:00PM Snacktime and Nick Greeley and the Operators at Spruce St. Harbor Park

 

Join us for FREE concerts at Spruce Street Harbor Park on select Saturdays beginning May 25. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the showtime is 7 p.m. All ages are welcome. The concerts are free and open to the public.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

301 S. Columbus Blvd

Philadelphia, PA

Come early to enjoy unique bites and sips from our outstanding vendors before, during, and after each performance.

May 25, 2024 8:00PM Checkpoint 303 and Jad Atoui in Concert at The Rotunda

 

Join us at the Rotunda on May 25 for an event featuring performances by Checkpoint 303 and Jad Atoui. Doors open at 8 PM at The Rotunda located at 4014 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104. Curated by Leyya Mona Tawil.

It is with great anticipation that we bring together artists from Montreal and Beirut for a night of powerful sonic compositions that point us towards liberation and new ways of activating music. Using archives and field recordings predominantly from Palestine and various countries throughout the Arab world, Checkpoint 303 constructs soundscapes that weave cinematic audio with experimental sound processing, breakbeats and glitch. Jad Atoui will be performing "Purge", a solo piece that reflects on his recent experimentations with modular synth, waves of galactical pads driven by distorted rhythmic bass engines and energetic noise. 

Grab your tickets here.

May 24, 2024 8:00-11:00PM Sun Ra Arkestra & Marshall Allen 100th Birthday Celebration at Union Transfer

 

Ars Nova Workshop celebrates the 100th birthday of Maestro Marshall Allen with a once-in-a-century performance by the Sun Ra Arkestra at Union Transfer on Friday, May 24.

Tickets: $39.70 including fees

Doors at 7:00PM

Music at 8:00PM

Union Transfer

Address: 1026 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Phone: (215) 232-2100

May 23, 2024 5:00-7:00PM Pop-Ups at the Portal: MIC'd Up Allstars

 

MIC’d Up (Music Industry Classrooms) is an artistic, community-based initiative that connects all-star Philly DJs, producers and musicians with the next generation of talent – Philadelphia’s District students! Be prepared for an All-Star cast of MIC’d Up students to present an engaging mix of timeless music styles. The second set will feature an open mic vibe. 

Trolley Portal Gardens

3940 Baltimore Ave

Philadelphia, Pa 19104

May 23, 2024 7:00PM Not So Latin Concerts: Arbol Azul and Bronson Tennis and Caro Cancion

 

CARO CANCIÓN AND BRONSON TENNIS OPENING FOR ARBUL AZUL!!!

Arbol Azul is a brand new project from Jessy Pollack (USA) and Ariel Zafra (ARG), an acoustic duo of vocals, piano and guitar that blends folkloric traditions from each of their home countries. Their 15 years of collaboration in the eclectic music scene of Buenos Aires have helped them create these new, soulful, original compositions. Drawing from their mixed backgrounds, their songs offer a heartfelt journey in both English and Spanish, through thoughtful songwriting and cross-cultural resonance.

May 23rd keeps getting better! Bronson and Caro’s wide array of musical styles present a mesmerizing musical journey that showcases the richness and diversity of the Americas. With authenticity at their core, they breathe life into each genre they embrace.

Doors at 7, show at 730. See you there.…

May 21, 2024 7:00PM Not So Latin Concerts: The Saturn Quartet plu Chris Coyle and Matt Davis

 

A NOT-TO-MISS DOUBLE BILL @NOTSOLATIN!!! The Saturn Quartet makes its Philadelphia debut on Tuesday, May 21st! Led by bassist Robin Sherman, this quintet is sure to provide an electrifying evening of pure melody & fearless improvisation. Following the Saturn Quartet is bassist Chris Coyle plus Matt Davis.

Doors at 7pm, show at 730. See you there

Robin Sherman- bass

Ricardo Pascal- saxophones

Brendan Polk- piano

Gerald Watkins Jr - drums

May 20, 2024 8:00PM-12:00AM Siempre Salsa Philly Presents: Latin Night at Center Bar

 

Siempre Salsa Philly presents Latin Night at Center Bar! 

Experience a night full of live music, salsa dancing, and mucho fun in the heart of Live! Casino & Hotel - featuring a live performance from Orquesta Del Barrio.

No cover

Free Parking

 Live Casino & Hotel Philadelphia

900 Packer Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19148