This week 12.15.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features a Holiday Show by returning guest artist MICHAEL POWERS on guitar with a special appearance by Frosty The Bluesman. Michael was born in New York City in 1960, but grew up in the San Francisco Bay area. His musical career began as therapy, when at the age of 15 he took up strumming the guitar to strengthen his wrist after a skateboard accident. Following his graduation from Berkeley High School when he was 15½, he moved to Seattle and frequented local jam sessions, keeping his fingers on the guitar strings and his mind on making his music reach a wider audience. Says Powers, “I learned how to play by sitting in at as many places as I could, developing eclectic tastes by playing with all types of bands: Jazz, Rock, Blues, R&B, and Top 40. I wanted to learn how to play any kind of music that featured a guitar as a solo voice.” As Michael’s musicianship progressed, his interests broadened to include music theory. He enrolled at Seattle’s prestigious Cornish College of the Arts where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Composition and Performance in 1982. While at Cornish, Powers studied under composers Gil Evans and Sam Rivers, bassist Gary Peacock, pianist Art Lande, and trombonist Julian Priester. His style was also influenced by a diverse group of musicians which includes Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santana, Charlie Parker, George Benson, Stanley Jordan, Miles Davis, and Kevin Eubanks. On stage, Michael has shared performed with, recorded with or shared billings with piano giant Herbie Hancock, classic Jazz saxophonist Eddie “Clean Head” Vinson, B3 master Dr. Lonnie Smith, Ronnie Cuber, Gil Scott Heron, Keiko Matsui, Nancy Wilson, Les McCann, Najee, Tommy Davidson, Dr. Cornel West, the legendary Ray Charles, Afro-pop star King Sunny Ade, Grammy award-winning vocalist Diane Schuur, R&B greats Gladys Knight and the Pips and Atlantic Starr, contemporary Jazz artists Ronny Jordan, Tom Grant, David Benoit, sax great Ernie Watts, the Yellowjackets, and the duo of Tuck & Patti. “It’s hard to categorize my music, although it usually ends up in the Jazz record bins,” says Michael. “If I had to put a label on it, I would call it contemporary instrumental music. It’s a sound rooted in the Jazz tradition that keeps pace stylistically with Pop, R&B, and Blues; with Blues being at the core of my inspiration.” His powerful performances have regularly commanded standing ovations.

Also in the band Ronnie Bishop on drums, Eddy Ferguson on bass, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … hope to see you!

Sunday December 14th the Community of Christ Church presents a concert of Christmas Jazz performed by Steve Bugni on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, Ronnie Bishop on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. We hope you will come join us for this special musical celebration of Christmas! Free admission.

This week 12.8.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features special guest Darren Motamedy on sax. Darren has been on the Smooth Jazz Scene since 1989.  His first album “First Generation” hit the top 20 in Radio and Records and landed also on the Billboard Charts.  Subsequent albums followed including “Square One”, “Dangerously Close” “It’s All Good”, “Intimate”, “Relax Your Mind”, “Peace”, “The Best of Darren Motamedy”, “Don’t Cha’ Know”, “Gruv Horn” “All About Love”, “Live a Special Day, his current 60’s/70’s era tribute to jazz “Distant” and most recently a lovely spiritual recording called “Grateful”. His 2009 CD “Don’t Cha Know” became the #1 Jazz Album of the year in a listeners market of over 250,000 people.  It also went onto becoming the #4 jazz album on the INDIE market.  Gruv Horn followed and was in the top 20 of smooth jazz radio in the United States. Darren Motamedy resides in Las Vegas and is a touring musician.  His current tours have him booked in Denver CO, Seattle WA, and Palm Springs CA, San Jose California, as well as being the featured artist for the NAMM show in Los Angeles. He has toured the world and performed from Norway to the Philippines, Mexico, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and throughout the Caribbean and the USA. Darren has performed with “The Rippingtons Band”, “Steve Oliver”, “Gerald Veasely”, “Jeff Lorber”, ”Brian Simpson” “Daryl Williams.” “Marcus Roberts”, “Paul Taylor”, “Jeff Kashiwa” and has performed with “Pieces of a Dream”, “Kenny G”, opened for “Grover Washington Jr”, “Jeff Golub”, “Tom Scott”, and “Chris Botti”.    He has produced numerous jazz festivals including those at the Muckleshoot Casino and the Vino Del Lago Jazz Festival  in Las Vegas 2019. His travels from his hometown of Las Vegas takes him to the Northwest.  He has played at Bill Gates’ home, and performed the national anthem for “The Seattle Seahawks”, “The Seattle Super Sonics”, and the “Seattle Mariners”

Also in the band Mark Ivester on drums, Clipper Anderson on bass, Eugene Bien on keys, Chris Bickley on sax, and a special guest appearence by Greta Matassa on vocals. Come enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

Paul Rogers Trio will be performing a variety of original and classic selections. Paul Rogers is a singer/songwriter that has written such classics as "Santa Lost a Ho" (Christmas Jug Band and "Them Hippies Was Right" (Those Darn Accordions).

Come out and enjoy your favorite beverage, food, a comfortable atmosphere, and GREAT MUSIC! Hope to see you.

This week 12.1.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features the CHRIS BICKLEY QUINTET presenting an all-star celebration of Sonny Rollins plus hard bop and modern jazz classics by John Coltrane, Art Farmer, Dexter Gordon, Herbie Hancock, Chuck Mangione, Lee Morgan, and more! Bickley has performed at the Montreux International Jazz Festival (Switzerland), North Sea Jazz Festival (Netherlands), Bix Beiderbecke Festival (Iowa), Detroit Montreux Jazz Festival (Michigan), and Carnegie Hall (New York). A graduate of  Interlochen Arts Academy, he has served as the Director of  Jazz at Central Michigan University and Northwestern Michigan College, and has performed with many jazz legends including Woody Herman and Herbie Hancock.

The rest of the band includes Dmitri Matheny on flugelhorn, Randy Halberstadt on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, and Mark Ivester on drums. Enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ. Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 11.24.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features Brazilian vocalist Adriana Giordano. Adriana is Brazil-born, Seattle-based, and draws inspiration from the deep well of Brazilian song. She is an effervescent presence on the bandstand. With a deep passion for the music of her homeland, she sings with a mesmerizing and infectious lyricism. Her melodic finesse and rhythmic acuity weave seamlessly, allowing her to soar over grooves and open each song effortlessly.

Giordano has dazzled Seattle audiences since 2010, performing and collaborating with a variety of artists from Seattle, Brazil and Spain including EntreMundos Quarteto, the forró septet En Canto, and The Quarantine Sessions among others. Recognized for her impeccable work as the Brazilian Music producer of the Seattle area, creator/director of the Seattle Latin, Brazilian & Caribbean Festival as well as the Seattle Interprets Jobim concert series.

The band includes Gabe Rodrigues on piano, Jeff Busch on drums, Osama Afif'i on bass, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite Beverage, a kid friendly comfortable atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 11.17.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s presents a CANNONBALL ADDERLY TRIBUTE featuring Tracy Knoop on alto sax. A native of the Pacific Northwest, saxophonist Tracy Knoop is one of the best-known jazz artists and teachers in the region. After graduating from the Berklee School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, he joined the world-famous Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and toured with them for ten years. Tracy has performed with such greats as Louis Bellson, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Bernadette Peters, Buddy Rich, Mel Torme, Betty Carter, and many others. Well-versed in classical and pop repertoire, Tracy has also performed with the Temptations, Four Tops, and the Seattle Symphony. He can be heard on commercial recordings by the Charlie May All-Star Big Band, Grit City Octet, Pony Boy All-Star Big Band, and the Tracy Knoop Quartet. He continues to perform extensively throughout the Northwest and across the country.

Tracy has also won many accolades as a teacher and clinician. His approach centers the structural and functional understanding required of jazz improvisation, and maintains firm roots in the technical rigor required for virtuoso classical playing. Each year, his students consistently win or place at Washington State solo contests, and are accepted on scholarship into top-tier music schools across the country, including Eastman, Berklee, and the New School.

The band includes Osama Afifi on bass, Eugene Bien on keys, and Dave Austin on drums on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 11.10.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features special guest … Tacoma harmonica legend Jay Mabin. A veteran of the Northwest music scene for over 50 years, Jay has earned himself the reputation as that of being a true musical legend and harmonica player extraordinaire. He can have you laughing with a familiar and whimsical quote within one song or pull at your heartstrings within a gorgeous ballad the next, all while expressing his own, unique self. The kinetic interaction between Jay and the band take the listener on a musical road-trip through the Great American Songbook; stopping off for a pit-stop with Miles Davis and the Beatles, then continuing down an uncharted, sonic highway that somehow seems familiar, yet still adventurous.

Also in the band Jonas Myres on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, Jeff Busch on drums, Al Alto on guitar, and Chris Bickley on sax. Enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ. Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 11.3.25 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s will feature returning Seattle Jazz artist Susan Pascal on vibes. Susan has taken her music through four tours of Singapore and concerts, workshops and clinics across the United States. Her Pacific Northwest  appearances include the Earshot Jazz Festival and Centrum Jazz Port Townsend, and as a special guest artist with the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, the Seattle Baroque Orchestra, and Seattle’s Gypsy jazz group, Pearl Django. Pascal’s eclectic musical interests are reflected in her own projects. Susan Pascal’s SOUL SAUCE quintet is a tribute to Latin jazz icon Cal Tjader, and her new BRAZIL PROJECT band features the rich rhythmic and melodic traditions of Brazil.  Her straight-ahead jazz group, the SUSAN PASCAL QUARTET has been nominated twice for Best Acoustic Group by Seattle’s Earshot Jazz. Pascal is heard on motion picture soundtracks including “The Wedding Planner”, “Office Space”, ”Eulogy” and “Mirror, Mirror” and is a guest artist on recordings by vocalist Greta Matassa, “All This and Heaven Too,” "And to All a Good Night," and "The Smiling Hour"; the Vern Sielert’s Dektet recording, "From There to Here"; slide guitarist Orville Johnson’s “Slide and Joy”; and many others.

Also performing Osama Afifi on bass, Mark Ivester on drums, and Alexey Nikolaev on sax. Enjoy great food, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, your favorite beverage, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

October 24th through the 31st Dmitri Matheny (flugelhorn) will be touring Michigan with an all star lineup of musicians: Tom Knific on bass, Lisa Sung on piano, Sean Dobbins / Jeff Shoup on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Thursday October 30th we will be performing at:

The Old Goat

The Old Goat has been serving the families of Alger Heights and Grand Rapids since 2015. We are your “Dinner and a Show” destination with live music at dinner Monday-Saturday plus late night Friday and Saturday, and during Sunday brunch. We cook from scratch to give you simple honest and seasonal fare with highly seasoned roots, whether dining in or grabbing takeout. In addition to thoughtfully crafted starters, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, we have added Neapolitan pizza and a delicious rotation of soups. Word has also gotten out about our hearty Sunday brunch, which is accompanied by live jazz. Whatever you’re in the mood for, get satisfaction at the Goat!

October 24th through the 31st Dmitri Matheny (flugelhorn) will be touring Michigan with an all star lineup of musicians: Tom Knific on bass, Lisa Sung on piano, Sean Dobbins / Jeff Shoup on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Tuesday October 28th we will be performing at:

Moriarty's Pub

Established in 1979, Moriarty's Pub has always been a warm and comforting place to relax for everyone who stops in. As a traditional Irish-American pub, Moriarty's strives to serve the best beer, spirits, and food, and to provide a meeting place for those who appreciate the simple pleasure of being in good company. Featuring a large array of bristle dartboards and free house dart play for entertainment, we also offer live music on the weekend wind down, a great happy hour, and an easy place to relax with familiar faces for a bit of food and fun. Our friendly staff looks forward to seeing you soon! Slainte!

This week 10.27.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s will feature guest saxophonist Kareem Kandi. A native of the Pacific Northwest, saxophonist Kareem Kandi is a performer, composer, and educator, in high demand for his talents both on and off the stage.

Kareem is a versatile saxophonist and composer with strong roots in the traditions of Jazz, Blues, Classical and Funk, and has been performing throughout the U.S. and abroad for years, gaining attention from critics and audiences alike.  While staying true to musical styles of the past, he also keeps an eye towards the future by composing original music as well as new arrangements of timeless songs from the great American songbook.

Since 1996, Kareem has been performing both as a bandleader and as a sideman to enthusiastic audiences around the world at concert halls, festivals, and clubs. Over the years Kareem has performed, toured and recorded with some of the finest musicians in the music industry including: Pete Christlieb, Patti Labelle, Mark Elf, Ali Jackson, D’vonne Lewis, Bill Watrous, The Seattle Symphony, Mordy Ferber,  Julian Priester, The Paperboys, The Northwest Repertory Singers, Thomas Marriott, The Tacoma Symphony, Alex Duncan, Frazey Ford, DJ Hapa, The Polyrhythmics, Bill Ramsay, The Staxx Brothers, Jay Thomas, The Sabella Consort, Greta Matassa, The Temptations, Hadley Caliman, The Four Tops, The Harry James Orchestra,  Wayne Bergeron, and many others. Because of his musical diversity, his group, The Kareem Kandi Band has a sound that is fresh, innovative, and appeals to a wide variety of audiences.

Growing up in the northwest with its vibrant music scene allowed Kandi the opportunity to study with, listen to, and perform with world class jazz artists residing in the area. Artists such as Tracy Knoop, Jay Thomas, Don Lanphere, Bill Ramsay, and Pete Christlieb had a large impact on Kareem early in his musical education.  After finishing high school Kareem received a full scholarship to Olympic College in Bremerton WA where he earned an Associate in Arts and Sciences Degree. While completing his degree from Olympic College he received another full scholarship to attend Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle WA.  Kareem attended Cornish and continued his music studies with many renowned jazz artists that served on the faculty at the time which included: Jovino Santos Neto, Julian Priester, Hadley Caliman, Dave Peck, Randy Halberstadt, Chuck Deardorf, and Jim Knapp.  Kareem completed his Bachelor’s degree from Cornish in 2002 and since then has been very active as a performer, composer, and teacher.

Also in the band Tracey Evens on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, Jacques Willis on drums. Come enjoy great food, your favorite Beverage, a kid friendly comfortable atmosphere, and World Class Jazz … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

October 24th through the 31st Dmitri Matheny (flugelhorn) will be touring Michigan with an all star lineup of musicians: Tom Knific on bass, Lisa Sung on piano, Sean Dobbins / Jeff Shoup on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Sunday October 26th we will be performing at:

The Clover Room Kalamazoo: an intimate listening room for creatives of all kinds.

We believe that all artists deserve a comfortable and safe space to perform where they can connect with their audience. A minimal artist fee that supports keeping the doors open, pays for our sound engineer, ticketing platform, and marketing of the events is taken off the top of the ticket sales, and then 100% after goes directly to the artists.

October 24th through the 31st Dmitri Matheny (flugelhorn) will be touring Michigan with an all star lineup of musicians: Tom Knific on bass, Lisa Sung on piano, Sean Dobbins / Jeff Shoup on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Saturday October 25th we will be performing at:

"The Blue LLama Jazz Club & Restaurant presents live music & curated cuisine and cocktails 5 days a week, featuring Afro-Caribbean cuisine, designed by James Beard Award-winning Chef JJ Johnson. Reserve a table or walk in for a seat at the bar at this destination music venue and restaurant in downtown Ann Arbor. The Blue LLama connects the “Love of Food” and the “Love of Music” to offer one of the most unique and exciting dining and listening experiences in the Midwest."

October 24th through the 31st Dmitri Matheny (flugelhorn) will be touring Michigan with an all star lineup of musicians: Tom Knific on bass, Lisa Sung on piano, Sean Dobbins / Jeff Shoup on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Friday October 24th we will be performing at:

The Block by West Michigan Symphony

The Block is a 115-seat listening room for the musically curious located on the second floor of the Russell Block Building in downtown Muskegon. Its core 12-concert series includes regional, national and international artists as well as WMS musicians. During summer The Block hosts a sold-out jazz series featuring legendary regional drummer Tim Froncek and a changing cast of musician colleagues.

A rarity in the orchestra industry and unheard of in a community this size, The Block serves as a exceptional alternative venue complementing the WMS’s mainstage orchestra offerings at the nearby historic Frauenthal Center.

In addition to The Block’s primary performance series, it serves as the home for several youth music ensembles: Debut Strings and Premier Stringsand the West Michigan Symphony Children’s Choir. WMS makes the venue available for rental on open days or nights.

CANCELED … Monday 10.20.25 the Chris Bickley Quartet at Olympia Jazz Central We are rescheduling at a later date. Chris has performed at the Montreux International Jazz Festival (Switzerland), North Sea Jazz Festival (Netherlands), Bix Beiderbecke Festival (Iowa), Detroit Montreux Jazz Festival (Michigan), and Carnegie Hall (New York). A graduate of  Interlochen Arts Academy, he has served as the Director of  Jazz at Central Michigan University and Northwestern Michigan College, and has performed with many jazz legends including Woody Herman, Bob James, Herbie Hancock, Mel Torme, Louie Belson and more.

This dynamic show will feature Eugene Bien on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, and Ronnie Bishop on drums, and Chris Bickley on saxes.

Showtime is 7-9:30 PM

Cover Charge $15- 30 … No one turned away for lack of funds.

All ages until 9PM

Eagles is members and guests club … so hit "going" to be our guest. VISITORS WELCOME!

If you have a question about the concert, please post it here or email olyjazzcentral@gmail.com

About Olympia Jazz Central:

The Olympia Jazz Central mission is to sustain and support South Sound Jazz events such as concerts, education/workshops, artist collaboration and more. OJC also sponsors a youth scholarship program. We've been connecting musicians with audiences, teachers with students and just gettin' in the groove together since 2009. Olympia Jazz Central is a 501C3. We are 100% volunteer operated and we rely on donations to keep the jazz train chuggin' along

This week 10.20.25 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s is cancelled due to SeaHawks NFL Monday Night Football. See you next week.

The Chris Bickley Trio featuring: Jonas Myers - keys, Osama Afifi - bass, and Chris Bickley on sax. This is a debut of these three talented artist collaborating together to perform their unique interpretations of some classic jazz compositions. Come enjoy a selection of your favorite wine, cheese plates, in a warm comfortable atmosphere. Hope to see you!

Every Thursday evening The Bishop Hotel presents Port Townsend’s premier jazz group Harbor Jazz performing a mix of jazz standards, latin, and Bossa Nova’s for your listening pleasure. This week Thursday 10.16.2025 features guest saxophonist Chris Bickley. Enjoy your favorite beverage and great food all in a comfortable relaxing atmosphere. Hope to see you!

Wine Down Wednesday w/Jazz @ Table 47 at the Ocean 5 complex in Gig Harbor. $12 flatbreads, 1/2 off draft wine, and LIVE JAZZ featuring Brian Monroney on guitar, Wayne Bliss on bass, Dave Austin on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come join us for a relaxing evening with awesome food, refreshments, and LIVE JAZZ. Hope to see you!

This week 10.13.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features the Chris Bickley Quartet with returning original Monday Jazz keyboard artist Eugene Bien. We are delighted to have him returning. Eugene is a skilled keyboardist, well-versed in a multitude of musical styles. In addition to performing with nationally-acclaimed musicians, like Paul Brown, David Lanz, Ronnie Laws, Tom Braxton, Andy Narrell, Greg Adams, Steve Oliver, and Jeff Kashiwa, he is busy with clients, engineering their CDs and demos out of his home studio. Eugene’s philosophy about playing has made him a busy musician. “I’ve never believed that being the best in any one style was the way to go. It’s infinitely more useful to play many styles well, instead of concentrating on a single type of music. It definitely gets you more work that way!” This approach has made him a sought- after session player as well. With an easy-going nature, and desire to please both audience and fellow band members, Eugene finds the Pacific Northwest a perfect place to make a living, doing what he loves the most: playing and creating music!

Also in the band Ronnie Bishop on drums, Jaymes Dunlap on bass, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite Beverage, a kid friendly comfortable atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 10.6.2025 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s presents a CANNONBALL ADDERLY TRIBUTE featuring Tracy Knoop on alto sax. Tracy Knoop is one of the top Jazz musicians in the PNW. A Berklee College of music graduate, Tracy has performed with the Tommy Dorsey tribute orchestra and bands led by Mel Torme, Ray Charles and Natalie Cole.

The band includes Osama Afifi on bass, Brian Monroney on guitar, and Dave Austin on drums on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

Come enjoy great Jazz with Chris Bickley on sax and Eugene Bien on keyboards at one of Seattles premier restaurants in the historic MayFlower Park Hotel. The Reserve at Andaluca in Seattle is a Mediterranean-inspired retreat where elegance meets vibrant energy. This sophisticated venue offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for live music, flavorful cuisine, and an unforgettable evening downtown.

Friday & Saturday Jazz Supper Club
Join us on Friday and Saturday nights for our jazz supper club, where live music pairs with a specially curated menu highlighting Andaluca favorites and fresh Pacific Northwest seafood. Every evening is designed to delight the senses and create an extraordinary dining experience in the heart of Seattle.

Hope to see you! … Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 9.29 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s features guest artists Jim Cochran on keyboards and Malo Castro on Latin Percussion. Jim has been a part of the Northwest music scene since 1977 beginning his professional career in the funk band Readymade Family while still in high school. After additional training at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and the Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle Jim was invited to join an established a corporate casual band by the name of OASIS. After spending more than a decade refining his performance skills at some of the Puget Sounds most elite parties Jim was next asked to put together the house band for Legends in Concert at the Muckleshoot Casino in Auburn, Washington where he performed for the next 4 years. During that time Jim met Aaron Hennings while performing with the Groovin' Higher Jazz Orchestra (GHJO) as their principal pianist. Aaron and Jim went on to perform at many of the Northwests larger casinos with the Randy Linder Band. Jim later met Tracey Hooker in GHJO. Osama Afifi was referred by a mutual friend and the rest, as they say, is history.

Malo Castro, voted twice as "Best Percussionist" at the Kitsap County Music Awards, he adds the Latin clave and spice to music ensembles throughout the Northwest! With authenticity and keen musicality, Malo is comfortable playing in musical settings from rock, to jazz to Latin and Brazilian music. He has created several groups in the area, including Trombanga and Clave con Jazz; and has worked with the prestigious Johnny Conga. Malo is the founder, manager and "Papa" of Wepa!

Also in the band Peter Sams on bass, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite Beverage, a kid friendly comfortable atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

This week 9.22.25 Monday Jazz @ Brother Don’s will feature legendary saxophonist Pete Christlieb along with his wife Linda Small Christlieb. Born into a home filled with classical music, there was little question about Pete Christlieb’s career path. Pete’s father, Don Christlieb was a world renowned double reed player. His distinctive sound was heard on more than 750 productions over 50 years at 20th Century Fox.

Pete started working professionally just out of High School. He did gigs at the Lighthouse as a sub for his teacher Bob Cooper. His father took Pete to The Carriage House in Burbank, (Later renamed to Chadnies) to sit in with pianist Jimmy Rowles. Jimmy liked his playing and became a big influence on Pete’s conception. Jimmy trained Pete in his unique approach to jazz, inviting him to come by and sit in on Sundays. Sarah Vaughan came in to perform several times. They became friends for many years. He met Carmen McRae and was able to play and record with her too.

Just out of high school Pete went on the road with the Sy Zentner band. Then, Sy Zentner lead to Della Reese, then Woody Herman, Louie Bellson and Pearl Bailey. He went on to play an album with Sonny Criss & then on the road with Chet Baker. (Chet still owes Pete $300 and gas money back to L.A.)

It was a seven year sprint. “It was like swinging from one vine to the next. one band would end and the next would begin.” Pete was ready for a change. He had been playing with Louie Bellson “He was like a father and a best friend,” Pete said of his association with Bellson. In those days serial TV shows would vacation in other towns during the summer, mostly to get out of New York. Carson would take the Tonight Show to Los Angeles.” Carson productions was looking for musicians to fill out the band stand in Los Angles and asked Louie for some players to come in. He recommended Christlieb for the two week gig and again the next year. When the tonight show moved to Los Angels Pete was asked to join the band on a permanent basis, that became 20 years with the tonight show.

With the tonight show taping at 6 pm Pete had time to work on other shows and other networks. First it was the Glen Campbell show on CBS. Then came the Bill Cosby Show and Sonny & Cher and many other verity shows of the day. He played on Star Trek for almost 2 decades. “Gene Rodenberry wanted a full orchestra and insisted on having no less than a 60 piece symphony play behind his episodes.”

Pete was a regular at Dante’s , The Baked Potato and Al Fonses playing with other jazz greats like his favorites, Frank Rossolino and Conte Condoli.

Pete started Bosco records, his great dane’s namesake, and recorded his first solo Album, Self Portrait in 1981. These were followed by Going My Way & Dino’s Live and several others. Pete is well known for his albums with other tenor sax greats Bob Cooper, Warne Marsh, Gene Ammons, Don Lamphere, Hadley Caliman, Ferdinand Polvel, Ernie Watts & Rickey Woodard. Pete produced records for other artists including Louie Bellson, Don’t Stop Now which earned him one of three Grammy Nominations for best jazz soloist.

He recorded an album with Freddy Hubbard. and has featured solos on Records and CDs like Natalie Cole’s “ Unforgettable.” The TV show, Family Guy featuring the Ron Jones Orchestra was recently added to his long list of credits. Pete continues to record with well-known musicians and recording artists. He recently played on CDs with artists such as Sammy Nestico, Bill Holman Band, Michael Buble, Rachel MacFarlane and Seth MacFarlane.

Joining Pete his wife Linda Small Christlieb on Trombone. The career of Linda Small spans the gamut from big band to symphonic work. She received her Bachelors degree from the New England Conservatory and additional credits from Berklee School of Music and Dartmouth. She has performed with the Boston Pops Orchestra, Boston Ballet, Detroit Symphony, Opera ala carte, as well as Symphonies both in Portland Maine and Oregon.

In the jazz arena she has played with Emil Richards, Super Sax, Don Menza, Buddy Childers, Lennie Stack, Scott Whitfield, Seth MacFarlane/ Ron Jones Influence Band, among others..Linda has recorded with various Motown artists such as Leslie Uggams, Gladys Knight & the Pips, The Dramatics, The Stylistics, Stevie Wonder.

Linda can be heard on the trombone album, “The Geezer Strikes” with Mike Suter & Slidewerke. She worked on the TV show Family Guy for 3 1/2 years and performed in various festivals including the Montreux Jazz Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival, Salt Lake City & Mt Hood Jazz Festivals.

Also in the band David Lee Joyner on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, Mark Ivester on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax. Come enjoy great food, your favorite Beverage, a kid friendly comfortable atmosphere, and World Class Jazz … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

Join us for Sunday Jazz Brunch @ Spirits Bar & Grill at the Old Alcohol Plant Inn in Port Hadlock. Sunday 9/21/2025 featuring the Dirk Anderson Trio. Dirk has played bass for over 50 years, from blues to bluegrass, rock to swing. Since moving to Port Townsend in the mid-oughts he has focused on playing jazz, favoring duos, trios and small combos, and plays regularly with various musicians from the Port Townsend jazz community and beyond. Also in the band Jonas Myers on keyboards and Chris Bickley on sax.

Come check out Tall & Small an 11 piece band led by legendary saxophonist Pete Christlieb along with his wife Linda Small Christlieb.

Come hear Karl & Friends perform a wide variety of R & B, Soul, Rock, Funk, and all your favorite songs. Karl Moffit on guitar & vocals, Al Alto on guitar & vocals, Mark Steele on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, Ronnie Bishop on drums, and Chris Bickley on sax.

Enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a kid friendly comfortable atmosphere, and MUSIC 6 days a week … Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar

Every Thursday evening The Bishop Hotel presents Port Townsend’s premier jazz group Harbor Jazz performing a mix of jazz standards, latin, and Bossa Nova’s for your listening pleasure. This week Thursday 9.18.2025 features guest saxophonist Chris Bickley. Enjoy your favorite beverage and great food all in a comfortable relaxing atmosphere. Hope to see you!

This week 9.15.2025 Monday Jazz features guest artist Tracey Hooker. Tracey is a Grammy Award winning Trumpeter from the Puget Sound area. Mr. Hooker is a graduate of Regents College (SUNY). A 22-year veteran of the United States Navy Music Program, Tracey has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe as a featured trumpet soloist. Mr. Hooker is well-versed in all styles of music and has conducted numerous trumpet clinics worldwide ranging from elementary to college level. He remains continually booked with a number of High School and College Bands as guest solo artist. Tracey currently performs as Lead Trumpeter with the Olympia Jazz Senators, Olympia's own swing and the blues band 7 on 7. Additionally he performs as a sideman with many local groups as well as more notable groups such as The O'Jays, Frankie Valli, Solomon Burke, Arturo Sandoval, Bobby Shew, Mic Gilette, Stan Mark, the San Diego Symphony and the Florida Symphony. Additionally, Tracey is an adjudicator and member of the Washington Music Educators Association. Tracey is a Trumpet Artist for the Cannonball Music Company and endorses Marcinkiewicz mouthpieces. Despite Tracey's busy schedule, he makes time to teach privately from his home studio.

The Band is “The Hook Me Up Band” with Osama Afifi on bass, Jim Cochran on keys, Chris Bickley on sax, and Aaron Hennings on drums. Enjoy great food, your favorite beverage, a comfortable kid friendly atmosphere, and WORLD CLASS JAZZ. Hope to see you!

Check out all of the great Monday Jazz at: https://www.chrisbickleyjazz.com/calendar