The Overture is a rundown of live music and performances happening in and around Champaign-Urbana each week. All of the information is as accurate as we can publish; however, all shows and performances are subject to change at any time. Thank you for understanding.
Did we miss something this week? Have a show coming up you think we should know about? Email us at [email protected] with the details.
Monday, April 17th
UI Repertory Jazz Orchestra
► Rose Bowl Tavern // FREE // 5:30 p.m.
The Rose Bowl Tavern has partnered with the University of Illinois to proudly present the Jazz at Illinois program’s students during the Winter semester of 2023. Led by esteemed jazz faculty and graduate students, these talented groups are set to captivate and amaze. Join us in witnessing the remarkable results of their hard work and continuous musical growth.
The Urbana Hootenanny
► Rose Bowl Tavern // FREE // 8 p.m.
Every Monday at the Rose Bowl, come hang out with some great musicians. A sort of open mic meets song-share, you can expect a variety of music and performers.
TUESDAY, April 18th
Manthom Phenace on Electric Tuesdays
►The Canopy Club // 8-10 p.m. FREE// After 10 p.m. $5 door
Electric Tuesdays feature open decks, this week with The Shade Collective. At 10 p.m. enjoy unique EDM artist Manthom Phenace.
Editor’s Pick: Bach to Black presented by Rochelle Sennet
►The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // 7:30 p.m.// Tickets $4-$10
Pianist and Professor Dr. Rochelle Sennet will perform a recital featuring Partita in C Minor by Bach, followed by three suites from Black composers: Amanda Aldridge, Harry T. Burleigh, and R. Nathaniel Dett. Dr. Sennet’s series looks to encourage conversations about diversity, inclusion, and equity in classical music.
WEDNESDAY, April 19th
Andrew Binder Trio
► Rose Bowl Tavern // FREE // 5 p.m.
Get primed for music trivia by enjoying the smooth jazz of the Andrew Binder Trio. You can even stick around for Andrew playing in the Jazz Jam at Rose Bowl when trivia ends.
Thursday, April 20th
4/20 at The Bowl
►The Rose Bowl Tavern // FREE // 4:20 p.m.
Roll a fatty and join your fellow tokers, or just come down and watch folks celebrating the electric lettuce! Scheduled performers include Neon Gravel, Amerijuana Happy Hour Hootenanny with Big Daddy Pride & Friends, Blues Deacons with the last set of the night featuring Merry Travelers + JEMM. Watson’s Food Truck will be on hand for your munchies. Visuals by Matt Harsh, and look for free goodies from NuEra Cannabis.
Friday, April 21st
Jeff Helgesen Quintet
► Rose Bowl Tavern // FREE (Tips in Bucket) // 5 p.m.
More jazz is on tap at The Rose Bowl Tavern with local jazz trumpeter Jeff Helgesen and his Quintet featuring Chip McNeill (sax), Paul Johnston (piano), John Hurtubise (bass), and Frank Kurtz (drums).
Saturday, April 22nd
Editor’s Pick: The Claudettes with special guests Los Guapos
►The Rose Bowl Tavern// $10 ADV $15 DOS // 8 p.m.
From Chicago, The Claudettes, bring a big piano sound and along with newcomer crooner Rachel Williams, they’ll create their unique “garage cabaret” music for the Rose Bowl Tavern crowd. Local band Los Guapos are in support.
Sunday, April 23rd
Violins of Hope
►Spurlock Museum // Free // 5:30 p.m.
Violins of Hope showcases a private collection of violins, violas, and cellos that belonged to Jews before and during World War II. The collection serves as a symbol of hope and remembrance. This special performance will feature musical world premieres, shadow puppetry and marionettes, dancers, and visual artists from 7 countries, followed by a dessert reception sponsored by Illini Chabad after the performance.
This special night kicks off a series of events over the next few months. Find out about all of the upcoming events related to Violins of Hope at the C-U Jewish Federation website.
