UPCOMING EVENTS
Roman Street
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as the Roman Street quartet brings their electrifying blend of Nuevo Flamenco, smooth jazz, and acoustic world fusion to the stage—transporting audiences with fiery guitar duets, irresistible rhythms, and an atmosphere that feels both exotic and intimate. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this performance promises to be a soul-stirring journey you won’t want to miss!
2026 Evenings of Intimate Jazz Series
The sweet and soulful sounds of Jazz are back at the Smithgall Arts Center for an all new season.
Purchase Tickets for the 2026 Jazz Series below:
Roman Street | January 16 & 17
Ashleigh Elizabeth Smith | February 13 & 14
Sammy Hanson Quartet | March 20 & 21
Jazz at the Movies | April 17 & 18
Joe Gransden Ensemble | May 16
Roman Street
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as the Roman Street quartet brings their electrifying blend of Nuevo Flamenco, smooth jazz, and acoustic world fusion to the stage—transporting audiences with fiery guitar duets, irresistible rhythms, and an atmosphere that feels both exotic and intimate. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this performance promises to be a soul-stirring journey you won’t want to miss!
Ashleigh Elizabeth Smith
Before Ashleigh Smith won the 2014 Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition, she studied classical music at Georgia’s Columbus State University on a full-ride scholarship. After attending a jazz camp at the prestigious University of North Texas, she transferred to UNT and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Vocal Jazz Performance.
Shortly thereafter, she was awarded a Concord Records recording contract that set the stage for her critically acclaimed 2016 debut album Sunkissed, which blends her signature mix of R&B, funk, and jazz with both original compositions and inventive cover interpretations For these Valentine’s weekend performances, Ashleigh and her band will grace the stage with an evening of delicious ballads designed to make their audiences feel the love!
Ashleigh Elizabeth Smith
Before Ashleigh Smith won the 2014 Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition, she studied classical music at Georgia’s Columbus State University on a full-ride scholarship. After attending a jazz camp at the prestigious University of North Texas, she transferred to UNT and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Vocal Jazz Performance.
Shortly thereafter, she was awarded a Concord Records recording contract that set the stage for her critically acclaimed 2016 debut album Sunkissed, which blends her signature mix of R&B, funk, and jazz with both original compositions and inventive cover interpretations For these Valentine’s weekend performances, Ashleigh and her band will grace the stage with an evening of delicious ballads designed to make their audiences feel the love!
The Sammy Hanson Quartet
Sammy Hanson is considered by most to be the most promising young jazz pianist in the Atlanta area, and a dynamic musician whose artistry shines through in every improvised note. With a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Performance from Florida State University, he brings over 18 years of musical experience to the stage—garnering acclaim in prestigious competitions like the Savannah Swing Central Jazz Festival, Essentially Ellington at Lincoln Center, and the Jack Rudin Jazz Championship, and enchanting audiences at Carnegie Hall and even the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica. Now based in Atlanta, The Sammy Hanson Quartet just released his 2025 debut album, which captures the spontaneity and emotion of live performance—each track a fresh, unforgettable moment of musical discovery.
The Sammy Hanson Quartet
Sammy Hanson is considered by most to be the most promising young jazz pianist in the Atlanta area, and a dynamic musician whose artistry shines through in every improvised note. With a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Performance from Florida State University, he brings over 18 years of musical experience to the stage—garnering acclaim in prestigious competitions like the Savannah Swing Central Jazz Festival, Essentially Ellington at Lincoln Center, and the Jack Rudin Jazz Championship, and enchanting audiences at Carnegie Hall and even the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica. Now based in Atlanta, The Sammy Hanson Quartet just released his 2025 debut album, which captures the spontaneity and emotion of live performance—each track a fresh, unforgettable moment of musical discovery.
Jazz at the Movies
Russian-born pianist /composer Misha Stefanuk brings a string quartet and rhythm section together to celebrate jazz music performances found in the soundtracks of American cinema. As a distinguished jazz and classical pianist, organist, composer, author, and music educator who began playing piano at age five and composing by age nine, he received an extensive musical education in both Russia and the United States—studying at the Moscow Conservatory School, Moscow College of Improvised Music, Russian Academy of Music, Belmont University, Washington State University, and Boston University.
Narration provided by Jazz Club Owner and Podcast Announcer Tamara Fuller.
Jazz at the Movies
Russian-born pianist /composer Misha Stefanuk brings a string quartet and rhythm section together to celebrate jazz music performances found in the soundtracks of American cinema. As a distinguished jazz and classical pianist, organist, composer, author, and music educator who began playing piano at age five and composing by age nine, he received an extensive musical education in both Russia and the United States—studying at the Moscow Conservatory School, Moscow College of Improvised Music, Russian Academy of Music, Belmont University, Washington State University, and Boston University.
Narration provided by Jazz Club Owner and Podcast Announcer Tamara Fuller.
Battle of the Bands
The Arts Council is excited to announce the highly anticipated 2026 Battle of the Bands, taking place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Smithgall Arts Center. This annual showcase brings together the region’s most dynamic emerging artists for an unforgettable night of live music, competition, and community celebration.
Bands of all genres are invited to apply for a chance to perform on stage, connect with new audiences, and compete for top honors, including our grand prize of $1,000 and the opportunity to headline a show in the 2026/2027 season with 50% of ticket sales or our People’s Choice award which includes a cash prize and an opportunity to open at a concert. A panel of judges—featuring industry professionals, local musicians, and community leaders—will evaluate performances based on originality, musicality, stage presence, and audience engagement. Our people’s choice will be determined by who can raise the most funds for the Arts Council through donations.
Applications are open now through March 4, 2026. Interested bands can apply by submitting basic group information, music samples, and a brief performance proposal. An application fee of $100 will apply and selected finalists will be announced in March 2026.
The event is open to all ages, and tickets will go on sale in February.
The Joe Gransden Ensemble
The Joe Gransden and his eight-piece band brings the timeless swing and excitement of classic big band jazz into the modern age, led by the charismatic trumpeter and vocalist Joe Gransden. Known for their electrifying performances, lush arrangements, and infectious energy, this powerhouse ensemble delivers everything from Count Basie–style grooves to contemporary jazz favorites. With every note, they remind audiences why big band music continues to thrill, uplift, and bring people together for an unforgettable night of music.
The Band Loula
The Band Loula, a North Georgia duo, blends swampy, haunting acoustic country with raw harmonies and a soulful, song-forward approach.
Back in Time
Come sing and dance to that old-time rock and roll as the Back in Time band returns for one of Gainesville’s favorite outdoor summer concerts.