Show List

Monks Jazz Club's Upcoming Shows

The Jazz Purveyor Presents: Helen Sung Big Band "Oracles"

The Jazz Purveyor Presents: Helen Sung Big Band "Oracles"

Fri, May 08

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for The Jazz Purveyor Presents: Helen Sung Big Band "Oracles"! A SPECIAL ALBUM PRE-RELEASE EVENT Helen Sung presents Oracles with a star-studded Texas Big Band Trumpets – Matt Collins, Mike Sailors, Tito Carillo, Isaac Pittinger Trombones – Andre Hayward, Kevin Hrabak, Judah Guerra, Demetrius Thornton Saxophones – Seth Carper, Matthew Chavez, John Ellis, John Mills, Andrew Gutauskas Piano – Helen Sung Bass – Sam Pankey Drums – Quincy Davis When pianist and composer Helen Sung received the opportunity to arrange for the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra in 2016, it started her on a journey in large ensemble writing that is now culminating with the release of her debut big band album Oracles (Sunnyside Records, June 12, 2026). Paying tribute to the jazz masters who were her mentor-teachers during her studies at the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance (now the Herbie Hancock Institute), Sung presents musical portraits dedicated to some of the greatest icons of jazz which will be performed by some of the brightest stars on today's Lone Star jazz scene. Jazz giant Wynton Marsalis writes about the album in his liner notes: “Helen Sung is a shining example of the heroic journey to self-realization through the art of Jazz. As a soloist, arranger, composer and bandleader she [Helen] has developed an expansive vocabulary that encompasses the richness, virtuosity, freedom and humanity that defines the best jazz…the little details that define our music are well represented and attended to with care and intelligence. That’s why this is a great listen…All you have to do is check it out.” Helen Sung's Oracles is created with the support of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation; additional funding comes from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. A Houston native and UT grad, Helen is an award-winning artist now living in New York City. She was mentored by legends like Ron Carter and Clark Terry, and has been featured in major jazz festivals including Newport, Detroit, Monterey, SFJAZZ, and at Carnegie Hall. She now tours globally as an acclaimed performer and educator, and was recognized with UT's prestigious E. William Doty Distinguished Alumna Award. Brought to you by The Jazz Purveyor ––––––––––––––– NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
The Jazz Purveyor Presents: David Lee Jones

The Jazz Purveyor Presents: David Lee Jones

Sat, May 09

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for The Jazz Purveyor Presents: David Lee Jones! David Lee Jones – Saxophone Joao Camargo – Piano Ryan Hagler – Bass Daniel Dufour – Drums 2x Grammy-winning saxophonist, flautist, composer & arranger David Lee Jones is a New York based musician and recording artist bringing his bluesy brand of soulful swing to the city of Austin. David was born and raised in the Settegast area of Houston, TX, growing up alongside Jazz Messenger Ku-umbwa Frank Lacy, and attended Texas Southern University (home of the Ocean of Soul) alongside Kirk Whalum. Jones then headed to Berklee College of Music where he was recognized with the Quincy Jones Award for Outstanding Musicianship, and came up with classmates including: Branford Marsalis, "Big Chief" Donald Harrison, Walter Beasley, Cyrus Chestnut, and Wallace Roney, to name a few. His career flourished when he moved to NYC in 1990. He first worked with organist "Brother" Jack McDuff, then with Jerome Richardson on the hit musical 'Black and Blue,' and later had another Broadway appearance in 'Shuffle Along (Story of Noble Sissie)'. He soon joined R&B singer Phyllis Hyman (also playing keyboards) with whom he played with until her passing. In 1992 he became a regular call for the award-winning Mingus Big Band. Jones was a core collaborator with the critically acclaimed jazz/rap group Digable Planets, touring and appearing on numerous television programs including MTV, Arsenio Hall, Jay Leno, The Tonight Show with David Letterman. He performed at the Grammys in 1994, the year Digable Planets won for "Best Rap Group or Duo" and Mingus Big Band was nominated for "Best Large Ensemble" for the album "Gunslinging Birds" (with Settegast 'homie' Lacy). David played and wrote all of the featured interludes and horn arrangements for the Planets' second album release "Blow Out Comb". His impressive and extensive credits don't end there -- he's also performed and recorded with many artists including Sade (touring as an opening act), Sun Ra Arkestra, George Benson, Clark Terry, Stanley Turrentine, Jordin Sparks, Melba Moore, Jennifer Holliday, Anita Baker, Duke Ellington Orchestra, The Cab Calloway Orchestra, Jimmy McGriff, The Dells, The Chi-Lites, Shirley Scott, Jean Carne, Roy Ayers and Aaron Neville. Jones has been on camera in various films, such as “Everyday” starring Leiv Schrieber & Helen Hunt. He's been featured at major festivals including Montreaux Jazz, Montreal Jazz, Glastonbury, Pori Jazz, North Sea, Nice Jazz, JVC Jazz Festival (now Newport), Palais Du Sport (Netherlands), Roskilde (Denmark), to name a few; and he's even backed Rod Stewart on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. David maintains his east coast residence as a professional musician and educator, working regularly in Harlem and across NYC, New Jersey, and Boston while also performing abroad. He is pleased to be back home in Texas to share his extensive and experience-refined artistry. Presented by The Jazz Purveyor. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
TXST Mercedes Solis | Bachelors Recital

TXST Mercedes Solis | Bachelors Recital

Sun, May 10

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for TXST Mercedes Solis | Bachelors Recital! Mercedes Solis – Bass Joshua Jaime – Alto/Tenor Saxophone Luke Blackburn – Piano Noah Luna – Drums Mercedes Solis is bassist born and raised in Austin, TX. After graduating from James Bowie High School she attended Austin Community college, completing her associates in 2024, studying with Dr. James Suter, Jacob Wise, and Dr. Steven Sodders. She is currently completing her Bachelor of Jazz Performance degree from Texas State University where she studies under Dr. Utah Hamrick and Tito Carillo. Mercedes is the founder of Women of Jazz TX and a member of the Austin Federation of Musicians Local 433. She has performed alongside some of the most outstanding national and local musicians of our time such as Elias Haslanger, Tito Carillo, Daniel Dufour, Peggy Stern, Hank Hemsoth, Mara Kaye, Matt Berger, Bruce Saunders, Rosie Flores, Jim Stringer, Mark Scott III, and Sam Howden. As a member of the Dirty River Jazz Band based in San Antonio, TX, she has toured the country with them and The Grand Ol’ Production Company for their “Grand Ol’ Americana Show” and “Grand Ol’ Christmas Show” productions. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 11:45 PM, Show at 12:00 PM.
TXST Gaspar Apolinar | Bachelor Recital

TXST Gaspar Apolinar | Bachelor Recital

Sun, May 10

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for TXST Gaspar Apolinar | Bachelor Recital! Gaspar Apolinar – Tenor Saxophone Jesús Ruiz – Alto Saxophone Cesar Torres – Trombone James Rubino – Piano Braedan Connolly – Bass Nic Chacon – Drums Gaspar Apolinar is a saxophonist based in San Marcos, Texas, and a current student at Texas State University. Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, Gaspar picked up the saxophone at the age of 13 and fell in love with jazz shortly after. Now, Gaspar spends his time pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Performance, studying with various great musicians and educators such as Tito Carrillo, Carter Arrington, Dr. Joey Colarusso, and currently, award-winning saxophonist Joel Frahm. Gaspar's playing blends the intense and passionate sounds of saxophonists such as John Coltrane and Bob Berg with the fluid and melodic playing of Ralph Moore and Sonny Stitt, establishing him as a unique sound in the Central Texas jazz scene. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 1:45 PM, Show at 2:00 PM.
Nellie McKay

Nellie McKay

Sun, May 10

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Nellie McKay! Nellie McKay – Vocal and Piano Nellie McKay has released an eclectic bunch of critically acclaimed albums, her songs and sound ranging from jazz to pop to indefinable, and with her latest, HEY GUYS, WATCH THIS, ably assisted by The Carpenter Ants, she taps into the soulful sounds of West Virginia. Coming soon, the GET AWAY FROM ME demos on Omnivore Records. She's won a Broadway Theatre World Award for Polly Peachum in The Threepenny Opera, co-created/starred in off-Broadway's Old Hats, created musical biographies of Barbara Graham, Rachel Carson, Joan Rivers, & Billy Tipton ('Best Concerts of the Year' - The New York Times). As well as acting in the films PS I Love You & Downtown Express, Nellie provided music for Rumor Has It, Monster-In-Law, Last Holiday, Gasland, Private Life, & PS I Love You. Her TV appearances include David Letterman, Conan O'Brien, Craig Ferguson, The View, and Jimmy Dore, and her music has been heard on Mad Men, Weeds, Boardwalk Empire, Grey's Anatomy, NCIS, and Nurse Jackie. Most recently Nellie was nominated for an Ovation Award for her performance in Ethan Coen's A Play is a Poem at the Mark Taper Forum. McKay is a recipient of PETA's Humanitarian Award for her dedication to animal rights, & she is a vocal critic of endless war, capitalism, & the two-party system that sustains them. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
Julie Slim & Rendezvous | Women of Note: Songs & Stories

Julie Slim & Rendezvous | Women of Note: Songs & Stories

Tue, May 12

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Julie Slim & Rendezvous | Women of Note: Songs and Stories! Julie Slim – Vocals Shawn Ellison – Piano Paul Klemperer – Saxophone, Clarinet & Flute Shirley Johnson – Accordion Chris Jones – Upright Bass Joe McCreary – Drums Julie Slim is an Austin-based Lebanese-Palestinian-American world jazz vocalist and actress, who has been in the Austin theater and music scene since 1996, when she was nominated for an I.B. Payne Acting Award for her work in the original children’s show, Deep in the Heart of Texas. In 1999, Julie created a duet Cabaret Act, Cabarageous, with friend and vocalist Donna Lipman, which was featured in the summer Zach Scott Cabaret Series. In 2009, Julie also formed the Arabic band, Layalina in collaboration with Sari Andoni (oud), specializing in classical and folk Arabic music, which was featured in a SXSW World Music showcase in 2010. Julie has been a lead vocalist and clinician for the Austin Jazz Workshop since 2001, spreading the love of jazz to children in elementary schools in and around Austin. She is a member of the Austin Threshold Choir, thresholdchoir.org, an international organization that provides comfort during life transitions through song. Beginning in November 2023, Julie has been a lead vocalist with the Viva Palestina Orchestra, featuring Palestinian music, raising awareness of Palestinian culture. On March 27, 2025, Viva Palestina Orchestra received a music proclamation declaring this day to be Viva Palestina Orchestra Day, during which the VPO performed one of our songs in the City Council Chambers. Since 2013, Julie and her band, Julie Slim & RendezVous, have been performing in and around Austin, creating community and bridging cultures while uplifting and touching audiences wherever they perform. The band specializes in reviving international jazz and pop standards from the early 20th century as well as featuring original songs composed by Shawn Ellison and Julie Slim. Julie Slim & RendezVous has held residencies at Skylark, Shore ATX, and Parker Jazz Club. Additionally, Julie Slim Duo with Shawn Ellison have a residency at Plate by Dzintra that is ongoing for over 4 years. Julie has self-produced several albums with RendezVous under the name Julie Slim, streaming wherever music lives. “Singing is musical storytelling that heals while opening the heart to new possibilities.” NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
AJS Presents: Daniel Durham Quintet

AJS Presents: Daniel Durham Quintet

Wed, May 13

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for AJS Presents: Daniel Durham Quintet! Elena Diaz – Vocals Brian Donohue – Tenor Saxophone Daniel Raynaud – Piano Daniel Durham – Bass TBA – Drums Native Austinite Daniel Durham has been performing on stage for 25 years. At a very young age it was clear that he had the ear to be a musician. As a young teenager, Daniel was performing with some of Austin’s top jazz musicians. In 2008, after years of performing professionally in Austin, Daniel was offered a scholarship to study at the world-renowned New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. His main teachers there included Rakalam Bob Moses, George Garzone, John Lockwood, Cecil McBee, Jamey Haddad, Oscar Stagnaro, Jerry Bergonzi, John McNeil, Jerry Leake, among other world-class musicians. Independently, Daniel has also studied extensively with the great Jovino Santos Neto. After years of intensive training, Daniel returned home to Austin to very quickly become one of Austin’s top-call bassists. His unique harmonic sensibility, intricate knowledge of many world rhythms and keen sense of melody allow Daniel to fit into to any musical situation. From straight-ahead jazz as a founding member of Elias Haslanger’s Church on Monday, to playing salsa, cumbia, son and merengue with Luis Angel Ibañez, forró with Grupo Massa, rock with Alejandro Escovedo, pops with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, the blasphemously avant-garde Tonal Regions, modern Cuban Jazz with Yaniel Matos, Daniel’s bass work always seems to serve the music properly, regardless of style or aesthetic. Due to severe illness and life-threatening health issues, Daniel disappeared from the Austin music scene for several years. By nothing short of a miracle, Daniel fought his way back to health and is performing in Austin regularly. He currently holds a residency at Nica on 4th in downtown Austin. ——— Make a donation to be recognized: Supporter Level: Donate $50 or more, and we'll mention your name as a Supporter of the "AJS Presents: Midweek @ Monks" series, as part of the mission to creating more sustaining performance opportunities for Austin jazz musicians! Sponsor Level: Donate $100 or more, you’ll be recognized as a Sponsor of the "AJS Presents: Midweek @ Monks" series. ——— NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors 7:15 PM, Show 7:30 PM.
The Austin Django Project

The Austin Django Project

Thu, May 14

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Austin Django Project! Jamey Cummins – Guitar Jake Harrell – Guitar Phil Spencer – Bass Alen Cileli – Violin Ben Saffer – Clarinet Lead by Jamey Cummins, The Austin Django Project is a collective of Austin-based guitarists and string players. Honoring one of the greatest to ever do it, the collective brings to life the inspired work of the father of Gypsy Jazz, Django Reinhardt. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
Atlas Maior

Atlas Maior

Fri, May 15

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Atlas Maior! Joshua Thomson – Alto Saxophone, Hulusi Josh Peters – Oud Bendir James Suter - Upright Bass Gray Parsons - Drums Palindromlar is Atlas Maior’s latest creative effort informed by the band’s experiences touring in Morocco during the Spring of 2024. This 10 song full-length vinyl LP (to be released 10/11/25 on Dead Red Queen Records) is an improvised sequel to Atlas Maior’s 2014 effort Palindrome.This evening at Monks Jazz will serve as the band’s 2025 midwest tour send off show, and vinyl release celebration. In 2024 Atlas Maior completed an extensive 12-date tour throughout Morocco, Madrid, and Barcelona while supporting vinyl LP Hadal Deluxe Edition (released 6/7/24) which has garnered positive reviews and media placement from Jazziz Magazine, Medium, PRI The World, New York Daily Music, Jazz Journal, Afropop Worldwide, Song Lines, & in 2019 were named City of Austin Cultural Ambassadors. In 2023 Atlas Maior was a recipient of the City of Austin’s Live Music Fund grant. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
The Brad Leali Jazz Ensemble feat. Carla Helmbrecht

The Brad Leali Jazz Ensemble feat. Carla Helmbrecht

Sat, May 16

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert celebrating the Brad Leali Jazz Ensemble feat. Carla Helmbrecht!


Carla Helmbrecht – Vocals


Brad Leali – Alto Saxophone

Kirill Pudavov – Tenor Saxophone

Aidan Sears – Bari Saxophone


Isidoro Ramos – Trumpet

Sparky Thomason – Trumpet

DJ Rice – Trombone

Demetrius Thorton – Trombone


Claus Raible – Piano

Henry Beal – Bass

Andrew Griffith – Drums


The sensitive and sophisticated vocal stylings of Carla Helmbrecht is the perfect complement to the soulful, blues- and swing-influenced style of the Brad Leali ensemble. Not only do they explore classic jazz standards and original material, but they are able to infuse historical and modern components to their unique arrangements. This dynamic duo will be joined tonight by Brad’s GROOVE-tet, a 10-piece large band with a powerful and swinging sound.


About Brad Leali:

With a unique style and sound that echo the influences of his past, Brad Leali is one of the most notable saxophonists of current times. Leali toured and recorded with numerous jazz greats, including several years with Harry Connick, Jr. and later with the Count Basie Orchestra. Leali was a standing member of the Kennedy Center Honors Band and performed for President Obama’s first inaugural celebration. He tours and is a featured soloist with the Grammy-winning musician and actor, Lyle Lovett. Brad is currently the Professor of Jazz Saxophone at the University of North Texas.


“Saxophonist Brad Leali was among the most soulful and exciting I’ve heard recently.” – New York Times


“His solos are sparkling and Cannonball Adderley influenced.” – Evening Standard (London, England)


About Carla Helmbrecht:

Grammy-nominated singer/song-writer, Carla Helmbrecht, began her love affair with music at a young age. Her recording ONE FOR MY BABY earned a prominent position on Gavin’s Jazz Chart, while BE COOL BE KIND debuted as "the most added jazz record on radio in the nation" and received three Grammy nominations. Carla is a featured artist on numerous other recordings, television and major motion picture films. She lives in San Francisco – performing, recording, teaching. She tours nationally and internationally.


“… imaginative…poetic and sophisticated…She’s hip without being frenetic, laid-back without sounding haphazard, and best of all, the lady swings without sweating…the lyric writer’s best friend.”


– Harvey Siders, JazzTimes


“She exudes warmth in spades…An unusually gifted vocalist, impeccable phrasing…steeped in a swinging jazz sensibility that reminds me of Mel Torme….”

– Carol Archer, R & R Magazine


NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745


Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided!


First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.


Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.

Mitch Watkins Quartet

Mitch Watkins Quartet

Sun, May 17

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Mitch Watkins Quartet! Mitch Watkins – Guitar Paul Glasse – Mandolin Chris Maresh – Bass Mike Gordon – Drums Guitarist/producer/composer/educator, Mitch Watkins is equally at home in both the jazz clubs and the concert stage. A native Texan, Watkins has toured and recorded with many diverse artists, including Lyle Lovett, Jerry Jeff Walker, Alejandro Escovedo, Joe Ely, Austin favorite Bob Schneider, Grammy-winning choral group Conspirare, and the late Leonard Cohen (Watkins accompanied Cohen on his final world tour). Aside from Watkins’ seven recordings as a leader, he has appeared as a sideman on many diverse recordings, and has appeared on major television shows such as “The Tonight Show”, “Late Night with David Letterman”, and, of course, “Austin City Limits”. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
K Flatt & Friends

K Flatt & Friends

Tue, May 19

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for K Flatt & Friends! Kevin Flatt – Trumpet Tony Bray – Saxophone Josh Hugo – Guitar TBA – Keys Chris Loveland – Bass Zach Kursman – Drums This is Kevin Flatt's first K Flatt & Friends gig after prostate cancer surgery. Ready to hit the ground running, K Flatt & Friends is a melodic and groove oriented sextet with a fusion of sounds in jazz, RnB, Neo Soul, and many other genres to make for a very unique and entertaining evening of music. The group performs Kevin Flatt's original music, as well as some favorite pieces from a wide variety of artists.This group is a passion project after being a noted freelance musician and sideman in Austin, TX for over 23 years. Kevin Flatt is also an Austin Winds Artist. The trumpet is a Stage470LT Brushed Copper Large Bell. The Mouthpiece is a custom one-piece Austin Winds Gold Plated Mouthpiece. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
Tony Bray Quintet

Tony Bray Quintet

Wed, May 20

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Tony Bray Quintet! Tony Bray – Saxophones Kevin Flatt – Trumpet and Flugal horn Dan Redner – Piano Alex Freeman – Acoustic Bass Aaron Easley – Drums On May 20th, Saxophonist/Composer Tony Bray brings his brand of acoustic fusion to Monk’s. He is joined by local jazz heavyweights Kevin Flatt on trumpet and frugal horn, Dan Redner on piano, Alex Freeman on bass and his longtime collaborator Aaron Easley on drums. Tony Bray’s music life began in East Tennessee. During those early years his musical adventures included a Summer with the 27th Lancers Drum and Bugle Corp, a Summer at Interlochen Arts Academy and he was the drum major for his High School marching band. During his school years Tony studied jazz improvisation and jazz pedagogy with Jerry Coker at the University of Tennessee between 1981 and 1985. Also studied saxophone with William Scarlett, Bennie Wallace and Warne Marsh at this time. He graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor of Music in Studio Music and Jazz before moving to Los Angeles to study classical composition at California State Northridge. As a freelance musician, he has performed on stages in clubs, casinos and cruise ships all over the world for over 40 years. 20 of those years have been right here in Central Texas as he has been a ‘gun for hire’ for corporate and wedding bands as well as other artists ranging from Henry Brun and the Latin Playerz to The Temptations. He can also often be found in one of the local orchestra pits backing award shows or musicals. As a composer and producer he has put out eight different jazz CDs. The most recent projects are in rotation on KRTU and can be found for download at Apple or Amazon. Look for “Man in the Black Hat-Tony Bray/Toro Flores Quintet” and “ Last Call by TBray and One Too Many.” Links for music downloads as well as links for his app series that teach improvisation can be found at www.tonybraymusic.com. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
Andy Langham Quartet

Andy Langham Quartet

Thu, May 21

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Andy Langham Quartet! Gerry Gibbs – Drums James Suter – Bass Tito Carillo – Trumpet Andy Langham – Piano Andy Langham has been a top call jazz pianist and studio musician in Los Angeles for 15+ years. Currently Andy can been seen touring all over the world as a long time member of the Grammy Award winning Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band. He also has toured with Big Bad VooDoo Daddy, Natalie Cole, Christopher Cross, John Heard, Christian McBride, Jane Monheit, New York Voices, Ray Price, Dewey Redman, Steve Tyrell, and Ernie Watts. Andy has recorded or performed in concert with an extremely diverse group of artists that include John Abercrombie, Gary Bartz, Terence Blanchard, Arthur Blythe, Debby Boone, Randy Brecker, Johnny Bush, Bobby Caldwell, James Carter, Charo, Ravi Coltrane, Larry Coryell, Paquito D’Rivera, Micky Dolenz, Jon Fedchock, The Four Freshmen, Roberta Gambarini, Terry Gibbs, Gerry Gibbs, Tom Harrell, Jon Hendricks, Bill Holman, Flaco Jimenez, Lainey Kazan, Sally Kellerman, Azar Lawrence, Hubert Laws, Dave Liebman, Don Menza, Roy McCurdy, James Moody, Cory Morrow, Emilio Navaira, Willie Nelson, Wayne Newton, Sam Rivers, Carl Saunders, Christian Scott, Jack Sheldon, Bobby Shew, Marvin Smitty Smith, Lew Soloff, Mike Stern, Take Six, Clark Terry, Steve Turre, and Bill Watrous. Andy has appeared on over 150 recordings, including 5 Grammy-nominated albums. He currently teaches Jazz Piano at the Bob Cole Conservatory at California State University Long Beach and at Cal Poly Pomona. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
Miles at 100 with the Tito Carrillo Sextet

Miles at 100 with the Tito Carrillo Sextet

Fri, May 22

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Miles at 100 with the Tito Carrillo Sextet! Tito Carrillo – Trumpet Kevin Ravellette – Saxophone Jacob Martinez – Trombone Ross Margitza – Piano Mercedes Solis – Bass Nicolas Aguon – Drums MILES AT 100 with the Tito Carrillo Sextet - Join us for a special evening honoring the life and legacy of one of the most influential voices in jazz history. On what would have been his 100th birthday, experience the timeless music of Miles Davis as the Tito Carrillo Sextet presents original arrangements of his compositions, spanning his iconic nearly 50-year career—from cool jazz and hard bop to modal and electric innovations. Join Tito as his sextet explores the sounds that reshaped modern music. Tito Carrillo is a trumpeter, composer, and educator whose music seamlessly blends Afro-Caribbean traditions with modern jazz. A native of Austin, Texas, he rose to prominence in Chicago’s vibrant jazz and Latin music scenes of the 90's, earning recognition as a dynamic soloist, bandleader, and recording artist. Praised for his “warm lyric style and technique to burn,” by the Chicago Tribune, Carrillo has collaborated with an impressive range of artists, from jazz greats like Kurt Elling and Paquito D’Rivera to pop icons such as Quincy Jones and Phil Collins. His recordings, including Urbanessence (Origin Records), have received critical acclaim and national radio recognition. In addition to his performing career, Carrillo is a dedicated educator, and currently serves as jazz trumpet professor at Texas State University in San Marcos, where he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians through performance, teaching, and mentorship. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
Ken Vandermark Chicago/Texas Sound Ensemble

Ken Vandermark Chicago/Texas Sound Ensemble

Sat, May 23

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Ken Vandermark Chicago/Texas Sound Ensemble! Ken Vandermark – Tenor Saxophone Jonathan Horne – Electric Guitar Stefan Gonzalez – Vibraphone Matthew Frerck – Double Bass Kory Cook – Drums Ken Vandermark will present new compositions exploring distinct melodic, rhythmic and architectural strategies for improvisers. Vandermark will work with Texas musicians Jonathan Horne (guitar, Austin), Matthew Frerck (double bass, Denton), Stefan González (vibraphone, Denton), and Kory Cook (drumset, San Antonio) in their new group Chicago/Texas Sound Ensemble that debuted last year as part of the No Idea Festival series at Monk's Jazz Club. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
Timothy Lea and the Redloc Collective

Timothy Lea and the Redloc Collective

Sun, May 24

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Timothy Lea and the Redloc Collective!


Timothy Lea – Saxophone, Vocals

Raven Moran – Guitar

Josh Henderson – Keys

D'Shawn Lamkin – Bass

Isaiah Sanders – Drums


Timothy Lea is a Houston-based jazz and R&B musician, composer, and bandleader of RedLoc Music, a collective dedicated to preserving and evolving the sound of Black American music. Through his weekly performances and growing regional presence, Lea has cultivated a warm, soulful atmosphere that blends improvisation, groove, and storytelling. His concerts are known for their energy and authenticity—celebrating the roots of jazz, soul, and gospel while inviting audiences into something deeply human and new. Whether performing at intimate venues or larger stages, Timothy Lea continues to bridge tradition and innovation, honoring the past while shaping the next chapter of live Black music.


NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745


Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.

Hard Proof Presents: Miles at 100 | Bitches Brew

Hard Proof Presents: Miles at 100 | Bitches Brew

Tue, May 26

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Hard Proof Presents: Miles at 100 | Bitches Brew!


Joseph Woullard – Saxophones, Bass Clarinet

Jason Frey – Saxophones

Erik Telford – Trumpet


John Branch – Guitar

Aaron Slater – Guitar


Eddie Torres – Fender Bass

Liam Odell – Bass


Jaron Marshall – Keyboards

Jan Fleming – Keyboards, Organ


Thomas Spampinato – Percussion

John Speice IV – Drums, Percussion

Steve Bidwell – Drums, Percussion


In early 2020, Hard Proof assembled to try something that was a big deviation from the dancefloor-friendly afrobeat explorations they were known for: perform Miles Davis' sprawling, genre-obliterating masterpiece Bitches Brew in its entirety. They rehearsed it once. The grooves were locking in, the energy was building, and then COVID happened. The 50th anniversary of the album came and went, and that rehearsal became a memory of what could have been.


But some things are worth waiting for. May 26th marks what would have been Miles Davis' 100th birthday, and Hard Proof is finally bringing Bitches Brew to life at Monks Jazz. Joined by trumpeter Erik Telford, keyboard wz Jaron Marshall, and other special guests. The band will attempt to capture the electric, free-flowing intensity that made the album revolutionary. It's been five years since that lone rehearsal—and this is a one-night-only event. May 26th, 8pm at Monks Jazz. Come witness them either nail it or stumble into some other magical chaos.


NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745


Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.

AJS Presents: Chase Baird Quartet

AJS Presents: Chase Baird Quartet

Wed, May 27

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for Chase Baird Quartet! Chase Baird – Tenor Saxophone Andy Langham – Piano Aaron Allen – Bass Gerry Gibbs – Drums Part experimental rocker, part classical romantic and part hard-bop devotee, saxophonist and composer Chase Baird has been described as "... the future of jazz music and the saxophone" by Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Randy Brecker. His latest album, A Life Between, covers a vast emotional terrain with a band comprised of modern jazz’s most revered innovators. Pianist Brad Mehldau and drummer Antonio Sánchez are veteran companions alongside new-generation talents Nir Felder, guitar, and Dan Chmielinski, bass. Critics have declared the album “…a truly inspired, dare we say, epic recording complete with progressive singularities and sonic cosmicalities.” Chase has worked as a sideman with pop icon Chaka Khan, legendary Chicago vocalist Bill Champlin as well as indie-rocker Jakob Dylan. In the jazz realm, he has performed or recorded with Chris Botti, Brad Mehldau, Antonio Sánchez, Mike Stern, Antonio Faraò, Mike Clark, Victor Wooten, Thana Alexa, Dennis Chambers, Julian Pollack (J3PO), Dan Tepfer, Thomas Dawson, Steve Lyman and others. During 2017 - 2020, Chase performed as an active member of drummer Antonio Sánchez’s band Migration, recording both saxophone and EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument) on the groups’ acclaimed album Lines In The Sand. He also recorded and toured with multi-generational progressive jazz ensemble Venture, featuring drum legend Mike Clark, multi-instrumentalist Mark Sherman and electric bassist Felix Pastorius. Venture explores hard-bop roots and accents of funk and fusion on their first studio collaboration, Life Cycle, released on Ropeadope Records in May 2018. Chase plays exclusively EWI with all-synthesizer band Circuit Kisser, created by collaborator Dan “Chimy“ Chmielinski. The band’s most recent album, First Kiss, released on La Reserve Records in 2023. When not touring, Chase makes his home in Austin, Texas. ——— Make a donation to be recognized: Supporter Level: Donate $50 or more, and we'll mention your name as a Supporter of the "AJS Presents: Midweek @ Monks" series, as part of the mission to creating more sustaining performance opportunities for Austin jazz musicians! Sponsor Level: Donate $100 or more, you’ll be recognized as a Sponsor of the "AJS Presents: Midweek @ Monks" series. ——— NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors 7:15 PM, Show 7:30 PM.
Sasha Ripley Quintet

Sasha Ripley Quintet

Thu, May 28

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Sasha Ripley Quintet! Sasha Ripley – Tenor Saxophone Jalen Baker – Vibraphone Phineas Davenport – Piano Marwan Ghonima – Bass Gavin Moolchan – Drums Sasha Ripley is a dynamic tenor saxophonist, composer, and educator whose work bridges the rich musical traditions of his Houston upbringing and Russian heritage with contemporary jazz innovation. From an early age, Sasha demonstrated exceptional talent, gaining admission to Houston’s Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and later earning a prestigious World Tour Scholarship to Berklee College of Music. His artistic development was further shaped by immersive study at the Global Jazz Institute under the mentorship of Grammy-winning pianist Danilo Perez, and culminated with a Master’s degree from the notoriously prestigious Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz at UCLA. Sasha’s music is characterized by a deep sense of storytelling, created by melding intricate improvisation with cultural narratives that reflect his diverse background. His newest compositions from his debut album, Music from the People explore themes of identity, community, and transformation. He has performed extensively across the United States and internationally, appearing at renowned venues such as Birdland in New York City, the Blue Note Jazz Festival, the Hollywood Bowl and iconic international cultural centers from Abu Dhabi to Mumbai. Performing with some of the most respected names in jazz—including Herbie Hancock, Dianne Reeves, George Garzone, Marcus Miller, and Christian McBride—Sasha actively expands his horizons by using these experiences to push the music forward. ‘‘Sasha is an extremely talented saxophonist and generational talent.’’ – Godwin Louis NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.
Elias Haslanger | Tribute to Joe Henderson

Elias Haslanger | Tribute to Joe Henderson

Fri, May 29

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Elias Haslanger | Tribute to Joe Henderson! Elias and his all-star band will play the music and celebrate the life and legacy of one of the most important tenor saxophonists of all-time, Joe Henderson. Elias has studied Joe's music for years and will showcase some of his most famous compositions and a few that are off the beaten path for this night of music at Monks. Elias Haslanger – Saxophone Mike Sailors – Trumpet Andy Langham – Piano Ryan Hagler – Bass Daniel Dufour – Drums Over the span of his 30-year music career, native Texan and Austin resident Elias Haslanger has carved a unique and distinguished place in jazz history as a saxophonist, composer, and band leader, whose playing and writing has drawn comparisons to John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Ben Webster, and Wayne Shorter. He has performed, recorded, and toured with many world-class artists including Ellis Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson, Christopher Cross, Charlie Hunter, Asleep at the Wheel, Alejandro Escovedo, Sheryl Crow, Grupo Fantasma, Spoon, The Four Tops, and The Temptations, among many others. Mentored by the legendary saxophonists Harvey Pittel and Dick Oatts, Elias studied saxophone at the University of Texas and then at the Manhattan School of Music. His interest in writing music culminated in a Master’s Degree in Composition at Texas State University in San Marcos. Elias has performed around the United States and Europe at clubs like Snug Harbor in New Orleans, Jazz Alley in Seattle, The Elephant Room in Austin, and The Blue Note in New York. He has also served as a guest artist/lecturer at universities around the nation. Elias has 7 recordings as a leader all of which have been played on radio stations across the world. His 2014 recording LIVE at the Gallery, received 4.5 stars in Downbeat magazine and was listed as one of the best recordings of the year. "Haslanger's freewheeling licks roar with virtuosity and infectious joie de vivre." -Michael Jackson, DownBeat NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
Amina Scott Quartet

Amina Scott Quartet

Sat, May 30

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Amina Scott Quartet! Amina Scott – Bass Jalen Baker – Vibraphone Dayne Reliford – Piano Gavin Moolchan – Drums Amina Scott, born and raised in Oakland, CA, is an upright and electric bassist, composer, and arranger. Her interest in music began at an early age when her grandmother began giving her piano lessons. From then, her love and passion for music has yet to cease, playing electric bass at the age of twelve and was soon playing gigs with local bands in Oakland. In Oakland, Amina has ties to the Oakland Public Conservatory of Music (OPCM) which was started by trombonist Angela Wellman to provide arts and music classes to the Oakland community in an economical way. Through OPCM, Amina was able to take her skills to Lima, Peru to be part a of a group that represented the United States at the first Festival of Music and Dance in the African Diaspora where she played various concerts around Lima and held seminars discussing the music of the African Diaspora in the United States. In 2017, Amina joined the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra led by Adonis Rose. Now based in New Orleans, Amina leads her own band and she has performed with various artists including Dee Dee Bridgewater, Steve Turre, Wessell “Warm Daddy” Anderson, Nicholas Payton, David Murray, Jamison Ross, Joanne Brackeen, Don Vappie, Herlin Riley, Christian Scott Atunde Adjuah, and more. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! First Show: Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm. Second Show: Doors at 9:15pm, Show at 9:30pm.
The 4th Annual Rich Harney Jazz Festival

The 4th Annual Rich Harney Jazz Festival

Sun, May 31

The annual Rich Harney Jazz Festival celebrates musician and prolific jazz composer Rich Harney. Now in it's 4th year, this year's concerts will feature dynamic ensembles playing Rich's original tunes at Monks Jazz. We hope you will join us for this special early afternoon concert. Come in honor and memory of our great friend, swingin' composer, and beloved community member, Rich Harney, and to enjoy some truly great homegrown jazz. ~ with ~ The Daniel Durham Quintet featuring Daniel Durham – Musical Director, Bass Sam Lipman – Woodwinds Marcus Graf – Brass Ryan Davis – Piano Michael Longoria – Drums Solo Piano from Ross Margitza The Alex Coke Quintet featuring Alex Coke – Saxophone and Flutes Bruce Saunders – Guitar Andy Langham – Piano Michael Stevens – Bass Masumi Jones – Drums Can't be there but want to donate to the future of the festival? Please visit: https://www.texasjazzsociety.org/donate and designate your donation to Rich Harney's Memory NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 1:45 PM.
Amanda Bellitto Sextet

Amanda Bellitto Sextet

Sun, May 31

Join us for a live taping and listening-room concert for the Amanda Bellitto Sextet! Amanda Bellitto – Vocals Paulo Santos – Saxophone Thomas Wenglinski – Piano Matt Berger – Guitar Nick Davis –Bass Zach Kursman – Drums – Featuring Guest Artist Kimbo on Violin Originally hailing from Fairfield, Connecticut, Amanda Bellitto is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and educator currently based in Austin TX. Starting early on with a formal training in jazz, she studied with luminaries such as Sheila Jordan. She has built a career spanning many genres including folk, bluegrass and pop. Her artistic pursuits have led to performances across the United States and Australia. NEW ADDRESS | 310 E SAINT ELMO ROAD, UNIT B AUSTIN TX 78745 Please Note: This is a live-taping, so we'll be enforcing a whisper-policy! Cold bottles of still and sparkling water will be available for purchase, but this event is BYOB. Ice will be available if needed, wine keys and 9oz cups provided! Doors at 7:15pm, Show at 7:30pm.