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Upcoming Shows

Fri, Apr 17Described by Downbeat Magazine as "“deeply considered, thought-provoking jazz terrain", this duo of longtime friends/collaborators Larry Koonse and David Roitstein is a beautiful example of what happens when two musicians converse musically on the highest possible level.
Sat, Apr 18Internationally acclaimed bassist, composer, and bandleader Janek Gwizdala launches the first in a three-part live recording series at Sam First Jazz Club with a powerhouse trio featuring legendary drummer Peter Erskine and visionary guitarist Nir Felder.
Tue, Apr 21Over the past two decades, pianist, composer, and seven-time Grammy nominee Gerald Clayton has built a career defined by versatility and depth. Clayton reunites his trio with Joe Sanders and Justin Brown for two unforgettable nights of musical interplay.
Wed, Apr 22Over the past two decades, pianist, composer, and seven-time Grammy nominee Gerald Clayton has built a career defined by versatility and depth. Clayton reunites his trio with Joe Sanders and Justin Brown for two unforgettable nights of musical interplay.
Thu, Apr 23Hailed by The New York Times for “reamplifying the tradition of jazz piano,” pianist and drummer Luther S. Allison is a leading voice in jazz today, blending blues, gospel, bebop, and soul. *Set times for this show are 7 PM and 9 PM as the 1st set will be broadcast live on KJAZZ 88.1 FM.
Fri, Apr 24GRAMMY-nominated songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Becca Stevens is known for her emotionally resonant, genre-defying music. Drawing from roots in Appalachian folk, her background in jazz, and a love of experimental indie, her songs are as technically daring as they are deeply human.
Sat, Apr 25GRAMMY-nominated songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Becca Stevens is known for her emotionally resonant, genre-defying music. Drawing from roots in Appalachian folk, her background in jazz, and a love of experimental indie, her songs are as technically daring as they are deeply human.
Tue, Apr 28Devin Daniels, one of the most unique and exciting voices from LA’s thriving creative music scene, leads tonight's "Happenings". House band performs one set at 7:30pm followed by a jam session from 9:30-11pm.
Wed, Apr 29College Night is a program aimed at giving young musicians valuable performance experience, a chance to network with future colleagues on other campuses, and exposure to the wider Sam First family of artists and audiences.
Thu, Apr 3025 years after his arrival in New York, the GRAMMY-winning and Latin GRAMMY-nominated drummer, composer, and MacArthur Fellow Dafnis Prieto strikes once again with his 10th album, 3 Sides of the Coin. This album marks the studio return of Prieto’s acclaimed Sí o Sí (“Yes or Yes”) Quartet.
Fri, May 01Brought up in the clubs of New York City, vocalist Melissa Morgan is rooted deeply in the tradition of jazz while always keeping one foot planted firmly in the blues. Join Morgan and this stand out band for an extremely memorable night of swinging music!
Tue, May 05GRAMMY Award winning bassist Eric Revis is a commanding and versatile performer who has collaborated with Branford Marsalis, Betty Carter, Jason Moran, Kris Davis and so many more. Here, Revis leads a powerful ensemble through the deeply conversational music of jazz legend Charles Mingus.
Wed, May 06Pianist Michael Orenstein returns to Sam First with a dynamic new project. Joined by longtime collaborators, he presents original works and reimagined jazz standards, showcasing his acclaimed blend of modernity, tradition, creativity, and virtuosity.
Thu, May 07Trombonist/bandleader Alan Ferber returns to Sam First to present music from his album "Up High, Down Low" which blends jazz tradition with forward thinking composition with Ferber's unique storytelling. The iteration of his nonet features Daniel Rotem, Anthony Wilson, Bill Cunliffe and Mark Ferber!
Fri, May 08A landmark album, “Time Out” from 1959 explored a whole new world of rhythmic experimentation. The ensemble will perform the entire record and also include some other original material from the band members.
Sat, May 09A landmark album, “Time Out” from 1959 explored a whole new world of rhythmic experimentation. The ensemble will perform the entire record and also include some other original material from the band members.
Tue, May 12Caroline Davis’ Portals is an immersive sound and haptic experience, drawing upon the idea of mourning and ancestral communications as textural entities. The music has been mindfully written to offer connections to Caroline’s ancestors who have transitioned and elements they would like to explore.
Thu, May 14Acclaimed flutist Lori Bell joins Josh Nelson and Luca Alemanno for an intimate, spontaneous jazz collaboration emphasizing interplay and listening. Bell, a three-time Global Music Award winner, is internationally recognized for expressive performances and critically praised albums.
Doors open at 6:00 PM and music starts around 7:30 PM & 9:30 PM. All shows at Sam First are 21+.
Sam First is committed to creating an immersive listening experience. Out of respect the artists and fellow guests, we kindly ask that guests refrain from talking during the performance. We appreciate your understanding and support!
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