Smile Politely

The Overture: October 10-15

Derrick Philips
A person playing guitar on stage with a maroon curtain as the backdrop.
Adeem the Artist on Facebook

Tuesday, October 10

A band is performing in a dimly lit bar. Three members are engaged with their instruments: a keyboard, a guitar, and a drum set. The drum set is in the foreground, with the other two members slightly behind. The backdrop is a black wall adorned with framed pictures and a window. A black trash can is also visible in the background.
Chip Stephens Trio on Facebook

The Chip Stephens Trio

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

The Chip Stephens Trio, led by pianist Chip Stephens, brings an evening of classic jazz standards and original compositions to the Rose Bowl Tavern. The Trio’s dynamic interplay and improvisational prowess offer a rewarding experience for jazz aficionados.

A performer is captured mid-song on stage, microphone in hand. They are attired in a striking white outfit, adorned with spikes, and a long white wig. The outfit is illuminated by a purple light. The performer is in a dynamic pose, kneeling on one knee with the other leg extended. The backdrop features a blue metal structure and a drum set.
September Mourning on Facebook

September Mourning

► The Canopy Club // $15 ADV / $20 DOS // 8 p.m.

September Mourning is a dark culture fantasy band that blends hard rock, theatrical performance, and a narrative storyline to provide a unique concert experience. With a persona that is a human-reaper hybrid, their shows are a visually stunning presentation intertwined with their high-energy rock performance.

Three separate photos of individuals comprise this photo. The individual on the left is attired in a black suit, cradling a cello. The person in the center sports a blue shirt. The person on the right is in a black coat, positioned before a stone wall with a carved design.
Venki Ramakrishnan, Raman Ramakrishnan, and Benjamin Hochman

Gene Machine: An Evening of Science and Music with Venki Ramakrishnan and Benjamin Hochman

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $35-$95 // 7:30 p.m.

Dive into an evening where science meets music. Nobel Laureate Venki Ramakrishnan and pianist Benjamin Hochman collaborate for a unique event that explores the beauty of molecular structures and classical music, illuminating the connections between these two seemingly disparate worlds.

An individual wearing a red leather jumpsuit is holding a guitar against an off-white backdrop.
Samantha Fish on Facebook

Samantha Fish with Eric Johanson

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

Blues guitarist and singer Samantha Fish brings her sultry and soulful performance to The Castle Theatre, accompanied by Eric Johanson. Known for her powerful vocals and blistering guitar chops, Samantha offers an electrifying blend of blues, roots, and rock ‘n’ roll.

Wednesday, October 11

Doctoral Project Recital – Yunji Shim – Voice

► Memorial Room- Smith Memorial Hall // free // 10 a.m.

Yunji Shim, a doctoral candidate at the University of Illinois, presents a voice recital as part of her project. Her extensive repertoire showcases her exceptional vocal technique and emotional depth, taking the audience on a captivating musical journey.

Clinic – KASA and Eddie Barbash Jazz Quartets

► Auditorium- Music Building // free // 7:30 p.m.

Join the KASA and Eddie Barbash Jazz Quartets for a clinic and performance exploring the intricacies of jazz improvisation and ensemble playing. This event is a treat for jazz enthusiasts interested in the technical and collaborative aspects of jazz music.

A man dressed in a suit holding an upright bass and looking down in a hallway
Andrew Binder

Andrew Binder’s Conspiracy Deliracy

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

Andrew Binder’s Conspiracy Deliracy is a unique musical endeavor that blends elements of jazz, rock, and experimental music. The ensemble’s distinctive sound invites audiences into a musically adventurous experience.

Thursday, October 12

Illinois Wind Symphony – Chamber Winds

► Recital Hall- Smith Memorial Hall // free // 6:30 p.m.

The Illinois Wind Symphony’s Chamber Winds ensemble presents a concert that explores a diverse range of wind repertoire. Under the direction of accomplished conductors, the ensemble delivers an engaging performance showcasing their technical skills and musicality.

A person is standing in front of a desk that supports two computer monitors. They are attired in a black t-shirt and a baseball cap. The desk is populated with a keyboard, a mouse, and a few other items. The wall behind the desk is adorned with posters and a clock.
Kurt Bielema on Facebook

Americana Happy Hour Ft. Kurt Bielema

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

Join Kurt Bielema as he hosts the Americana Happy Hour at the Rose Bowl Tavern. His music, deeply rooted in Americana and folk traditions, provides a soothing backdrop for a relaxed evening.

A band playing in a dark bar with a "Folk & Roots Festival" banner hanging in the back.
C-U Folk & Roots Festival

EDITOR’S PICK: C-U Folk and Roots Festival – Day 1

► Rose Bowl Tavern and elsewhere // $40 for Festival Access // 9 p.m.

The C-U Folk and Roots Festival is an annual event celebrating folk and roots music in downtown Urbana. With a lineup of local and touring artists, the festival offers a plethora of musical styles ensuring a vibrant and communal atmosphere. Thursday night at Rosebowl features Keith Hall and the Creepin’ Grass. Check the C-U Folk & Roots schedule for exact times and venues hosting this year’s festival.

Krannert Uncorked and CU Folk & Roots Festival Present Eddie Barbash & KASA Quartet with Meadowhawk

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy a special edition of Krannert Uncorked presented in collaboration with the CU Folk & Roots Festival. This event features Eddie Barbash & KASA Quartet along with Meadowhawk, each bringing their own unique flavor of folk, classical, and traditional music to the stage.

A Musical Afternoon with Brendan Slocumb

► Champaign Public Library // free // 2 p.m.

Spend a musical afternoon with Brendan Slocumb at the Champaign Public Library. The talented musician shares his passion for music through a soulful performance that resonates with audiences of all ages.

A person is captured in the act of pointing to a violin they hold in their right hand. They are attired in a black polo shirt and a baseball cap. A beaded bracelet adorns their left wrist, which also showcases a series of tattoos. The backdrop is a plain white wall.
Brendan Slocumb on Facebook

An Evening with Brendan Slocumb

► Champaign Public Library // free // 7 p.m.

Brendan Slocumb returns for an evening session at the Champaign Public Library. His musical narrative continues to enchant, offering a refreshing and engaging experience to the audience.

Citizen Soldier on Facebook

Citizen Soldier Acoustic with Hollow Hill and Nicotine Poetic

► The Castle Theatre // $16 // 8 p.m.

Citizen Soldier brings an acoustic set to The Castle Theatre, joined by Hollow Hill and Nicotine Poetic. The bands offer a night of introspective lyrics and melodious acoustic sounds, evoking a range of emotions through their music.

Friday, October 13

Chambers Singers and Oratorio Society

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

The Chambers Singers and Oratorio Society come together to present a choral concert showcasing their vocal talents. The groups’ harmonious renditions of classic and contemporary choral pieces make for a serene musical evening.

A group of individuals are seated with music stands before them, each holding a stringed instrument. They appear to be part of an orchestra, dressed in formal black attire. The setting is a wooden stage with a curtain.
U of I Philharmonia Orchestra on Facebook

The University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra

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

The University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra delivers a performance of orchestral works ranging from classical to contemporary. Under the baton of expert conductors, the ensemble provides a compelling musical experience.

Erik Lund’s Jazz Friends

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

Join Erik Lund and his Jazz Friends for an early evening jazz session at the Rose Bowl Tavern. Erik Lund, a skilled trombonist and composer, along with his ensemble, brings a rich palette of jazz sounds to the venue.

C-U Folk & Roots Festival

EDITOR’S PICK: C-U Folk and Roots Festival – Day 2

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $40 for Festival Access // 5 p.m.

The C-U Folk and Roots Festival continues its celebration of folk music with a lineup of local and touring artists. The festival is a haven for folk music enthusiasts, offering a communal atmosphere filled with music, dance, and storytelling. Check the C-U Folk & Roots schedule for exact times and venues hosting this year’s festival.

A person is holding a guitar, attired in a blue button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Their hair is blonde and falls to shoulder-length.
Kate Campbell on Facebook

Kate Campbell

► Cohen Building // $40 for Festival Access // 8 p.m.

Kate Campbell takes the stage at the Cohen Building as part of the C-U Folk and Roots Festival. Her music, rooted in Americana, folk, and country, reflects on social issues and personal experiences, creating a bond with her audience through storytelling and song.

The Impalas

► Huber’s West End // free // 7 p.m.

The Impalas bring a blend of classic rock and pop hits to Huber’s West End. Their engaging performance is sure to have audience members on their feet, dancing and singing along to familiar tunes.

Friday music with PBS

► Alto Vineyards // free // 5 p.m.

PBS provides a soothing musical backdrop to the serene setting of Alto Vineyards on a Friday evening. Their acoustic performance, featuring a mix of popular covers and original tunes, is the perfect way to unwind and welcome the weekend.

A person is on stage, strumming an electric guitar. They are dressed in a black shirt and have long blonde hair. The guitar is a light wood color with a white pickguard and a black strap. The background is black.
Joanne Shaw Taylor on Facebook

Joanne Shaw Taylor

► The Castle Theatre // $35-$45 // 8 p.m.

British blues rock guitarist and singer Joanne Shaw Taylor brings her fiery performance to The Castle Theatre. Known for her incredible guitar prowess and soulful vocals, Joanne captivates audiences with her energetic and emotive live shows.

Saturday, October 14

The image you uploaded appears to be of a marching band. The band members are wearing orange and white uniforms with “Illini” written on the back. They are also wearing white hats with black plumes. The photo seems to have been taken in a stadium filled with spectators, and it’s taken from behind the group, so only the backs of their heads and uniforms are visible. It’s a very dynamic and lively scene
Marching Illini

Illinois Marching Band Championships

► Memorial Stadium // $5 to $10 at stadium // 7:30 a.m.

Witness the competitive spirit of Illinois high school marching bands as they vie for the championship title at the Illinois Marching Band Championships. The event showcases the talent and hard work of young musicians from across the state.

Guitar Ensemble

► Memorial Room- Smith Memorial Hall // free // 7:30 p.m.

The Guitar Ensemble at the University of Illinois presents a concert featuring a diverse repertoire for classical guitar. The ensemble, under the direction of skilled instructors, showcases a range of musical styles, delivering a captivating performance.

In the image, there’s a person playing a guitar. They are wearing a cowboy hat and a floral shirt. The image is in black and white, and the background is dark and blurred.
Adeem the Artist on Facebook

EDITOR’S PICK: C-U Folk and Roots Festival – Day 3

► Rose Bowl Tavern // free during the day on Saturday and $40 for Festival Access for evening // 10 a.m.

Saturday programming for the C-U Folk & Roots festival during the day is free, so immerse yourself in the vibrant community of folk and roots music at the C-U Folk and Roots Festival. The day-long event features a diverse lineup of musical acts, workshops, and jam sessions, celebrating the rich tradition of folk music in the Urbana-Champaign area. Check the C-U Folk & Roots schedule for exact times and venues hosting this year’s festival.

A person is standing in front of a white wall adorned with black drawings. They are dressed in a black jacket and have short hair.
Dogma on Facebook

DOGMA

► The Canopy Club // $10-12 ADV / $15 DOS // 8 p.m.

DOGMA takes the stage at The Canopy Club, delivering a high-energy, Heavy Bass performance that blends elements of rock, metal, and electronic music. Their dynamic stage presence and engaging sound are sure to keep the crowd moving. Opening acts include Debstep, Quantum and Mr. Pink.

Sara Siders in a blue denim shirt and curly hair with her arms crossed and an impish grin. Blurry white light bulbs can be seen in the background.
Sara Siders on Facebook

Sass

► Pour Bros Taproom // free // 8 p.m.

Sass provides a lively musical experience at Pour Bros Taproom. Their upbeat tunes and engaging performance create a fun and festive atmosphere, perfect for a Saturday night out.

New Twang City

► Huber’s West End // free // 7 p.m.

Enjoy a night of country and twang with New Twang City at Huber’s West End. The band’s classic country sound, combined with their modern twist, provides a lively and engaging musical experience.

C-U Folk and Roots Festival – Urbana Free Library

► Urbana Free Library – Busey Mills Reading Room // free // 9 a.m.

The Urbana Free Library hosts a segment of the C-U Folk and Roots Festival, offering a cozy and intimate setting for acoustic performances and storytelling. The event celebrates the essence of folk music and its power to bring communities together. Check the C-U Folk & Roots schedule for exact times and venues hosting this year’s festival.

C-U Folk and Roots Festival – Urbana Free Library

► Urbana Free Library – The Satterthwaite Conference Room // free // 9 a.m.

Continue exploring the realms of folk and roots music at the Urbana Free Library’s Satterthwaite Conference Room. The event features a curated lineup of musicians who share their stories and songs in an intimate setting. Check the C-U Folk & Roots schedule for exact times and venues hosting this year’s festival.

C-U Folk and Roots Festival – Urbana Free Library

► Urbana Free Library – The Lewis Auditorium // free // 9 a.m.

The Lewis Auditorium at the Urbana Free Library opens its doors for the C-U Folk and Roots Festival, providing a platform for artists to share their musical narratives. This segment of the festival continues the celebration of folk music and its ability to connect individuals through shared musical experiences. Check the C-U Folk & Roots schedule for exact times and venues hosting this year’s festival.

The image showcases a poster for an event named “Oktstonerfest”. A skull, donning a green hat and sprouting a cactus with orange flowers, is the central figure. The backdrop is a purple sky with orange clouds. The poster text, in white, announces the event details including the date, location, band names, donation amount, and start time.
Okstonerfest

Okstonerfest

► Loose Cobra // $25 cover // 4:20 p.m.

Okstonerfest at Loose Cobra is a celebration of stoner rock and metal, featuring a lineup of bands dedicated to the heavy and hypnotic sounds of the genre. The festival provides a platform for the community of stoner rock enthusiasts to come together and revel in the music, and maybe see a shopping cart on fire. The music starts sharply at 4:20.

Sunday, October 15

A group of individuals are on a stage, each donned in black robes with white collars. Some hold black folders. A piano is positioned in front of them, and a conductor stands to the side.
U of I Black Chorus on Facebook

Black Chorus – LESEDI: Our Culture; Our Light

► Recital Hall- Smith Memorial Hall // $15 at the door // 4 p.m.

Join the University of Illinois Black Chorus, conducted by Dr. Ollie Watts Davis, for their Annual Fall Concert, “LESEDI: Our Culture, Our Light,” featuring spiritual arrangements and anthems inspired by notable Black writers of the 20th century, alongside timeless pieces from renowned traditional and contemporary gospel songwriters. A special segment will spotlight alumni with Dr. K. Edward Copeland’s cantata “I Sing for Joy,” composed in honor of Dr. Watts Davis, and feature various alumni as soloists and instrumentalists.

A person is perched on a window sill, their back to the window. They are dressed in a white t-shirt. A guitar leans against a brick wall in the background. The image is in black and white.
Christy Hays on Facebook

Christy Hays with Cole Bridges and the Overpass

► Loose Cobra // $10 in the bucket // 5 p.m.

Christy Hays will be performing alongside her pedal steel player, Ben Pickett. Notably, their performance at the Loose Cobra concludes their series of shows where they have been the opening act for the Americana artist, Margo Cilker.

Cole Bridges, once a ten-year resident of the Urbana-Champaign area, now residing in St. Louis, MO. This event serves as a notable return to his roots, as he reunites with his former ensemble, The Overpass.

This is a photo-realistic image of a person playing a trumpet against a red background. The trumpet is gold in color and the person is holding it up to their mouth with their left hand. The person is wearing a black suit jacket. The background is a solid red color.
Nikolas Kaplan Quintet on Facebook

Nickolas Kaplan Quintet

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

Jazz enthusiasts are in for a treat with the Nickolas Kaplan Quintet at the Rose Bowl Tavern. The ensemble, led by Nickolas Kaplan, explores the realms of jazz through a modern lens, providing a captivating musical journey.

a band performing on a stage. The band consists of three members, playing a guitar, a drum set, and a bass guitar. The drum set is a Yamaha brand. The stage is lit with blue and purple lights and the background consists of a black curtain. There are two audience members visible in the foreground, both of whom have their backs to the camera.
James Jones Trio on Facebook

James Jones Trio

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 7 p.m.

The James Jones Trio brings a blend of blues, jazz, and rock to the Rose Bowl Tavern. Their dynamic performance, characterized by soulful vocals and tight musicianship, provides a soothing musical experience for the audience.

Under The Canopy: Battle of The Bands

► The Canopy Club // $10 ADV / $12 DOS // 5 p.m.

Under The Canopy: Battle of The Bands is a competition that showcases the talent of local bands vying for the top spot at The Canopy Club. The event is a celebration of the diverse musical talent within the Champaign-Urbana community.

A quartet stands before a stone wall, each clad in dark attire. One sports a black t-shirt with a white skull design, another a black t-shirt with a white band logo, and the remaining two in black hoodies. All are in jeans and sneakers.
The Raging Nathans from Facebook

The Raging Nathans w/ Hospital Job and Power Of Dusk

► The Space // $10 // 7 p.m.

The Raging Nathans, along with Hospital Job and Power Of Dusk, deliver a night of punk rock energy at The Space. Each band brings its unique style to the stage, contributing to a lively and energetic atmosphere.

A person is on stage, microphone in hand, dressed in a black suit adorned with silver sequins on the sleeves. Behind them, another individual sits against a backdrop of a purple wall with a geometric pattern.
Amy Grant on Facebook

Amy Grant

► Virginia Theatre // $64 to $74 // 7:30 p.m.

Grammy Award-winning artist Amy Grant graces the stage at Virginia Theatre, sharing her heartfelt songs and stories with the audience. Known for her contributions to contemporary Christian music, Amy’s performance is sure to be a soul-stirring experience.

Poetry and Piano: In Praise of Women Poets and Composers

► Urbana Free Library – The Lewis Auditorium // free // 2 p.m.

Poetry and Piano: In Praise of Women Poets and Composers is a celebration of the works of women poets and composers, presented through a blend of spoken word and piano performance. The event aims to honor and explore the contributions of women to the world of music and literature.

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

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

The Parkland Orchestra Concert Band and Wind Ensemble collaborate for a joint concert at the Parkland College U-wing Cafeteria. The ensembles, directed by experienced conductors, present a repertoire of orchestral and band works, showcasing their musical growth and collaborative spirit.

Sunday Wine Down with Andy & Virginia Acoustic Duo

► Alto Vineyards // free // 2 p.m.

Unwind with the soothing sounds of the Andy & Virginia Acoustic Duo at Alto Vineyards’ Sunday Wine Down. Their acoustic renditions of popular songs provide a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, making for a peaceful end to the week.

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