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 February 5th
Jason Finkelman Presents: Improviser’s Exchange
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5:30 p.m.
Jason Finkelman curates an evening of spontaneous creativity, bringing together local improvisers for a unique performance. Expect the unexpected as these artists explore the boundaries of sound.
The Urbana Hootenanny
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
The Urbana Hootenanny offers a night filled with folk music, storytelling, and a sense of community. Join local musicians for an acoustic jam session that celebrates the heart of Urbana’s music scene.
Guest Lecture – Kimberly Mack
► The University of Illinois School of Music // free // 7 p.m.
Join us for an enlightening evening with Kimberly Mack, as she shares insights from her book, Time’s Up discussing the impact of the Black rock band Living Colour on music and culture, offering a deep dive into the stories behind the songs.
Tuesday February 6th
Leon Lewis-Nicol Trio
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Leon Lewis-Nicol Trio brings a vibrant blend of jazz to Rose Bowl Tavern, infusing each performance with rhythmic sophistication and melodic exploration.
Black History Month: Jean-René Balekita and Afro D, with Students from Hip-Hop Collective
► The University of Illinois School of Music // free // 10 a.m.
Celebrate Black History Month with Jean-René Balekita and Afro D, alongside talented students from the Hip-Hop Collective.
Black History Month: Open Conversation with Jean-René Balekita and Pete Shungu
► The University of Illinois School of Music // free // 10 a.m.
Engage in an open conversation with artists Jean-René Balekita and Pete Shungu as they discuss their music, influences, and the role of art in social change.
Jupiter String Quartet with Soyeon Kate Lee, piano
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $10 to $60 // 7:30 p.m.
The Jupiter String Quartet teams up with pianist Soyeon Kate Lee for an evening of classical masterpieces, showcasing the depth and beauty of chamber music.
Caley Conway & Cathedral Becomes Tomb & Jason Finkelman.+Larry Gray
► Gallery Art Bar // free // 7 p.m.
Wednesday February 7th
Jazz Jam
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 10 p.m.
The Jazz Jam at the Rose Bowl Tavern is the perfect spot for musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike to come together and celebrate the spontaneity and collaboration of jazz.
Sam Bush
► Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts // $21 // 7 p.m.
Mandolin virtuoso Sam Bush takes the stage, offering a night of bluegrass, newgrass, and beyond. Bush’s legendary performances are a testament to his status as a pioneer of the genre.
Thursday February 8th
EDITOR’S PICK: CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend: Andrew Duncanson & Friends Acoustic Showcase
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Andrew Duncanson and friends gather for an intimate acoustic showcase, part of the CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend, celebrating the rich traditions of folk music.
EDITOR’S PICK: CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend: Hannah Rose and the Sweet Nothings
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
Hannah Rose and the Sweet Nothings offer a soulful performance, blending folk, blues, and Americana, as part of the CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend.
Krannert Center Uncorked with Dexter O’Neal and The Funk Yard
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // Free // 5 p.m.
Dexter O’Neal and The Funk Yard bring their infectious blend of funk, soul, and R&B to the Krannert Center, promising an evening of grooves that will get you on your feet.
Afro D and Special Guests
► Gallery Art Bar // free // 7:30 p.m.
Afro D, alongside special guests, promises an evening of vibrant rhythms and melodies.
The Black Violin Experience
► Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts // $32 to $50 // 7:30 p.m.
The Black Violin Experience merges classical music with hip-hop, challenging stereotypes and encouraging unity through the power of music.
Friday February 9th
Bach’s Lunch Concerts
► Springer Cultural Center // free // noon
Enjoy a midday musical escape with Bach’s Lunch Concerts with the Champaign Park District. This week features classic rock and country music from the Mahomet Music Club.
Erik Lund’s Jazz Friends
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Erik Lund’s Jazz Friends gather for an evening of classic jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing the talent and improvisational skills of local musicians.
Wind Conducting Symposium
► The University of Illinois School of Music // free // 7 p.m.
The Wind Conducting Symposium presents a unique opportunity for conductors and musicians to explore the art of wind band conducting, featuring workshops and performances.
The Impalas
► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.
The Impalas bring their rockabilly and blues influences to Huber’s West End Store, promising a night of high-energy music that pays homage to the classics.
The Magic of Motown
► The Virginia Theatre // $39 to $79 // 7:30 p.m.
Experience The Magic of Motown, a celebration of the legendary sounds that shaped a generation, featuring timeless hits and unforgettable melodies.
EDITOR’S PICK: CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend: Gospel of Qui
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
The Gospel of Qui brings soul-stirring gospel music to the CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend, offering uplifting melodies and harmonies that resonate with the spirit.
The Ex-Bombers
► Pour Brothers // free // 8 p.m.
The Ex-Bombers deliver their unique blend of noir rock and psychedelic cabaret, creating an atmosphere that’s both mysterious and electrifying.
EDITOR’S PICK: CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend: Haki N Dem
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 10 p.m.
Haki N Dem take the stage with their blend of folk, blues, and soul, part of the CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend, showcasing the diversity of American roots music.
Saturday, February 10th
Music with Banks, Bridgewater, & Lewis Fine Arts Academy
► Urbana Public Library // free // 11 a.m.
Enjoy a morning of music with the talented students of Banks, Bridgewater, & Lewis Fine Arts Academy, showcasing their skills and dedication to the arts.
EDITOR’S PICK: CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend: Bluegrass Jam, Adrian & Meredith, Neon Grass Lighters, Beth Bombara, The Bashful Youngens
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 1 p.m.
The CU Folk & Roots Festival Winter Weekend continues with a bluegrass jam and performances by Adrian & Meredith, Neon Grass Lighters, Beth Bombara, and The Bashful Youngens, celebrating the vibrant spirit of folk and roots music in our community.
Duke Deuce
► Canopy Club // $20 to $35 DOS // 10:30 p.m.
Duke Deuce takes the stage at Canopy Club, bringing his energetic rap performances and Memphis crunk revival sound to Champaign-Urbana’s music scene.
Latin American Ensemble
► The University of Illinois School of Music // free // 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
The Latin American Ensemble showcases the rich musical traditions of Latin America, featuring a diverse repertoire that spans genres and eras.
Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra: Celebration: Happy Birthday, Bruckner!
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $10 to $40 // 7:30 p.m.
Join the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra for a celebration of Bruckner’s legacy, featuring some of his most beloved works in a tribute to the composer’s genius.
The Magic of Motown
► The Virginia Theatre // $39 to $79 // 7:30 p.m.
The Magic of Motown returns for another night of soulful classics, bringing the sounds of Detroit to the heart of Champaign-Urbana.
Sunday February 11th
Occasional Cajun Band
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 4 p.m.
The Occasional Cajun Band brings a taste of Louisiana to Urbana, offering an afternoon of lively Cajun music that’s sure to get your feet tapping.
Rose Bowl Big Band
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 7 p.m.
End your weekend on a high note with the Rose Bowl Big Band, delivering classic big band and swing tunes that capture the golden age of jazz.
