Picks of the Week: Nov. 30 – Dec. 6

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Demetra George

- Nov. 30. (Mon.)  Gala Opera Night.  Demetra George and Ralph Cato perform “Villains and Heroines at the Opera,” selections from Puccini, Verdi and Strauss.  Frank Fetta is music director.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 30. (Mon.)  Slide FX  Trombone Tentet.  Not quite enough trombones to play “76 Trombones,” but enough to produce a surprisingly appealing array of sounds and swing.   Steamers. (714) 871-8800. http://www.steamerscafe.com

- Dec. 1. (Tues.)  “Christmas in Ireland” The veteran Irish ensemble Danu combines with a choir to bring an Irish Christmas celebration –An Lollaig in Eirnn – to Southland audiences.  The Cerritos Center. (562) 916-8501.

- Dec. 1. (Tues.)  Gordon Goodwin Big Phat Band.  Goodwin’s band is that rarity – a big jazz ensemble with steady personnel delivering performances that match well-rehearsed craftsmanship with inventive playing and imaginative arrangements.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Dec. 1. (Tues.)  Henry Franklin Quartet.  Bassist “Skipper” Franklin plays with most of the hard driving ensemble from his recently released CD, “Home Cookin’”: Azar Lawrence, tenor saxophone, Theo Saunders, piano, Ramon Banda, drums.  Charlie O’s.   (818) 989-3110.

Hilary Kole

- Dec. 1 & 2. (Tues. & Wed.)  Hilary Kole. The critically praised New York jazz singer makes her West Coast debut, backed by the sterling ensemble of Alan Broadbent, piano, Larry Koonse, guitar, Tom Warrington, bass and Kendall Kay, drums.  . Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Dec. 2. (Wed.)  Peter Marshall sings “TIME WAS: Music of the Thirties and Forties.”  No Hollywood Squares in this evening of delightful musical nostalgia.  Upstairs at Vitellos.  (818) 769-0905.

- Dec. 2. (Wed.)  Judy Wexler. Gifted with a smoky sound, thoughtful phasing and a solid sense of rhythm, Wexler applies those qualities to her ever-intriguing jazz interpretations.  Café 322.  (626) 836-5787.

- Dec. 3. (Thurs.)  Tom Rainier.  With Trey Henry, bass and Ralph Humphrey, drums, the trio serves as the rhythm section for “Dancing with the Stars.”  But here they are, in a very different setting, doing their own thing.  Upstairs at Vitellos. (818) 769-0905.

- Dec. 3, 4 & 5. (Thurs, Fri. & Sat.)  Charlie Hunter.  The adventurous guitarist brings his cross-genre style to a pair of L.A. appearances.  Thurs., Saint Rocke, Hermosa Beach. 310-372-0035.  Fri. & Sat. The Mint.  323-954-9400.

Gaea Schell

- Dec. 3. (Thurs.)  West Coast Left Coast: Leonard Slatkin with the Kronos Quartet and the Los Angeles Philharmonic perform works by Gladsmith, Bates, Waxman and Newman in the continuing series.  Disney Hall.

- Dec. 4. (Fri.)  Gaea Schell Trio.  A hard-swinging, inventive pianist, Schell brings the qualities of an instrumentalist to her laid-back, but always intriguing vocals. This time out, she celebrates the release of her new CD, “After the Rain.” Café 322. (626) 836-5787.

- Dec. 4 & 5. (Fri. & Sat.)  5^th Annual Fil-Am Jazzfest.  Any original doubts about the reality of Filipino jazz have been thoroughly removed by these stirring annual events.  This year’s featured artists include Charmaine Clamor, Mon David, Tateng Katendig, Abe Lagrimas, Angelo Pizzaro, Sandra Viray and a special appearance by Eddie Katendig.   . Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Dec. 5. (Sat.)  The Nutcracker Suite.  The State Street Ballet Company brings an unusual slant to Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic with a newly choreographed production featuring Art Deco sets and 1930’s costumes..  2 p.m. and 7 p.m.  CSUN Performing Arts Center.  (818) 677-5768.

- Dec. 5. (Sat.)  Carol Welsman. Canadian pianist/singer Welsman illuminates songs associated with (or written by) Peggy Lee in her new album, “I Like Men.”   Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

Herb Alpert & Lani Hall

- Dec. 5. (Sat.)  David Ornette Cherry and Organic Roots.  Following in the footsteps of his father, Don Cherry, and his namesake, Ornette Coleman, Cherry’s envelope-stretching music also embraces eclectic aspects of cultures from around the globe.  World Stage Performance Gallery.  (323) 293-2451.

- Dec. 5. (Sat.)  Herb Alpert & Lani Hall. Show biz power couple Alpert and Hall also happen to be imaginative musical artists.  Performing selections from their recent album, “Anything Goes,” Alpert’s trumpet and Hall’s vocals make an appealingly intimate jazz marriage. Orange County Performing Arts Center. (714) 556-2787.

- Dec. 5 & 6. (Sat. & Sun.)  Lisa Mezzacappa.  San Francisco bassist/composer Mezzacappa says her music lives “at the intersection of music and composition.”  She brings her imaginative musical perceptions to a pair of Southland performances. Sat.: Café Metropole, / Sun: Eagle Rock Center for the Arts.

- Dec. 6. (Sun.) Inner Voices. “Christmas A Cappella Brunch.” L.A.’s most fascinating vocal ensemble – musically, harmonically and stylistically – present their annual look at the rich, creative potential of the familiar songs of Christmas.  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

San Francisco

Dec. 2 – 6. (Wed. – Sun.)  The Taj Mahal Trio.  The blues legend displays his inimitable guitar and voice in the intimate frame work of a trio.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

New  York

- Dec. 1. (Tues.)  Jackie Ryan.  Praised from every direction, Ryan’s extraordinarily versatile voice, her buoyant swing and gifted story telling abilities will be backed by a pair of superb instrumentalists — trumpeter Jeremy Pelt and saxophonist Eric Alexander.  Birdland. (212) 581-3080.

Anat Cohen

Dec. 1 – 6. (Tues. – Sun.)  Anat Cohen Quartet.  In addition to her powerful – and often funky – tenor saxophone work, Cohen is bringing vital new life to the too-often under-appreciated jazz clarinet.  She performs with Howard Alden, guitar,  Carlos Enriquez, bass and Herlin Riley, drums.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

- Dec. 2. (Wed.)  Bob Brookmeyer celebrates his 80^th birthday with the Eastman New Jazz Ensemble.  Kilbourn Hall at the Eastman School of \Music.  Rochester, N.Y.   (585) 454.2100.

- Dec. 2 – 5. (Wed. – Sat.)  Christine Ebersole and Billy Stritch.  “A Town and Country Christmas.” A pair of musical theatre and cabaret veterans come together for an evening of inspired song.  Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.

- Dec. 3 – 6. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Chano Dominguez Flamenco Quartet perform “The Flamenco Side of Kind of Blue” – a fascinating musical concept that will be the final concert series of the Voll-Damm Barcelona International Jazz Festival,  The Jazz Standard.  http://www.jazzstandard.net (212) 447-7733.

- Dec. 4 – 6. (Fri. – Sun.)  Madeleine Peyroux.  “Remembering Lady Day: 50 Years.” Given the Holiday qualities that are such a distinct part of the Peyroux style, this should be among the more intriguing live performances of recent memory.  Blue Note.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

Sonny Rollins

- Dec. 6. (Sun.)  Sonny Rollins.  The icon of the tenor saxophone appears in a benefit Concert for Pete Seeger’s Clearwater.  He’s backed by his regular ensemble: Clifton Anderson, trombone; Bobby Broom, guitar; Bob Cranshaw, bass; Kobie Watkins, drums and Victor See-Yuen, percussion. Tarrytown Music Hall or call 877-840-0457.

- Dec. 6. (Sun.)  Alessandra Belloni.  “The Voyage of the Black Madonna,” written and directed by Belloni, with music composed and arranged by John La Barbera.  The work features healing chants, ritual drumming and dances from Southern Italy performed by Alessandra Belloni with La Barbera playing guitars, mandolin, and Susan Eberenz playing flute, piccolo and recorders.  St. Mary’s Church, 521 W. 126 St. (212) 864-4013.

Picks of the Week. Nov. 24 – 29

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Bob Mintzer

- Nov. 24. (Tues.)  Bob Mintzer’s Big Band.  Mintzer’s a high visibility saxophonist with the Yellowjackets, but he’s also a first rate big band arranger and composer.  All those skills will be on display in this rare appearance with a full ensemble.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 24. (Tues.)  John Pisano.  “Brazil Night” — with Federico Ramos, guitar, Jose Marino, bass, Enzo Todesco, drums — offers an entertaining variation on Pisano’s weekly Guitar Night programs.  Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

- Nov. 24. (Tues.)  Jon Mayer Trio and Pete Christlieb.  Pianist Mayer and saxophonist Christlieb are stellar members of the Southland’s world class array of jazz artists.  They perform with Chris Connor, bass, Roy McCurdy, drums.  Charlie O’s. (818) 989-3110.

April Williams

- Nov. 25. (Wed.)  April Williams & Friends.  “The Night Before Thanksgiving Hang” – a laid-back evening of briskly swinging jazz to kick off the holiday weekend.  With April Williams, vocals, Andy Langham, piano, Dave Stone, bass, Don Williams, drums and Bob Sheppard, reeds. Upstairs at Vitellos.   (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 25. (Wed.)  The Banda Brothers. Latin jazz meets Thanksgiving at the Brothers’ 10^th Annual Turkey Bash. Steamers. (714) 871-8800.

- Nov. 27 & 28. (Fri. & Sat.)  Jack Sheldon Big Band.  Sheldon celebrates his birthday with an evening of his inimitable trumpet and vocals, backed by his swinging collection of big band all-stars.  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 28. (Sat.)  Dr. Richard Allen Williams Quintet.  A physician and a college professor, Williams nonetheless finds time to play the trumpet with probing musical inventiveness. (818) 728-8400.  Spazio.

- Nov. 29. (Sun.)  Alan Broadbent and Pat Senatore Duo. Broadbent’s piano playing, with its rich compositional foundation and lyrical touch blend superbly with the steady foundation and solid swing of bassist Senatore.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

Tuck & Patti

- Nov. 27 – 29. (Fri. – Sun.)  Joe Sample and Lalah Hathaway. The veteran pianist and founder of the Jazz Crusaders reaches across the generations to musically blend with singer/songwriter (and daughter of Donny Hathaway) Lalah Hathaway. Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

- Nov. 27 – 29. (Fri. – Sun.)  Tuck & Patti. The guitar and vocal duo’s deep musical intimacy has been producing irresistible sounds for decades. Yoshi’s  San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

- Nov. 27 -  29.  (Fri. – Sun.)  Loretta Devine:” Night Devine.” One of the original stars of Dreamgirls, Devine’s acting career has embraced a wide array of films (among them, Waiting To Exhale, Crash) and television roles (including Grey’s Anatomy and Boston Public).  Here’s a rare chance to hear this dynaimc singer in an up close club setting.   The Rrazz Room at the Hotel Nikko.  (415) 394-1189.

New York

- Nov. 24. (Tues.)  Terese Genecco and Her Little Big Band.  Genecco’s quest to keep the jaunty rhythms of swing alive is enhanced by the guest star presence of veteran trumpeter Lew Soloff.  Iridium.   (212) 582.2121.

- Nov. 24 – 28. (Tues. – Sat.)  The New York Voices celebrate their 20^th anniversary with a collection of lush vocal harmonies and upbeat swing.  Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

Renee Rosnes

- Nov. 24 – 29. (Tues. – Sun.)  Renee Rosnes Quartet. A musicians’ musician, pianist Rosnes has played with almost everybody over the past twenty years.  But she still doesn’t receive the acknowledgement her impressive talents deserve  She performs with Jimmy Green, sax, Sean Smith, bass, Lewis Nash, drums.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

- Nov. 24, 25 and 26 – 29. (Tues, Wed. and Fri. – Sun.)  Maria Schneider Orchestra. Schneider’s compositions continue to expand the palette of the large jazz ensemble, and they’re performed by an A-list musical aggregation.  The Jazz Standard.  (212) 447-7733.

Dave Brubeck

- Nov. 24 – 28. (Tues. – Sat.) Bucky Pizzarelli/Ken Peplowski Quintet.  Mainsream jazz at its best, with the master of the seven string guitar and the guy who’s helping keep the jazz clarinet alive.  Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola.  (212) 258-9595.

- Nov. 27 – 29. (Fri. – Sun.)  Dave Brubeck Quartet. A rare opportunity to hear one of jazz’s iconic figures, in action in a club setting.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

Picks of the Week: Nov. 16 – 22

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Nov. 16. (Mon.) Devon Wendell, Kevin Kelly and Tyler Kidd.    Blues on the loose, featuring iRoM’s own “Doc” Wendell playing electric and acoustic guitars and harmonica.  A chance to hear the reviewer in action.   The Viper Room.  (310) 652-7869.

- Nove. 16. (Mon.)  Elvis Schoenberg’s Orchestre Surreal.  Schoenberg’s large collective of L.A. studio players claims to perform music that “fuses classical, jazz, rock, hip hop, world music and just about anything else.”  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

Charlie O

- Nov. 17. (Tues.)  Remembering  Charlie O.  The Bill Cunliffe Trio.  Charlie Ottaviano passed away a year ago.  But his widow Jo-Ann has made sure that the club that bears his name continues to be the Southland’s ultimate jazz bar and restaurant, presenting world-class music seven nights a week.  There will undoubtedly be a few tears and a lot of jamming taking place to celebrate his memory.  Charlie O’s. (818) 989-3110.

- Nov. `17. (Tues) Charlie Haden Family & Friends.  Rambling Boy.  Bassist Haden, one of the jazz world’s most versatile artists, recalls his early years in country and bluegrass music.  Family members, bluegrass players and Jack Black join the party.  Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

- Nov. 19. (Thurs.)  John Altman.  Sixtieth Birthday Party. Alto saxophonist/composer/arranger and humorist Altman celebrates a milestone birthday. Charlie O’s.  (818) 989-3110.

Lainie Kazan

- Nov. 19. (Thurs.)  Thom Rotella Quartet.  Guitarist Rotella performs with the sterling backing of pianist John Beasley, bassist Kevin Brandon and drummer Roy McCurdy.  Crown Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge.  (310) 642-7500.

- Nov. 19 – 21. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Lainie Kazan.  The star of stage, screen, television and beyond is also a jazz-oriented, always engaging vocalist.  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 20. (Fri.)  Graham Dechter Trio performs with guest star trumpeter Gilbert Castellanos.  Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

- Nov. 20 – 21. (Fri. & Sat.)  Joey DeFrancesco Trio.  The master of the B-3 keeps alive the tradition of big, blues-driven, irresistibly swinging jazz organ music. Steamers. (714) 871-8800.

- Nov. 21. (Sat.)  The Kronos Quartet, Terry Riley, Matmos and Michael Einziger.  “Eureka” The opening event in the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s West Coast, Left Coast Festival features four artists whose skills were honed in the cultural environment of California.  The evening’s works are frequently interrlated, especially during a combined version of a piece titled “For Terry Riley,”  performed by the Kronos Quartet and the electronica of Matmos.  Walt Disney Concert Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

- Nov. 21. (Sat.)  Tommy Tune and the Manhattan Rhythm Kings: “Steps In Time” Dancer, choreographer and director Tune recalls some of the classic, high-stepping moments in Broadway musical history.  CSUN Performing Arts Center (818) 677-5768.

- Nov. 21. (Sat.)  Bernadette Peters. The Broadway musical star, who can command a stage with a sultry phrase and a playful twist of her hips, stars in the 15^th Anniversary Celebration of the Thousand Oaks Civic Plaza.   (805) 449-2700.

Hubert Laws

- Nov. 21. (Sat.)  Hubert Laws, Larry Koonse and Tierney Sutton. The Jazz Bakery continues its Moveable Feast series of concerts with a Holiday Celebration featuring veteran flutist Laws, versatile guitarist Koonse and jazz vocalist Sutton.    Fowler Museum.  UCLA.   (310) 271-9039

- Nov. 21. (Sat.)  Bob Sheppard.  Name the style you want to hear from a saxophonist, and Sheppard can deliver it in A-class style.  This time out, he’s doing things his own way, backed by the sturdy support of bassist Pat Senatore’s Trio.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 21. (Sat.)  Hans Groiner & Larry Goldings Quartet.  Here’s an intriguing two-fer.  Pianist and humorist Groiner, making his West Coast debut is allegedly a “Thelonious Monk scholar.”   Goldings is a solid talent, one of the Southland’s most imaginative keyboardists.  The Red Carpet Jazz Series.  Upstairs at Vitellos.  (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 22. (Sun.) Suezenne Fordham Chamber Jazz LA. Fordham’s expands upon the lineage of avant-garde jazz reaching back to the ‘60s.  South Pasadena Music Center and Conservatory.  http://www.southpasadenamusic.com (626) 403-2300

San Francisco

- Nov. 18. (Tues.)  Fred Hersch.  Solo piano.  Gersh is always a pleasure to hear, but never more so than when he plays alone.  Hopefully he’ll include some selections from his recent album of music by Antonio Carlos Jobim.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  )510) 238-9200.

- Nov. 20 – 22. (Fri. – Sun.)  Wallace Roney Quintet.  Trumpeter Roney’s playing style flows from the Miles Davis wellspring, but what he does with it is uniquely his own.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

Savion glover

- Nov. 20 – 22.  (Fri. – Sun.)  Patti Austin.  Who will show up this week?  The Jazz Patti, the Blues Patti, the Soul Patti.  Doesn’t matter.  All of Austin’s musical manifestations are great.  With any luck she’ll include something from all her sources.  Yoshi’s  San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Nov. 17 – 22. (Mon. – Sun.)  Savion Glover.  “Jamming with the Masters” The brilliant tap artist performs with special guests McCoy Tyner, Roy Haynes, Eddie Palmieri, Jack DeJohnette and others TBA.  Check with club for schedules.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

- Nov. 17 – 22.  George Wein & the Newport All-Stars.  At 84, Wein – a swinging pianist as well as jazz’s most successful impresario – still loves to get up on the stage and do it himself.  He performs with the true all-star backing of saxophonist Lew Tabackin, trumpeter Randy Sandke, guitarist Howard Alden, drummer Winard Harper and others.  Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola.  (212) 258-9595.

. – Nov. 21. (Sat.)  Mariza and Friends.  The Portuguese diva and her passionate fado interpretations are joined, in a diverse program, by Peru’s Eva Ayllon and Cuban jazz pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba.  Carnegie Hall.  http://www.carnegiehall.org/SiteCode/Intro.aspx

- Nov. 22. (Sun.)  Jean-Michel Pilc Quartet. French pianist is one of the most adventurous members of the new generation of players taking their music beyond the powerful influence of Bill Evans. 55 Bar (212) 929-9883.

PIcks of the Week: Nov. 9 – 15

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Nov. 9. (Mon.)  Judy Wexler. Wexler’s briskly swinging vocal style finds a perfect match with the trio of organist Joe Bagg, guitarist Bruce Forman and drummer Devin Kelly.  Charlie O’s.   (818) 989-3110.

Steve Gadd & Friends

- Nov. 10. (Tues.)  Reginald Robinson.  The MacArthur Genius award winning pianist  performs solo ragtime pieces to accompany silent film clips of animation by cartoon pioneers Walter Lantz, Otto Messmer and Earl Hurd. The Hammer Museum.

- Nov. 10 – 12. (Tues. – Thurs.)  Steve Gadd and Friends. After bringing the authentic flavor of jazz to a long list of pop artists, drummer Gadd does his own thing. With Joey DeFrancesco, Ronnie Cuber and Paul Bollenback.   Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.  (Also at Yoshi’s SanFran Nov. 13 – 15.  See Below)

- Nov. 11. (Wed.)  The Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra.  Nicholas McGegan conducts this superb period orchestra, six soloists and the Philharmonia Chorale in a rare evening devoted completely to the music of Henry Purcell.  Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

- Nov. 12. (Thurs.)  McCoy Tyner.  Versatile, ever-intriguing Tyner has been one of the most powerful piano innovators of the past five decades.  He performs with his trio and alto saxophonist Gary Bartz.  The large improvisational ensemble, Build an Ark, opens the show.  UCLA Live at Royce Hall. (310) 825-4401.

Janis Mann

- Nov.12. (Thurs.)  Janis Mann.  Although she’s been compared to such iconic singers as Sarah Vaughan, Mann bring’s her own unique qualities to the classic jazz vocal style. Crown Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge. (310) 642-7500.  m

- Nov. 12. (Thurs.)  Pete Christlieb Tall and Small Band w. vocalist comedian Tony Russell.  Saxophonist for all seasons Christlieb leads a snappy 10-piece band with his wife, trombonist Linda Small-Christlieb.  This is the first event in which comedy is added to Vitellos’ Red Carpet Jazz Series.  More on the way.   Upstairs at Vitellos.  (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 12. (Thurs.)  Denise Donatelli. A singer with the sound, the rhythm and the interpretive imagination to bring a song to life – that’s Donatelli.   Charlie O’s.  (818) 989-3110.

- Nov. 12 – 15. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Dawn Upshaw with the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by Gustavo Dudamel.. Upshaw sings Luciano Berio’s fascinating cycle of folk songs and Dudamel conducts Schubert’s Symphony #8 (Unfinished).  Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

- Nov. 13. (Fri.)  “Loud and Rich. “  Loudon Wainwright and Richard Thompson. A pair of veteran songwriters, each with a witty, sometimes sardonic, way with a phrase, make a rare duo appearance.  UCLA Live at Royce Hall.  (310) 825-4401.

Frank Marocco

- Nove. 13. (Fri.)  Dr. Bobby Rodriguez. ” Latin Dance Party”.  Trumpeter and educator Rodriguez knows all the connections between the steaming rhythms of Latin jazz and Latin dance.  The Culver Club in the Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside.  (310) 649-1776.

- Nov. 14. (Sat.)  Frank Marocco Quartet. Marocco keeps affirming the role of the accordion in jazz and beyond with his rich, inventive musical imagination.  He’s backed by Pat Senatore, bass, Robert Hardt, piano and Ramon Banda, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

- Nov. 9. (Mon.)   Ian Anderson plays acoustic Jethro Tull. Anarchic flutist Anderson revisits his past.   The Warfield.

- Nov. 11.  (Wed.)  Leon Russell.  A rare club appearance by the great songwriter, pianist and character. Yoshi’s  San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

- Nov. 12. (Thurs.)  Ray Davies performing the Kinks Choral Collection. Forty years after, Davies is still producing memorable music.  The Warfield.

- Nov. 13. – 15. (Fri. – Sun.)  Steve Gadd and Friends.  W.. Joey DeFrancesco, Ronnie Cuber and Paul Bollenback.  Yoshi’s  San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Nov. 9 – 12. (Mon. – Thurs.  Gal Costa and Romero Lubambo.  An irresistible combination: Costa’s dark-toned, intimate lyricism and Lubambo’s remarkably intuitive guitar backing.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

Jim Hall

- Nov. 10 – 14. (Tues. – Sat.)  Jim Hall Quartet.  Veteran guitarist Hall, always eager to test his wares in a contemporary setting, performs with Greg Osby, alto sax, Steve Laspina, bass and Joey Baron, drums. Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

- Nov. 11. (Wed.)  Kat Edmonson.  A stand-out in the crowded field of young female jazz vocalists, Edmonson has an ear caressing sound and an easygoing sense of rhythmic swing.  The Jazz Standard.   (212) 447-7733.

- Nov. 13 & 14. (Fri. & Sat.)  The Mike Melvoin Trio.   The veteran pianist is backed by the world class rhythm team of bassist Jay Leonhart and drummer Bill Goodwin.  Mike promises that they “will play music for your blood, your heart and your spirit.”  Kitano.  (212) 885-7119.

 

Picks of the Week: Nov. 2 – 8.

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Nov. 2. (Mon.) Gianni Russo. Russo, who played the role of Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather, hosts an entertaining evening featuring his vocal versions of songs from the Italian crooner era, as well as a collection of his Il Padrino Wines. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 4. (Wed.) Gaea Schell. Pianist/singer Schell likes to think of herself as a pianist first, and there’s no denying her solid jazz skills. But there’s something to be said, as well, for her intimate, understated vocal stylings. She performs in a duo with bassist Zach Matthews. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 4. (Wed.) Amanda McBroom. She may be best known for “The Rose,” but McBroom’s singing and songwriting talents reach far beyond the success of a single song. On this night, she concentrates on selections from her latest album, Chanson, singing the songs of Jacques Brel. Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- NOv. 5. (Thurs.) Milton Nascimento. One of the great icons of Brazilian popular music, Nascimento doesn’t perform often in the Southland. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear a living legend, still at the top of his form, in action. The Conga Room. (212) 749-0162.  Nascimento also appears at the San Francisco Jazz Festival on Saturday (see below).

- Nov. 5. (Thurs.) Sara Tavares. Portuguese singer Tavares is well connected to her Cape Verdean heritage, but her interests also reach out to the stirring music of Portugal, Brazil, Angola and beyond. The Skirball Cultural Center. (310) 440-4500.  Tavares also appears at the San Francisco Jazz Festival on Friday (see below).

- Nov. 5. (Thurs.) Michael Session. Alto saxophonist Session is one of the Southland’s most dynamic players, making every one of his solos into a wildly exciting improvisational journey. Crown Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge. (310) 642-7500.

- Nov. 5. (Thurs.) Jackie Ryan. There’s a good reason why Ryan’s latest album, Doozy, was at the top of the radio airplay charts for six straight weeks. And that’s because everything she sings is the product of an ear-caressing combination of skill, imagination and a marvelous sound.  Ryan performs at Largo at the Coronet Theatre in a Jazz Bakery  “Moveable Feast. (310) 271-9039.

- Nov. 6. (Fri.) Kim Richmond Ensemble. Alto saxophonist and versatile composer/arranger Richmond leads the first rate ensembles of John Daversa, trumpet, Joey Sellers, trombone, Mehesh Balisooriya, piano and Jamey Tate, drums. Vitellos Restaurant. (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 6. (Fri.) Lanny Morgan Every performance by the veteran alto saxophonist provides a vivid reminder that bebop still lives, when it is played by a master jazz improviser such as Morgan. He’s backed by the bassist John Heard, drummer Roy McCurdy and pianist Andy Langham. Charlie O’s. (818) 989-3110.

- Nov. 6. (Fri.) Laurence Juber. Grammy-winning, former member of Paul McCartney’s Wings, Juber is a guitarists’ guitarist, universally admired for both the skill and the creativity of his finger style playing.  McCabe’s (310) 828-4497.

- Nov. 6 & 7.  (Fri. & Sat.)   Esperanza Spalding. Bassist/singer Spalding is one of the rapidly rising new young jazz stars. You’ll know why after you hear her first number. OCPAC. Samueli Theatre. (714) 556-2787.   Spalding also appears at the San Francisco Jazz Festival on Thursday (see below).

- Nov. 6 & 7. (Fri. & Sat.) Jack Jones Sings the lyrics of Alan and Marilyn Bergman. The son of Allen Jones, a movie musical star, Jones works hard, and successfully, at keeping alive the tradition of big-voiced male balladeers. Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210

- Nov. 6 – 8. (Fri. – Sun.) “Ramayana: An Indian Epic” The classic Indian epic, one of the world’s great legendary dramas is performed via Balinese music and dance by Gamelan Burat Wanti. REDCAT. (213)237-2800.

- Nov. 7. (Sat.) Patti Austin. If there’s a style that Austin can’t sing, it’s hard to imagine what it could be. But what really matters is that, beyond eclectic versatility, she brings wide open inventiveness to every song she touches. CSUN Performing Arts Center (818) 677-5768.

- Nov. 8. (Sun.) Betty Bryant. The always-entertaining, veteran singer/pianist celebrates her 80^th birthday with a CD release party and a jazz brunch. 11 a.m. Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210

San Francisco

- Nov. 3. (Tues.) Claudia Acuna. She has one of the jazz vocal world’s finest voices, but what really makes Acuna special is the rich, expressive way she uses her natural abilities. Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

- Nov. 5, 6, 7 & 8.  (Thurs, Fri. ,Sat. & Sun.)  The San Francisco Jazz Festival — SFJAZZ.   Thurs: Esperanza Spalding at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.  Fri: Sara Tavares at the Herbst Theatre.  Sat: Milton Nascimento at Nob Hill Masonic Center.  Sun: Ornette Coleman at Davies Symphony Hall.   SFJAZZ. (415) 398-5655.

- Nov. 6 – 8. (Fri. – Sun.) Jean Luc-Ponty. Cutting edge violinist Ponty has taken his instrument into adventurous new areas of expression. Yoshi’s Oakland. (510) 238-9200.

New York

- Nov. 3 – 8 (Tues. – Sun.) Lou Donaldson Quartet. Veteran alto saxophonist Donaldson doesn’t receive the credit he deserves as one of the best of the post-Charlie Parker altoists. Village Vanguard. (212) 255-4037.

- Nov. 3 – 9. (Tues. – Sun.) Django Reinhardt Festival celebrates its 10^th anniversary with a stellar line-up of talent, all inspired by Reinhardt, the gypsy jazz master. Tchavalo & Samson Schmitt, Brian Torff, Andreas Oberg, Ludovic Beier, Aurore Voilqué, Ted Gottsegan. Birdland. (212) 581-3080.

- Nov. 6 – 8. (Fri. – Sun.) Vijay Iyer Trio. American born, from Indian parents, Iyer brings an extraordinary range of musical perspectives to his always compelling piano playing. Jazz Standard. (212) 447-7733.

Picks of the Week: Oct. 26 – Nov. 1

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Oct. 26. (Mon.)  Charito.  Japanese singer Charito performs convincingly in areas reaching from jazz to r&b and soul music.  She also appears at Yoshi’s Oakland on Oct. 27 (see below).   Catalina Bar & Grill  (323) 466-2210.

Oct. 27. (Tues.)    John Pisano’s  Guitar Night is always one of the Southland’s most enjoyable jazz events.  And this week it’s even better, with Pisano swapping riffs with the veteran guiratist Gene Bertoncini.(who’s played with everyone from Benny Goodman to Wayne Shorter).  Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

- Oct. 28. (Wed.)  Sony Holland.  One of the most interesting members of northern California’s prolific crop of first rate jazz singers, Holland has now moved to Los Angeles.  Here’s the first local opportunity to see and hear this adventurous new addition to the Southland’s own gallery of world class jazz performers.   Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 29. (Thurs.)  The Diva Den.  With Kristen Korb, Kathleen Grace and Inga Swearingen. Divas they may be, but Korb, Grace and Swearingen are far more focused on the impressive musicality of their singing than their status as young prima donnas.   Vitellos Restaurant.  (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 29. (Thurs.)  Lew Soloff Quintet Veteran trumpeter Soloff, once a stalwart with Blood, Sweat & Tears, has also been a first call player for every imaginable musical style.  THis time out, catch Lewie doing his own thing.    Charlie O’s.   (818) 989-3110.

- Oct. 29. (Thurs.)  William Galison  Quintet.  Harmonica virtuoso Galison – who’s worked with Sting, Barbra Streisand and Jaco Pastorious, among others, makes a rare Southland appearance.  Toots Thielemans calls him “The most original and individual of the new generation of harmonica players.”  The L.A. Modern Jazz Series at the Whitefire Theatre, Sherman Oaks.   323.251.0748.

- Oct. 29 – Nov. 1. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Eldar. He’s been an adventurous pianist since he was fourteen.  Now a more mature player, he’s finding a way to balance his enviable virtuosity with  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 30. (Fri.)  Inga Swearingen.  In addition to her participation in the Diva Den (see above), Swearingen is a compellingly original singer in her own right.  A frequent guest on A Prairie Home Companion, she brings diverse musicality – from jazz to Swedish folk songs – to everything she sings. In this performance, she celebrates the songs of Johnny Mercer.  LACMA (323) 857-6000.

- Oct. 30. (Fri.)  Bill Cunliffe.  “The Blues & the Abstract Truth, Take 2.” Pianist/composer Cunliffe, always exploring intriguing creative areas, does his own interpretation of the Oliver Nelson classic.   The Culver Club in the Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside. (310) 649-1776.  .

- Oct. 30 (Fri.)  Dengue Fever.  Lead singer Chhom Nimo provides offbeat element in Dengue Fever’s Cambodian power rock sound.  The Broad Stage.

- Oct. 30 & 31. (Fri. & Sat.)  Sandra Booker.  Her New Orleans roots are the fundamental source of Booker’s singing, which also blossoms into straight ahead jazz, r&b, soul, Brazilian and beyond.  No wonder she has a resume that reaches from Wynton Marsalis to Billy Higgins.  Hollywood Studio Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-9917.

- Nov. 1. (Sun.)  First Annual Asian-American Jazz Festival. Any doubts about either the quality or the quantity of jazz taking place in Asia will be completely dispelled by this all-star line of talent.  Among the headliners:  Hiromi. Charmaine Clamor. Prelude. Mon David. Gary Fukushima.   Japanese America National Museum Forum.  Asian-American Jazz Festival (617) 281-7285.

San Francisco

- Oct. 27. (Tues.)  Charito.  Japanese jazz singer makes her second California appearance in two nights (see above).  She performs in collaboration with the San Francisco American Jazz Festival.  Yoshi’s Oakland (510) 236-9200.

- Oct. 29. (Thurs.)  Mads Tollings Quartet. Violinist Tollings, a two-time Grammy Award winner takes some time off from his work with the Turtle Island Quartet to front his own group.    Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

Nov. 1. (Sun.)  Pamela Rose. Adventurous singer Rose presents “Wild Women of Song: Great Gal Composers of the Jazz Era.”  It’s a multi-media production with music, narrative and visuals.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600

New York

- Oct. 27 – 31. (Tues. – Sat.)  Pat Martino Organ Quartet.  Guitarist Martino, always an exciting player on his own, leads an especially fiery band, with Eric Alexander, sax, Jeff “Tain” Watts, drums, Tony Monaco, organ.  Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

- Oct. 27 – Nov. 1. (Tues. – Sun.)  Ron Carter Trio with Mulgrew Miller and Russell Malone.  A stellar trio if there ever was one, with Carter’s magnificently creative bass playing leading the way.  Opening act is the trio of drummer Francesca Mela. The Blue Note.    (212) 475-8592.

Click here to check out Mike Katz’s iRoM review of the Carter trio during their recent  Los Angeles appearance.

Picks of the Week: Oct 20 – 25

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Oct. 20. (Tues.)  Kelly Mittleman.  A former journalist and correspondent for NPR and CBS, Mittleman is also a songwriter of striking originality and a singer with a sound and style all her own.  She makes her West Coast debut in this one-nighter at Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.  .

Andrea Wolper

- Oct. 21 – 23. (Wed. – Fri..)  Andrea Wolper.  Versatile singer/actress/writer Wolper brings her atmospheric interpretations to every song she sings – including her own.  She  rarely performs in the  Southland, but this week Wolper appears in several locations.  None, unfortunately, are in L.A.  But she can be heard  at Dizzy’s Jazz in San Diego (Wed.); Jazz at the Merc in Temecula (Thurs.); Time in a Bottle Wine Merchants in Redlands (Fri.).

- Oct. 22. (Thurs.)  Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer. Three players from utterly different musical backgrounds make a seemingly unlikely combination, with Fleck’s banjo, Hussain’s Indian percussion and Meyer’s bass coming together to affirm music’s utter universality.  UCLA live at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-4401

- Oct. 22. (Thurs.)  Joe La Barbera Quartet.  Versatile drummer La Barbera steps out front to lead his own band.  And what a band it is: Bob Sheppard, reeds, Clay Jenkins, trumpet, Bill Cunliffe, piano, Tom Warrington, bass.  Vitellos Restaurant.  (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 22. (Thurs.)  Denise Donatelli.  A honey and whiskey sound, a rhythmic lift and a boundless musical imagination – that’s Donatelli.  Crown Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge.  (310) 642-7500.

Omara Portuondo

- Oct. 23. (Fri.) Omara Portuando. In her first U.S. tour since 2004, Portuando – a veteran Cuban artist who first came to the attention of American audiences with the Buena Vista Social Club – is, at 78, still singing the history of Cuban music.  UCLA live at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-4401

- Oct. 23.  (Fri.)  Phil Ranelin & Tribe Renaissance. Trombonist Ranelin has discovered a wealth of interesting timbres, harmonies and sheer energy in his trombone, woodwinds and rhythm Tribe Renaissance.  The Culver Club in the Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside.  (310) 649-1776.

- Oct. 23 – 25. (Fri. – Sun.)  Lee Ritenour.  “Captain Fingers” – so called for both his technical skill and his musical virtuosity – continues to find new jazz adventures.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

Gal Costa

- Oct. 24. (Sat.) Gal Costa. She’s been a star of Brazilian music since the days of Tropicalismo.  Costa’s skills as a singer are beyond time and style, a uniquely authentic expression of the heart and soul of Brazil.   UCLA live at Royce Hall.  (310) 825-4401

- Oct. 24. (Sat.)  Lavay Smith and Her Hot Skillet Lickers.  Don’t let the name fool you.  Smith sings blues and Swing Era tunes with impressive authenticity, and the Skillet Lickers back her with Basie style rhythms.  CSUN Performing Arts Center (818) 677-1200.

- Oct. 24. (Sat.)  Larry Goldings.  Goldings brings a world of experience and an ever curious musical imagination to his unique approach to both piano and organ.  He’ll be backed by Bob Sheppard, tenor sax,  Gabe Noelk bass, Charles Ruggerio ,drums.  Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

San Francisco

- Oct. 23 – 25. (Fri. – Sun.)  Billy Cobham and Friends.  Drummer Cobham performs in the company of a solidly contemporary, all-star band: Patrice Rushen, piano, Donald Harrison, alto sax, Lew Soloff, trumpet, Essiet Okon Essiet, bass.  Yoshi’s Oakland. . (510) 238-9200. .

David Sanborn

- Oct. 22 – 25. (Thurs. – Sun.)  David Sanborn. Sanborn has been too rarely credited for the fact that he is the most stylistically influential alto saxophonist of the past two or three decades.  Aspects of his sound and phrasing can be heard in the work of most altoists under the age of 40.  Here’s a chance to hear the original, in his debut performance at Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Oct. 20 – 24. (Tues. – Sat.)  Phil Woods Quintet. Still one of the great bebop players, Woods’ alto saxophone is teamed up with Brian Lynch, trumpet, Bill Mays, piano, Steve Gilmore, bass and Bill Goodwin, drums.  Birdland. (212)  581-3080

James Moody

- Oct. 20 – 25.(Tues. – Sun.)  Dizzy Gillespie Alumni All-Stars.  It’s a bit of a stretch to call all this line-up “Gillespie Alumni,” but there’s no denying their love for, and understanding of, Dizzy’s musical canon.  The All-Stars include James Moody, tenor sax, Roy Hargrove, trumpet, Roberta Gambarini, vocals,  Steve Davis, alto sax, Cyrus Chestnut, piano, John Lee, bass, Lewis Nash, drums.  Blue Note.   (212)  475-8592.

Oct. 21 – 25.  (Wed. – Sun)  Joshua Redman Trio.  Redman displays his extraordinary skills in the most difficult of horn soloist settings, performing with Matt Penman, bass and Greg Hutchinson, drums.  Jazz Standard.  (212) 447-7733.

Picks of the Week: Oct. 12 – 18

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Oct. 12. (Mon.)  BERN.  Drummer Bernie Dresel’s 12 piece band of instrumentalists and singers, playing what he describes as  “supercharged horny funk” — swing their way through music ranging from Tower of Power and Stevie Wonder to Miles Davis and Steely Dan.  Cafe Cordiale in Sherman Oaks.   (818) 789-1985.

- Oct. 12. (Mon.) Diane Hubka.  Singer/guitarist Hubka will no doubt feature some selections from her recent album, “I Like It Here.”  She’s backed by pianist Joe Bagg, bassist Jeff D’Angelo and drummer Ryan Doyle. Charlie O’s.  (818) 994-3058

Carol Welsman

- Oct. 13. (Tues.) Carol Welsman. Pianist/singer Welsman celebrates the release of  “I Like Men: Reflections of Miss Peggy Lee” — a tribute to one of Welsman’s inspirations that generates  some of her most engaging and musically intuitive interpretations.  Her tender version of “The Folks Who Live on the Hill” from the new album was just selected Pick of the Week by USA Today’s music critic, Elysa Gardner  (over Barbra Streisand, Joan Baez and Madonna).  Welsman will be backed by her usual all-star trio — guitarist Pat Kelley, bassist Rene Camacho and drummer Jimmy Branly.  Vibrato.Grill Jazz…etc (310) 474-9400.

- Oct. 13. (Tues.)  “Tango Night” A new twist on John Pisano’s weekly “Guitar Night” sessions.  This time he matches tango riffs with guitarist Marcello Caceres, bassist Pablo Motta and bandoneon player Coco Trivisono.  Spazio (818) 728-8400.

HIGHLIGHT……………………………………

Franco Battiato

- Oct. 13 – 18. (Tues. – Sun.)  “Hit Week L.A.: The Italian Way of Life” A celebration of Italian music, art, poetry, literature and cinema. Performers include Calibro 35, Daniel Luppe, Negrita, The Niro and Linnea 77.  The week concludes on Oct. 18 with an appearance at The Broad Stage by Italian art rock icon, Franco Battiato.

Events take place at the Music Box at the Henry Fonda Theatre, The Broad Stage in Santa Monica and the Italian Cultural Institute.  Hit Week L.A.

………………………………………………….

- Oct. 14. (Wed.)  Ann Hampton Callaway and Ramsey Lewis.  It’s an attractive pairing – the lush sound of Callaway’s richly musical jazz vocalizing, and the always-swinging piano playing of the veteran Lewis. Walt Disney Concert Hall (323) 972-7211

Nikki Yanofsky

- Oct. 14. (Wed.) Nikki Yanofsky.   Yet another young Canadian singing star on the ascendancy.  Fifteen year old Nikki is the youngest performer to ever headline her own show at the Montreal Jazz Festival.  Her repertoire reaches comfortably from Joni Mitchell and folk rock to Ella Fitzgerald and the blues, all of it done with stunning maturity..   Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.  .

- Oct. 16 & 17. (Fri. & Sat.)  “Music From the City of the Angels” John Williams conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a program of film music that embraces selections by  Bernard Herrmann, Erich Korngold, Andre Previn, Felix Waxman and, of course, the magic of Williams’ many classic film scores. Walt Disney Concert Hall (323 )850-2040

Iva Bittova

- Oct. 17. (Sat.)  Jesse Cook.  Nuevo Flamenco guitarist Cook blends simmering Latin rhythms with smooth jazz timbres and a dynamic performing style.  The Broad Stage, Santa Monica.

- Oct. 17. (Sat.) Iva Bittová.  The Czech violinist, singer and musical iconoclast is a stirring performer, moving easily from gypsy tunes to unpredictable happenings.  The Luckman Arts Center.   (323) 363-1356.

- Oct. 17. (Sat.)  Stacy Rowles.  Blending lyrical flugelhorn playing with a lyrical singing style, Rowles performs with Jeff Collela, piano, Pat Senatore, bass and Ryan Doyle, drums.  Vibrato.Grill Jazz …etc (310) 474-9400.

San Diego

- Oct. 15. (Thurs.)  Ellen Johnson.  Performing with Rick Helzer, piano and Rob Thorsen, bass, Johnson sings the music of Charles Mingus and adds a tribute to Sheila Jordan.  Tango Del Rey.  Rancho San Diego.   (858) 581-1114.

San Francisco

Miguel Zenon

- Oct. 15. (Thurs.)  Miguel Zenon’s “Esta Plena” The McArthur Award-winning alto saxophonist/composer and his quintet – pianist Luis Perdomo, bassist Hans Glawischnig, drummer Henry Cole and percussionist Hector “Tito” Matos — presents selections from his latest CD.. Yoshi’s San Francisco (415)  655-5600.

- Oct. 16 – 18. (Fri. – Sun.)  Cedar Walton and Friends. Walton’s mastery of bop and post bop have made him one of the first call jazz pianists for decades.  His “Friens” include tenor saxophonist Eric Alexander, vibist Steve Nelson and more.  Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510)  238-9200

New York

- Oct. 13 – 15. (Tues. – Thurs.)  Dominick Farinacci  Quintet. The simpressive new young trumpet star, his career rapidly escalating performs with his quartet.  Birdland.  (212)  581-3080

Chita Rivera

- Oct. 15 – 18. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jon Faddis Jazz Orchestra.  Trumpeter Faddis takes a break from his work with the Chicago Jazz Ensemble to lead his own stirring big band.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592

- Oct 16 & 17. (Fri. & Sat.)  Chita Rivera.  The ageless dancing and singing star of Broadway musicals appears in a rare, up close and personal night club setting.  Birdland.   (212)  581-3080

- Oct. 16 – 18. (Fri. – Sun.)  The Ben Allison Band.  Bassist Allison leads his own group in selections from his envelope-stretching new album, “Think Free.”  The Jazz Standard.   (212) 576-2232

Picks of the Week: Oct. 5 – 11

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Oct. 7 & 8. (Wed. & Thurs.)  The Stanley Clarke Trio with Hiromi and Lenny White.  They initially seemed an unlikely musical combination – the Return to Forever team of Clarke and White, with the adventurous jazz fusion pianist Hiromi.  But the blend has turned out to be remarkably compatible, especially in the pieces that display Hiromi’s unexpected mainstream skills.   Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 8. (Thurs.) Paco Pena.  The great flamenco guitarist performs in his show (and album) A Compas, fronting a stellar group of guitarists and dancers, along with singer Miguel Ortega and percussionist Nacho Lopez.  UCLA Live at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-4401

- Oct. 8. (Thurs.)  The Mike Melvoin Trio. Melvoin and his steady regulars, bassist Tony Dumas and drummer Ralph Penland are always great to hear.  But Mike’s been bugged by the recent noise in some of the media about jazz being “in trouble.”  “I think,” he says, “that it’s time to disprove that dark vision.”  He’ll no doubt have a few special guests show up to give him a hand in that admirable task.  Crown Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge.  (310) 642-7500.

- Oct. 8 – 11. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Inaugural Concert: Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.  Thursday night’s Inaugural concert introducing the L.A. Phil’s remarkable new Music Director in a performance of Mahler’s celebratory Symphony No. 1 and John Adams’ commissioned composition, City Noir, may well be sold out by now.  But it’s worth a try.  And if you can’t get into the opening night, Dudamel and the Phil will perform the Mahler Symphony No. 1 with the U.S. premiere of Korean composer Unsuk Chin’s Concerto for Sheng and Orchestra on Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon.   Dudamel and the Phil will also revisit Adams’ City Noir the weekend of Nov. 27.   The Inaugural Concert: Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. (323) 650-2000.

- Oct. 9. (Fri.)  Azar Lawrence.  The strong, vigorous tenor saxophone playing of Lawrence takes center stage, backed by bassist Henry Franklin, pianist Theo Saunders and drummer Ramon Banda.  Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

- Oct. 9. (Fri.)  Carol Chaikin.  She’s been around a while, playing alto saxophone and flute with an ever-adventurous style; but she’s still not heard as much as she should be.  So don’t miss this chance.  Chaikin performs  with pianist John Campbell, bassist Tom Warrington and drummer Ryan Doyle.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Oct. 9 & 10. (Fri. & Sat.)  Roberta Gambarini.  The Italian songbird may be from Torino, but Gambarini’s singing is rooted in the history and the essence of jazz, and she is one of the rare contemporary vocalists whose scatting simmers with rhythmic swing and harmonic authenticity.  The Culver Club in the Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside. (310) 649-1776.

- Oct. 9 & 10.  (Fri. & Sat.)  Ron King and Bobby Shew.  It’s trumpet weekend at Charlie O’s with a pair of versatile veterans taking the stage.  King performs on Fri., Shew on Sat. with the rhythm section of pianist Andy Langham, drummer Roy McCurdy and bassists Chris Connor (on Fri.) and Darek Oles (on Sat.)  Charlie O’s. (818) 994-3058.

- Oct. 9 – 11.  (Fri. – Sun.)  Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr.  Forty years as a married couple, hit-makers McCoo and Davis can probably do a complete set of songs – from the Fifth Dimension as well as their own duo recordings – that cruised the tops of the charts.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 10 (Sat.) Divas Simply Singing. Sheryl Lee Ralph’s 19^th annual celebration of divadom once again features a sterling line-up of high profile talent.  The line up includes, in addition to Ralph, Yolanda Adams, Brenda Russell, Loretta Devine, Jennifer Lewis, Yo Yo, Barbara Morrison, Frenchie Davis, N’dambi and Sam Harris.  The Saban Theatre.   (323) 655-0111

- Oct. 10. (Sat.)  Sambajah and Kleber Jorge.  Venice Beach is not Ipanema, by any stretch of the imagination, but there’s something special, nonetheless about hearing Jorge’s guitar and songs and the stirring Brazilian rhythms of Sambajah with the Pacific Ocean in the background.  The Terrace on the sand walk to the beach.  10 p.m. No cover charge.  (310) 578-1530.

- Oct. 10. (Sat.)  Kathleen Wilhoite.  Actress/singer/songwriter Wilhoite’s resume embraces starring roles in films (The Edge, Pay It Forward) and television (L.A. Law, The Gilmore Girls) as well as the placement of her songs in, among others, Murphy’s Law and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.  Here’s a chance to hear her do her own thing, up close and personal, Vitellos Restaurant.  (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 10 (Sat.)  Babbie Green and John Boswell.  Green is show biz second generation, the daughter of composer Johnny Green (“I Cover the Waterfront,” “Body and Soul”) and TV personality Betty Furness.  But her catalog of songs stands on its own, surely one of the best – if, sadly, too little known – examples of contemporary songwriting.  She performs rarely, so don’t miss this chance to hear her – and her songs – performed  with long-time partner, accompanist and singer Boswell. The Gardenia.  (323) 467-7444.

San Francisco

- Oct. 8 – 11. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Regina Carter.  The jazz world’s most versatile violinist – ready, able and eager to expand her already impressive improvisational perspectives.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

- Oct. 9 – 11.  (Fri. – Sun.)  Stanley Clarke Trio with Hiromi and Lenny White.  If you missed them at Catalina’s on Wed. and Thurs. (see above), a quick run up to San Francisco will give you a chance to hear this engaging trio.    Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

Ann Hampton Callaway

- Oct. 5.  (Mon.) Girls Like Us. It’s a great title, and a potentially great show, given the material and the cast.  The songs of Carole King, Joni Mitchell and Carla Simon will be sung by Liz and Ann Hampton Callaway, Jessica Molasky, Barbara Walsh and Capathia Jenkins.  The Merkin Concert Hall at Kaufman Center.  (212) 501-3330.

- Oct. 6. (Tues.)  Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Raiders.  Martin returns to his banjo-picking roots – he really is pretty good – at the start of a 23 city tour tour bringing bluegrass to the masses.  Carnegie Hall.  Also at the Wang Center in Boston on Wed., Oct. 7.   They’ll also be on the Letterman Show tonight – Monday Oct. 5.

- Oct. 6 – 11. (Tues. – Sun.)  Diane Schuur. She’s been returning to her jazz roots in the last few years, and the results – especially when Schuur emphasizes her story telling skills – have been impressive.   Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

- Oct. 6 – 11. (Tues. – Sun.) and Oct. 13 – 19. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Bill Charlap Trio.  Pianist Charlap celebrates his 43^rd birthday (on Oct. 15) with a two week run, displaying the versatility that has made him a superb accompanist as well as an important jazz artist in his own right. The Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

Washington, D.C.

- Oct. 11. (Sun.)  The Thelonious Monk International Jazz Bass Competition and Gala Concert.  Fifteen outstanding young bassist compete before an impressive panel of judges: Ron Carter, Dave Holland, Bob Hurst, Christian McBride, John Patitucci, Charlie Haden and David Baker.  The Gala Concert will salute the 70^th anniversary of Blue Note Records with appearances by Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter, Bobby McFerrin, McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Heath, Joe Lovano, Dee Dee Bridgewater and numerous others.  The Kennedy Center.  http://www.kennedy-center.org (800) 444-1324.

Picks of the Week: Sept. 28 – Oct. 4

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Sept. 30 (Wed.) Otmaro Ruiz and John Belzaguy Duo. Expect a musically stirring encounter between Venezuela-born Ruiz’s rich textured, Latin-tnged piano and Belzaguy’s sturdy, rhythmically versatile bass. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  (310) 474-9499.

- Sept. 30. (Wed.) Bob Sheppard Quartet. W. Larry Koonse, guitar, Gabe Noel, bass and Joe LaBarbera, drums. Sheppard is a first call saxophonist for every imaginable style, but he’s at his best when he’s stretching out with a band of similarly gifted all-stars like this one. Upstairs at Vitello’s (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 1. & 2. (Thurs. & Fri.) The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. The big jazz band is America’s symphony orchestra, and the JLCO with Marsalis continue to preserve the classic repertoire while finding new ways to explore the instrumentation’s almost limitless possibilities. Thursday: The Orange County Performing Arts Center: Segerstrom Concert Hall. (714) 556-2787. Friday: UCLA Live at Royce Hall.  825-4401.

- Oct. 1 – 3 (Thurs. – Sat.) John Beasley Band featuring Nicholas Payton, Victor Bailey and Terri Lyne Carrington. Pianist/composer Beasley’s remarkable resume includes television scoring (Cheers, Star Trek, etc.), and gigs with everyone from Miles Davis and Barbra Streisand to Chaka Khan and James Brown. He’ll no doubt be playing some of the grooving funk, bop and bossa selections from his latest CD, Positootly. Catalina Bar & Grill. http://www.catalinajazzclub.com (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 2. (Fri.) Terese Genecco. San Francisco’s own Swing Diva performs with her Little Big Band and the enthusiasticc backing of legendary bongo player Jack Costanzo. The M Bar & Restaurant.  (323) 856-0036.

- Oct. 2. (Fri) Pretzel Logic. Spazio. Keyboardist Steve Chernove’s 12 piece tribute band does a startlingly effective presentation of Steely Dan’s remarkable music. And, since this is music that almost demands more frequent live hearing, don’t miss this opportunity to hear it in living color. Spazio.  (818) 728-8400.

- Oct. 2. (Fri.) Loggins & Messina. More than thirty-five years after Sittin In’, and four years after 2005’s Sittin’ In Again reunion tour, the dynamic duo from the ’70s are back again, spinning their always engaging way with a song. Greek Theatre.  (323) 665-3125.

- Oct. 3. (Sat.) Crosby, Stills & Nash. There’s nothing quite like the sound, the substance and the hit-making potential that characterized the partnership of these three remarkable musical talents. Forty years after the release of their self-titled debut album, their music is still alive, still relevant. (Tickets for the Sept. 23 date will be honored for this rescheduled show.) The Greek Theatre.  (323) 665-3125.

- Oct. 3. (Sat.) Marianne Faithful. The life and times of Marianne Faithful represent one of the most remarkable odysseys of the rock music, and beyond, era. Now 62, she brings a lifetime of emotional and creative complexities — ranging across her youthful connection with Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones, her sundry relationships, her battles with addiction and her struggle to find her own Muse — to every performance. UCLA Live at Royce Hall.  (310) 825-4401.

- Oct. 3. (Sat.) Hafez Nazeri. Iranian composer Nazeri’s unique blend of Eastern and Western classical musics will feature his Rumi Symphony Project: Cycle One, performed by an ensemble of Iranian and American players. The highlight of the work will be the extraordinary singing of the poetry of Rumi by Shahram Nazeri (Hafez’s father) — a singer whose brilliant vocal excursions are one of the great pleasures of Iranian music. The Pantages Theatre. (800) 745-2000.

- Oct. 3. (Sat.) Frank Marocco, backed by John Whinnery, alto saxophone, John Giannelli, bass and Kendall Kay, drums, demonstrates — as he has been doing for many years — the rich, often under-rated, potential of the accordion in jazz. Gianelli Square.  (818) 772-1722

- Oct. 3. (Sat.) Bienvenido Gustavo!. He’s here. Gustavo Dudamel, the much-anticipated savior of classical music in L.A. (and beyond) begins his inaugural season as the new Music Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic with a Target Free Community Concert at the Hollywood Bowl. The gifted young Venezuelan conducts the YOLA – EXPO Center Youth Orchestra in a performance of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, followed by a performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 by Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Other artists on the program include Andrae Crouch, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Herbie Hancock, David Hidalgo, Taj Mahal and Alfredo Gonzalez. (Although tickets are no longer available, there may be some cancellations, up to the date of the concert.) The Hollywood Bowl (323) 850-2000.

- Oct. 4. (Sun.) Mon David. Filipino singer David has already established himself as one of the rising stars in the largely understaffed arena of male jazz singing. He celebrates the release of his new CD, Coming True in the scintillating company of the Jazzipino Queen, Charmaine Clamor. Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 4. (Sun.) La Vida Music Festival. Summer’s end brings with it one of the year’s most action-packed programs, with a cast of players reaching across the spectrum of Latin jazz. Featured artists include Hubert Laws, Pete Escovedo, Luis Cruz Beltran, Mariachi Elias Son, Robert Kyle Brazilian Band, Chris Bennett (saluting the Ladies of Latin Jazz), and Chalo Eduardo and the Brazlian Beat. The Ford Amphitheatre.  (323) 4613673.

San Francisco and the Wine Country

Oct. 1 – 3. (Thurs – Sat.) Earl Klugh. With twelve Grammy nominations and twenty-three Top Ten Billboard-charting records (including four #1s) Klugh has thoroughly established himself as one of the most listenable guitarists in contemporary jazz. Yoshi’s Oakland. .

- Oct. 2. (Fri.) Gil Scott-Heron. Poet, musician, activist, author and charismatic personality Scott-Heron’s 70s’ work had a signficant impact upon the emergence of rap and hip-hop. He has returned to performing after a series of incarcerations for alleged drug violations. The Regency Ballroom. San Francisco.  (800) 745-3000.

- Oct. 2 – 4. (Fri. – Sun) Ramsey Lewis. The entertaining, musically prolific pianist offers material from his Concord Records debut Songs From the Heart: Ramsey Plays Ramsey, released on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

- Oct. 3. (Sat.) Linda Kosut. San Francisco-based jazz/cabaret vocalist Kosut — yet another amazing Bay Area canary — brings her skills as an actress to her insightful interpretations of songs underscored with a fusion of jazz, pop and folk. She performs in an atmospheric venue that blends the pleasures of wine and jazz. Backing her: the Max Perkoff Band (Perkoff, piano & trombone), Fred Randolph, bass and Ranzel Merritt, drums). Silo’s Jazz Club. Napa, California. (707) 251-5833.

New York

- Sept. 28 & 30. (Tues. & Wed.) Mike Stern Trio. Stern, for decades one of contemporary jazz’s most versatile guitarists, rarely has time in his busy schedule to do a gig like this — with a solid trio in the intimate setting of one of Manhattan’s ultimate jazz bars. So don’t miss this one. He performs with bassist Anthony Jackson and drummer Lionel “King” Cordew. 55 Bar.

- Sept. 29 – Oct. 4. (Tues. – Sun.) Karrin Allyson displays her eclectic musical tastes, swinging rhythms and engaging personality in the Diet Coke Women in Jazz Festival. Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola (212) 258-9800.

- Sept. 29 – Oct. 4. (Tues. – Sun.) Conrad Herwig and “The Latin Side of Miles and Coltrane.” Trombonist Herwig digs into the surpriaingly substantial catalog of Latin rhythms simmering through the music of Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Special guest Eddie Palmieri adds his own inimitable  enhancements. The Blue Note.