Smile Politely

The Overture: July 24-30

Derrick Philips
This is a photo realistic image of a person singing on stage with a microphone in hand. The person is wearing a black top with a colorful pattern on it and a silver necklace. The person is also wearing silver hoop earrings. The background consists of blue stage lights.
Ann Wilson on Facebook

Monday, July 24th

This is a photo of a person playing a saxophone in a concert setting. The person is wearing a black suit and a white shirt. The saxophone is gold in color and the person is holding it with both hands. The background consists of other musicians and music stands. The background is blurred to focus on the person playing the saxophone.
Brian Stark on Facebook

Stark/Rebone/Sanchez

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5:30 p.m.

Don’t miss Brian Stark’s grand finale at the Rose Bowl Tavern, before he embarks on his teaching journey at Colgate University in upstate New York. Enjoy a memorable evening as he teams up with renowned bassist Crystal Rebone and Mateo Sanchez, delivering an exciting blend of jazz standards and more.

Documentary: Tangos Revenge

► Independent Media Center // free // 8 p.m.

Movie Night at the Independent Media Center, showing the documentary “Tango’s Revenge” which tells about the rebirth of tango music in the 2000s, featuring one of our faculty, Julian Peralta who was a part of that movement. Peralta will be available for questions after the showing.

The Urbana Hootenanny

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

Every Monday at the Rose Bowl, come hang out with some great musicians. The Urbana Hootenanny is an open mic meets song-share. You can expect a variety of music and performers.

Tuesday, July 25th

This is a photo realistic image of a group of musicians playing string instruments on a stage. The stage has a red curtain in the background and is lit by stage lights. The musicians are seated on black chairs and are playing violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. The musicians are using music stands to hold their sheet music. The foreground of the image shows empty chairs and tables, suggesting that this is a performance venue.
Tango Workshop Orchestra

Faculty and Guests Showcase

► Rosebowl Tavern // free // 8 p.m.

Faculty and Guest Showcase with performances from local band (Bandoneon Massacre) and faculty, including original compositions and arrangements by the faculty.

This is a photo realistic image of a man playing a red electric guitar on a stage with a drum set in the background. The man is wearing a black shirt and is standing in front of a wooden wall. The guitar is red with a white pickguard and has a rosewood fretboard. The drum set in the background is blue with chrome hardware.
Derek Cordoba

Derek Cordoba and G E. I Album Release Party

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

Join G.E.L., a creative ensemble founded by Derick Cordoba in Urbana, Illinois in 2018, for a performance showcasing Cordoba’s original compositions, enriched by the unique musical perspectives of members like Kurt Reeder, Mike Fenoglio, Brian Stark, among others. This event will feature Cordoba on guitar, Fenoglio on saxophone, Emma Taylor on bass, and Mateo Sanchez on drums, celebrating their first album, J&J, which is available for purchase on Bandcamp.

Wednesday, July 26th

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 and bucket // 5 p.m.

Jazz at Rose Bowl on Wednesday with the Vine Street Syncopators. Known for playing New Orleans-style jazz and swing, this band will get you dancing. 

This is a photo of a group of musicians playing in front of a colorful graffiti wall. The musicians are playing various instruments, including accordions, a guitar, and a drum set. The musicians are sitting on a green carpeted floor. The graffiti wall is covered in various colors and designs, including letters and abstract shapes.
Tango Workshop Orchestra

Electro Tango Night

► Casa Del Tango // free // 8 p.m.

Electro Tango Night at Casa Del Tango offers a contemporary take on traditional tango music. This event promises a unique and thrilling experience, blending modern electronic music with the passionate rhythms of tango. Participants experiment with the up-and-coming genre of electronic tango music, similar to Gotan Project and others.

Thursday, July 27th

The image shows a musician playing a guitar on a stage. The musician is wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans, and the guitar is black and white with a strap. In the background, there is a drum set and a keyboard with the brand “KORG” visible. There are also shelves with bottles and glasses. The lighting is dim with a red hue.
Dennis Caravello on Facebook

Americana Happy Hour Featuring Dennis Caravello

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

Join Nashville-based musician Dennis Caravello, originally from Chicago, who crafts modern songs rooted in blues, jazz, country and soul, and experience his unique sound nurtured from his lifelong dedication to the guitar. Celebrate his first full-length body of work, “The Way It Is,” released in 2019 and produced by Evan Pinter, reflecting his journey through music and his deep dive into song craft.

This is a photo realistic image of a group of musicians playing on a stage. The musicians are playing various instruments such as violins, cellos, and accordions. The musicians are seated on chairs and are reading music from music stands. The background consists of a red curtain and stage lighting
Tango Workshop Orchestra

Tango Music Jam

► Rosebowl Tavern // free // 7:30 p.m.

Tango Music Jam, where participants, faculty, and community members play “a la parrilla”, a term which refers to the fastest way to cook (on the grill) as a way to think about creating or improvising arrangements on the fly.

This is a photo of a rock band performing on a stage. The band consists of three members, two guitarists and a drummer. The guitarist on the left is wearing a black leather jacket and a black hat, while the guitarist on the right is wearing a black t-shirt and has long hair. The drummer is in the background and is not clearly visible. The stage is lit with purple and red lights.
Ann WIlson on Facebook

Ann Wilson of Heart and Tripsitter

► The Virginia Theatre // $39.50 to $89.50 // 7:30 p.m.

Experience American rock legend Ann Wilson, lead singer of the iconic band Heart, known for her lyric soprano vocals and opera capabilities, and immerse yourself in the powerful performances that earned her an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Celebrate the timeless hits of Heart, which sold over 35 million records worldwide, from classic albums like ‘Dreamboat Annie’ and ‘Little Queen’, featuring unforgettable singles like ‘Magic Man’, ‘Crazy on You’, and ‘Barracuda’. Austrian shoe-gazer Tripsitter is in support.

Friday, July 28th

The image is a black and white photo of a person with long curly hair wearing a cowboy hat and a button-down shirt. They are standing against a black background. The person is wearing a black cowboy hat with a silver band and a black button-down shirt with silver buttons. Their hair is long and curly, falling over their shoulders.
Clayton Burke on Facebook

Clayton Burke Band Album Release with Cole Bridges and Kenna Mae

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15 suggested donation in bucket // 8:30 p.m.

The Clayton Burke Band is celebrating the release of their new album, promising an evening of fresh music and dynamic performances. Tap your toes to the original folk/country/honky tonk CBB is known for. Joined by Cole Bridges and Kenna Mae, the event will offer a diverse range of musical styles and sounds. Stick around for the rumored return of Chachi and the Banditos at 11 p.m.

Friday Night Jam Sessions

► Champaign Public Library – Douglass Branch // free // 6 p.m.

The Friday Night Jam Sessions at Champaign Public Library are a beloved local tradition. Musicians of all skill levels are invited to bring their instruments and join in, creating a unique and communal musical experience.

Two women and three men are in a band, performing on a sidewalk.
Friday Night Live on Facebook

Friday Night Live

► Downtown Champaign // free // 6 p.m.

Enjoy downtown Champaign every Friday from June through August for 40 North’s Friday Night LIVE, a free public performance series. Experience a diverse mix of music genres like bluegrass, jazz, folk, soul, rock, country, and blues, along with unique street performances and weekly kids’ activities, all thanks to the generosity of Pour Bros. Craft Taproom, Busey Bank, the City of Champaign, and the support of Champaign Center Partnership. Check their Facebook page for lineups close to the day of the event.

Mid October

► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.

Join the dynamic duo Mid-October, comprised of third-generation performer Jon and multi-talented Therese, for a unique, never-repeated performance that adapts to the crowd’s taste and the mood of the event. Witness their unique chemistry, honed in diverse musical backgrounds and perfected in Jon’s kitchen, as they bring versatile shows suited for all ages and musical tastes.

Jay Ferguson Trio

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

The Jay Ferguson Trio is a dynamic ensemble of skilled musicians known for their versatile performances. Lose yourself in their smooth sounds on the Rose Bowl patio.

This is a photo of a group of musicians playing in front of a colorful graffiti wall. The musicians are playing various instruments, including an accordion, a guitar, and a drum set. The graffiti wall is covered in vibrant colors and abstract designs. The musicians are sitting on a green carpeted floor. The image is slightly blurred, likely due to the movement of the musicians.
Tango Workshop Orchestra

Gala Concert with Workshop Participants

► Independent Media Center // free // 8 p.m.

The Gala Concert features performances from workshop participants, showcasing the talent and creativity nurtured during their training. Witness over 30 tango musicians performing repertory coached by some of the world’s most renowned tango musicians. This event features six tango ensembles and showcases participants’ work from the week.

This is a photo of three people standing in front of a beige background. The person on the left is wearing a denim jacket and has shoulder-length hair. The person in the middle is wearing a black hat and a black jacket. The person on the right is wearing a black hoodie with a white design on the sleeve. All three people are facing the camera.
Brett Scallions on Facebook

Brett Scallions of Fuel with Letters From the Dead

► The Castle Theater // $18 // 8 p.m.

Don’t miss an electrifying performance by Brett Scallions, best known as the original lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the alternative rock band Fuel, renowned for his contributions to four major-label albums including the double platinum “Something Like Human.” Revel in Scallions’ top-tier Heavy Metal vocals, ranked #50 by Hit Parader, and experience the talent that drove him to collaborate with bands like World Fire Brigade and Riders on the Storm. Letters From the Dead are in support.

Saturday, July 29th

Tango at the Market

► Urbana’s Market at the Square // free // 9 a.m.

Tango at the Market brings the vibrant energy of tango music to Urbana’s Market. This lively event combines music, dance, and the bustling atmosphere of the market, promising a unique and exciting experience.

This is a photo realistic image of three people standing side by side in front of a grey background. The person on the left is wearing a blue baseball cap and a grey sweater. The person in the middle is wearing a black t-shirt with red rose designs on it. The person on the right is wearing a black t-shirt.
Patty Pershala and the Mayhaps on ElevatorAGoGo

Editor’s Pick: Girls Rock Fest

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $25 suggested donation // noon

Girls Rock Fest is a celebration of music and girl power. This event features a diverse lineup of talented musicians, coming together to raise money and celebrate females that rock! There will also be a showcase from the students. Maize food truck will be there, so bring the family and enjoy a great day of music! Visit girlsrockcu.org for more info!

1 p.m. – Camp Showcase
2 p.m. – Nectar
3 p.m. – Chickadee Sermon
3:45 p.m. – Hannah Rose and the Sweet Nothings
4:50 p.m. –  Haki N Dem
6:15 p.m. – Venus Overdrive
7:10 p.m. – The Randys
8:10 p.m. –  Emily How and the Why’s
9 p.m. – Sweetmelk
10:10 p.m. – Patty PerShayla & the Mayhaps

A woman dressed in a dark shirt with long brown hair smiling with 4 show posters hanging by clothespins on a wire behind her.
Gloria Roubal on Facebook

Gloria Roubal

► Seven Saints // free // 1 p.m.

Experience the performance and musical talent of Gloria Roubal at Seven Saints, acclaimed for her multi-genre performances in bands like G. Lee & Jet Blonde, acoustic duos Paul & Gloria, and The Double Dots. Enjoy a mix of Gloria’s original pop/rock compositions interspersed with a variety of captivating covers.

Bandoneon: The Soul of Argentine Tango

► Community Center for the Arts // free // 1 p.m.

The Soul of the Argentine Tango, a bilingual (English and Spanish) concert for all ages featuring the instrument, the bandoneon.

This is a photo realistic image of a person holding a white electric guitar in a park. The person is wearing a blue and white checkered blazer and a black t-shirt. The guitar is white with a black pickguard and a maple neck. The background consists of a park with trees and a stone bridge.
Quinn Sternberg

Quinn Sternberg Quartet

► Jazz Up Front (Bloomington) // free // 8 p.m.

The Quinn Sternberg Quartet is known for their intricate compositions and stellar performances. Their music, a blend of jazz and contemporary influences, promises a captivating and immersive musical journey.

This is a photo realistic image of a group of musicians playing on a stage. The musicians are playing various instruments such as violins, cellos, and accordions. The musicians are seated on chairs and are reading music from music stands. The background consists of a red curtain and stage lighting
Tango Workshop Orchestra

Gala Milonga with the Workshop Orchestra

► Independent Media Center // $20 // 8 p.m.

Gala Milonga is a public tango dance featuring live music by the participants of the Tango workshop.

This is a photo of a band performing on a small stage in a brick-walled venue. The band members’ faces are blurred to protect their privacy. The band consists of a vocalist, a guitarist, a drummer, and a bassist. The vocalist is holding a microphone and the guitarist is playing a blue electric guitar. The drummer is playing a red drum kit and the bassist is playing a green bass guitar. There are amplifiers and other musical equipment on the stage. The stage is lit by stage lights and there is a window in the background.
Fluffy on Facebook

Fluffy: A Tribute to Ween

► The Canopy Club // $10 to $12 // 8 p.m.

If you like Ween, you’ll love Fluffy. 

This is a photo of a person sitting on a brick wall with a DJ mixer in their lap. The person is wearing a black jacket and red pants. The DJ mixer is black with two turntables and various knobs and buttons. The background is an urban setting with a chain link fence and a brick building.
DJ Silkee on Facebook

Reggae Party Featuring DJ Silkee

► Neil Street Blues // free // 10 p.m.

The Reggae Party Featuring DJ Silkee promises an evening of infectious rhythms and energetic performances. DJ Silky, known for her skill and unique mixes, is sure to keep the crowd dancing all night long.

This is a photo of a person holding a guitar. The guitar is a dark brown color with a black pickguard and white strings. The person is wearing a black and white striped shirt. The background is a dark blue color.
Eliza Petry on Facebook

Eliza Petry

► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.

Eliza Petry, an evening anchor and agriculture reporter on News Channel 20 in Springfield, shows off another one of her many talents at Huber’s. 

Sunday, July 30th

This is a photo of a band performing on a stage in a dark venue. The stage has a large banner that reads “THE FEST 20” in colorful letters. The band members are playing various instruments, including guitars, drums, and a bass. The audience is visible in the foreground, with their backs to the camera. The lighting is dim, with purple and blue lights illuminating the stage.
Audio Karate on Facebook

Audio Karate with Tight Wire, Nectar, Colonel James Presents and Eat My Jorts

► The Space // $12 // 6 p.m.

Audio Karate, joined by Tight Wire, Nectar, Colonel James Presents, and Eat My Jorts, promises a night of energetic performances and exciting music. This diverse lineup of bands brings a fresh take on rock music, which might just blast the windows right out of The Space.

This is a black and white photo of a group of people in a room. The people are standing in a circle and appear to be engaged in conversation. The room has a low ceiling with a light fixture and a window with curtains. There is a coat rack and a chair in the background. The people are wearing casual clothing, including t-shirts and jeans.
Pop Evil on Facebook

Pop Evil with Eva Under Fire and Lines of Loyalty

► The Castle Theater // $25 // 7:30 p.m.

Pop Evil, joined by Eva Under Fire and Lines of Loyalty, promises a night of high-energy performances and compelling music. Pop Evil, the award-winning American rock band, are known for their electrifying blend of smack-you-in-the-mouth rock music and immersive performances, as they deliver their latest hits from their 2023 album, “Skeletons”. Witness live renditions of their powerful singles such as “Eye of the Storm”, “Paranoid (Crash & Burn)”, and “Dead Reckoning” as well.

Catlin Crozier

► Alto Vineyards // free // 2 p.m.

Wind down the weekend with a glass of wine and music from Catlin Crozier.

Music Editor

More Articles