Smile Politely

The Overture: February 26 – March 3

Derrick Philips
A side profile of a DJ intensely focused on the turntables during a performance, with dramatic flames erupting in the background, casting a warm, fiery glow over the scene. The image exudes the energy of a live electronic music concert.
Inzo on Facebook

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 25th

A person with long, wavy hair is wearing a sleeveless black top, sitting in a thoughtful pose with their chin resting on their hand. They are gazing off to the side against a soft-focus background of neutral tones, with a branch of delicate white flowers to the right, adding a serene and naturalistic element to the composition.
Chelsea Guo

Chelsea Guo, soprano and piano

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $5 to $90 // 7:30 p.m.

Chelsea Guo, a 2022 Young Concert Artists winner with exceptional talents as both a pianist and soprano, will perform a diverse and emotive program that highlights her dual artistry. The concert will feature pieces by Brahms, Clara Schumann, and Rachmaninoff, including both piano works and vocal performances, showcasing her versatility and depth of musical expression.

Monday, February 26th

The image features a person in a vintage black dress with a scooped neckline. Behind them, there is a large, ornate piece resembling a headdress or decorative backdrop with palm-like fronds radiating outward. The person is wearing a light-colored, feathered boa around their neck, adding to the opulence of the scene.
Tigre Reale (1916) on Mubi.Com

Tigre Reale (Silent film)

► Lincoln Hall Theater // free // 7 p.m.

Experience the fusion of classic cinema and live jazz at the silent film screening of “Tigre Reale” (1916), accompanied by Italy’s renowned jazz musicians Stefano Maccagno (piano) and Furio Di Castri (double bass). This unique event, free and open to the public, promises an unforgettable evening at Lincoln Hall Theater.

The Urbana Hootenanny

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.

The Urbana Hootenanny continues its tradition of inviting musicians for a communal night of folk music. It’s a vibrant gathering for sharing tunes and tales.

Tuesday, February 27th

Jim Pugh Quartet

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

Enjoy an early evening of jazz with the Jim Pugh Quartet, bringing sophisticated harmonies and smooth jazz tunes to the Rose Bowl Tavern.

Wednesday, February 28th

The five members of Vine Street Syncopaters lined up against a tan wall, each holding their instruments.
Vine Street Syncopaters

Vine Street Syncopaters

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

Step back in time with the Vine Street Syncopaters for an evening of lively traditional jazz, perfect for swing dancers and jazz lovers alike.

Jazz Jam

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 10 p.m.

The Jazz Jam session invites local musicians to collaborate in a spontaneous celebration of jazz, offering a late-night showcase of talent and improvisation.

The image shows a group of musicians, viewed from behind, seated with their instruments, poised to play. Each musician has a music stand in front of them displaying sheets of music, ready for a performance or rehearsal. The focus is on their posture and the musical environment rather than their individual identities.
University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra on Facebook

University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $4 to $10 // 7:30 p.m.

Under the batons of Matthew Christopher Shepard and assistant conductor Hannah Reitz, the University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra (UIPO), featuring clarinetist Iura de Rezende, will present a captivating evening of classical music. The program includes Wojciech Kilar’s “Orawa,” W. A. Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A Major, and Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 in B Minor (“Unfinished”), showcasing the orchestra’s diverse talent and the rich tapestry of major literature spanning four centuries.

The image features a person set against a plain grey background. They are adorned in a distinctive black jacket that is open at the front. The jacket is eye-catching with large, shiny circles creating a pattern. A silver necklace with a cross pendant is visible around their neck. The overall look is unique and stylish.
University of Illinois School of Music portrait of Dr. Ollie Watts Davis was taken on November 10, 2017

Black History Month: ANCHOR: The Music, the Message, and the Movement of Black American Artists

► Recital Hall, Smith Memorial Hall // free // 7:30 p.m.

A special presentation celebrating Black History Month through music, message, and movement, highlighting the contributions of Black American artists to the cultural landscape.

Canopy Club Discover: The Almas

► Canopy Club // $15 // 7:30 p.m.

The Almas, a hard rock band from New Munster, Wisconsin, known for their energetic performances and compelling music, are set to headline the Discover series at The Canopy Club, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show starting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 22nd, 2024. This event promises an unforgettable night of rock music, supported by the local talent of Ancient Ways, making it an ideal opportunity for fans to explore and add new favorites to their playlists.

Thursday, February 29th

An individual with long, wavy blonde hair is leaning against a wall painted in white and red stripes, wearing a black sleeveless top with graphic designs. The person is positioned in a three-quarter profile to the camera, offering a soft smile, with the background softly blurred, drawing focus to their face. The setting appears to be urban, with a window reflecting sunlight on the left side, suggesting a bright, outdoor environment.
Dakota Danielle on Facebook

Americana Happy Hour featuring Dakota Danielle

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

Dakota Danielle brings her unique blend of country and Americana to the Americana Happy Hour, promising a soulful and melodic performance to kick off the evening.

The individual in the photo is adorned with bold and colorful jewelry, including large earrings, multiple bracelets, and rings. They are striking a pose that suggests contemplation, with one hand placed gently on the side of their face. The warm lighting enhances the rich tones of their skin and the vibrant patterns of their attire, creating an intimate and artistic portrait.
Nadirah Shakoor on Facebook

Krannert Center Uncorked with Nadirah Shakoor

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // 5 p.m.

Relax and unwind with Nadirah Shakoor at Krannert Center Uncorked, where her soulful voice and heartfelt performance will provide a perfect midweek escape.

University of Illinois Wind Orchestra and Hindsley Band

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $4 to $10 // 7:30 p.m.

Experience the powerful sounds of the University of Illinois Wind Orchestra and Hindsley Band as they perform a dynamic range of wind ensemble music.

Pete Shungu playing trumpet wearing a green shirt
Afro D & Global Soundwave’s Facebook event page

Afro D and Special Guests

► Gallery Art Bar // free // 7:30 p.m.

Afro D and Special Guests offer an evening of eclectic music that crosses boundaries, promising a performance filled with energy and diversity.

The band Three Dog Night is on stage. The background is black. The band is six older white men, all dressed in black. Some are playing instruments. Some are singing.
Three Dog Night / The Virginia Theatre

Three Dog Night

► Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts // $49 // 7:30 p.m.

Legendary rock band Three Dog Night brings their iconic hits to the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, offering a night of nostalgia and timeless music.

Solshine Reverie: On the Road (Battle of the Bands)

► Canopy Club // $10-$12 // 7:30 p.m.

The SolShine Reverie: On The Road will feature a competition among local artists including 404, Femi Ishola, Half House, The Hangovers, Mr. Pink, Quantum, Sitrus Sol and Vorborg, with a special performance by Trouble Chasin’. This event offers attendees an opportunity to vote for their favorite performers, potentially influencing the lineup for SolShine Reverie 2024, and a chance to win a 3-Day GA Pass to the festival.

Friday, March 1st

Jordan Kaye’s Django Wrangle

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

Jordan Kaye’s Django Wrangle offers a tribute to Django Reinhardt’s gypsy jazz, bringing together local musicians for a spirited performance.

A group of individuals stands outdoors with a backdrop of leafless trees under an overcast sky. They are dressed in casual attire, with some wearing hoodies and jackets, projecting a relaxed yet confident demeanor typical of a band's promotional image. The setting appears to be a cool weather scene, which, combined with their poses and expressions, gives the photo a casual, edgy vibe.
Safety Always Off on Facebook

EDITOR’S PICK: Safety? Always Off with Dead Foot and Manifest West

► The Space // $10 // 8 p.m.

Dive into the local music scene with Safety? Always Off, Dead Foot, and Manifest West for a night of high-energy performances that promise to electrify The Space.

This is a photo of a person playing an acoustic guitar on a stage. The person is wearing a black t-shirt with a graphic on it. The guitar is a light wood color with a red pickguard. The background is a stage with red and blue lighting. There is a microphone in front of the person.
Tom Grassman on Facebook

Tom Grassman Band

► Boomerang’s // free // 7 p.m.

Tom Grassman Band takes the stage at Boomerang’s, delivering a blend of blues, rock, and soul that’s guaranteed to entertain.

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Joel Honey on Facebook

Joel Honey

► Pour Brothers // free // 8 p.m.

Spend an evening with Joel Honey at Pour Brothers, where his acoustic set will provide the perfect backdrop for a night out.

SubDocta on Facebook

SubDocta

► Canopy Club // $15 to $30 // 9 p.m.

SubDocta brings his signature “West Coast Wobble,” to the Canopy Club, a unique blend of dubstep and hybrid beats that pay homage to his Reno, Nevada roots. Joining the “Left For Dead Tour” and accompanied by talents like Wookalow, Spinion, and Mr. Pink, the evening promises an immersive experience in bass music with SubDocta’s trailblazing sound.

New Twang City

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.

New Twang City brings their country and Americana sound to the Rose Bowl Tavern, offering a night of storytelling through music.

A man singing and playing guitar onstage in orange light
Billy Galt on Facebook

Billy Galt

► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 pm

Blues guitarist Billy Galt delivers a soulful performance at Huber’s West End Store, showcasing his skills and deep blues repertoire.

Saturday, March 2nd

Improvisers Exchange: Sonic Location

► Krannert Art Museum // free // 1 PM

Explore the boundaries of sound and space in this unique performance, part of the Improvisers Exchange series.

A man in a tan shirt and pants sitting down on an outdoor stage playing a black guitar.
Ray Miner

Robin and the Toad

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 3 p.m.

A dynamic band bringing folk and blues to life with their heartfelt performances.

A group of individuals is gathered in a room with a banner reading "Folk & Roots Festival" in the background. They are dressed in casual attire, with several holding musical instruments such as a guitar and a banjo, suggesting they are a band or a group of musicians. The setting has a communal and informal feel, with visible music stands and microphones, indicating a performance or a rehearsal space.
The Coneflowers on Facebook

The Coneflowers: Music Performance for Women’s History Month

► Urbana Free Library // free // 3 p.m.

Celebrate Women’s History Month with the enchanting harmonies of The Coneflowers.

A large ensemble of musicians in formal concert attire is positioned on the stage of a grand concert hall. The hall features opulent wood paneling and an impressive pipe organ in the background, with the orchestra members holding their instruments, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, ready for a performance. The grand chandeliers and the stately architecture of the hall suggest a prestigious venue designed for orchestral music.
Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra on Facebook

Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $10 to $70 // 7:30 p.m.

Experience the majestic sounds of one of Bulgaria’s foremost orchestras in a night of classical music brilliance.

Five women stand on stage performing at a concert. They are dressed in evening attire, with one in a brown long-sleeve mini dress, another in a black dress, the third in a blue sleeveless dress, and the fourth in a black sleeveless dress. Behind them is a screen displaying a serene landscape, and various musical instruments, including keyboards and a drum set, are partially visible on stage.
Girls Next Door

Girls Next Door a capella

► Canopy Club // $6 to $10 // 7 p.m.

The University of Illinois’ premier female a cappella group, Girls Next Door, brings their compelling and dynamic performances to The Canopy Club. With a repertoire spanning nearly every genre, these thirteen passionate women promise an evening that is both captivating and diverse, appealing to audiences of all ages.

Sammy & The Coaltraine

► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 pm

Dive into the world of blues and rock with Sammy & The Coaltraine’s electrifying performance.

James Jones Trio

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.

Enjoy an evening with the James Jones Trio, offering a mix of jazz standards and original compositions.

Sunday, March 3rd

Parkland Chamber Singers and Guitar Ensemble

► McKinley Memorial Presbyterian Church // free // 3 p.m.

A beautiful blend of vocal and guitar music presented by Parkland’s talented ensembles and others. The concert will feature performances by Chamber Singers, Amasong, Unitarian Universalists Choir, CrUUners, McKinley Presbyterian Church Choir and the Guitar Ensemble from Parkland.

A Joint Concert by the Parkland Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Concert Band

► Parkland College (U-wing Cafeteria) // free // 3 p.m.

A collaborative performance showcasing the diverse talents of Parkland College’s music department.

Concerto Urbano Spring Concert

► Recital Hall, Smith Memorial Hall // free // 4 p.m.

An afternoon concert featuring a mix of classical and contemporary pieces.

Spring Voice Area Opera

► Recital Hall, Smith Memorial Hall // free // 7:30 p.m.

Experience the power and beauty of opera with performances by talented vocalists.

A person with long, dark dreadlocks is on stage performing. They are wearing a plain white t-shirt, which contrasts with the dark ink of tattoos visible on their arms. The person is holding a microphone in their right hand, gesturing openly towards the audience with their left hand. Behind them, a banner hangs with words in bold, red font. The backdrop is a dark curtain, and there are bright stage lights casting a glow on the scene, highlighting the performer and creating a dramatic ambiance.
Poundgame Addison on Facebook

Poundgame Addison, Mousepad, IamLostTwo, and Billi Foxx

► The Space // $10 // 7 p.m.

A night of vibrant hip-hop and rap, featuring a lineup of emerging talents.

EDITOR’S PICK: Inzo Visionquest Tour

► The Canopy Club // $18 to $25 // 7 p.m.

INZO, the Chicago-based electronic music producer and DJ, will bring his intricate piano melodies and sophisticated percussion to The Canopy Club in Urbana on Sunday, March 3rd. Fans can anticipate a transcendental evening with the “VISIONQUEST” show, offering an aural journey through INZO’s celebrated tracks like “Overthinker,” alongside Moore Kismet, Blookah, and Lhasa Petik.

Music Editor

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