Don Berryman's suggestions on who to hear, when and where to hear them; a guide to live Jazz all around the twin towns is provided as a service to my friends.. Shows marked with a `*', we are planning to attend. The others are recommendations that I could easily be persuaded into attending as well.
If you want to receive my monthly email  to be added to the email list.  For live local music beyond the realm of jazz, see The Twin Cities Alternative Shows List.

Raison d'etre : Among my friends I have a reputation of being a bit of a jazz hound. "Don's picks" was started when my friends asked me to let them know about good live jazz performances around town. This sight is not an exhaustive list of live jazz performances. Check the gigs listing at www.tcjs.org for that. These are my personal recommendations for shows that I either plan to attend, or would attend if I could. My criteria for inclusion is very subjective. Things that influence this are artists that I know I like, artists about whom I have heard good things who perform in a genre I like. I have a bias toward Hard bop, bebop and B3 organ. Although I also enjoy and list some trad jazz, blues, post bop, free jazz and swing.

Show times: Standard-jazz-time means shows usually start about 1/2 hour late, but some punctual performers defy the rules. Unless noted otherwise, shows are scheduled for 9 PM. Blue Star Room shows start at 8. National acts at the Dakota are in two sets, one at 7 and one at 9:30.

Live at the AQ

Coming to town soon:

Sept. 1

Sept. 12-13 Stephanie Nakasian  & Hod O’Brien Artists Quarter

Sept. 27, Charlie Haden’s Liberation Music Orchestra
with Carla Bley the Walker

Approved by the Jazz Police www.jazzpolice.com

Web Design by Don Berryman ConsultingCaveat: Use at your own risk. Don Berryman makes no warranty, expressed or implied as to the accuracy, completeness or utility of information provided. Contents may settle during shipment. Actual mileage may vary. Contents under pressure. Use in a well ventilated area. Do not puncture or incinerate. Apply to clean dry surface. Avoid contact with eyes. Use only as directed. May cause drowsiness, dizziness or euphoria. Alcohol may intensify this effect. Void where prohibited by law, the Jazz Police, or your mom.

View my videos of some shows that were also Don's picks: