The Cabaret Chronicles: MetroJam and a Look at the Coming Week!

Happy New Year!  After a brief hiatus over the holidays, I'm back in action and ready to see some great shows!  Last evening, I kicked off the new entertainment year by heading out in the cold for MetroJam at the Metropolitan Room.   Hosted by yours truly, MetroJam is the Metropolitan Room's monthly open mic, and we had a great time last night.  There were a number of brave souls who ventured out in the frigid night air to share their talents, including Mary Foster Conklin, Carol McCann, Doug Acosta, Sigali Hamburger, and Bistro Award winner Susan Winter.  Our special guest for the evening was Fortune Esposito, who treated us to a terrific 3-song set of "Route 66," "If I Can Dream" and "Moondance."   The MetroJam Band (John DiPinto on piano, Ritt Henn on bass and Ricci Saracino on drums) was top-notch, and a great time was had by all!  

I'm looking forward to getting back into the swing of things this week, and to that end, here's what I'm planning on attending:

Tonight - Sunday, January 3^rd:  Salon for the New Year at Etcetera, Etcetera Restaurant (352 W. 44^th St).  Founded and hosted by composer/musical director Mark Janas, this open mic (formerly known as the Algonquin Salon) is returning to Etcetera, Etcetera for the third time.  The optional theme for the evening is "Sing Out The Old, Sing In The New," and tonight's guest host will be the lovely and talented Annie Hughes, who is making a rare NYC appearance.  In the featured guest spot for the evening is Julie Reyburn, who will be treating the crowd to several selections from her forthcoming CD, "Live At Feinstein's."  The Salon runs from 7 - 10:30 p.m.; performers are encouraged to arrive by 6:30 p.m. to sign up.  

Monday, January 4th:  7:00 p.m. - Aaron Weinstein Trio with special guest Janis Siegel at Birdland.  Young jazz violin virtuoso Aaron Weinstein has played with some big-ticket stars including John Pizzarelli, Bucky Pizzarelli, Annie Ross, Dick Hyman, Les Paul, Frank Vignola, and legendary rock guitarist Jay Geils.  This concert marks his solo debut, and in my book, it is a "don't miss" event!  Following Mr. Weinstein's concert, I'll be sticking around at Birdland for Jim Caruso's Cast Party.  Hosted by Jim Caruso, this fantastic open mic runs from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. but make sure to get there early to sign up if you want to sing!  

Wednesday, January 6^th:  Wednesday Night at the Iguana (8 p.m. - 11 p.m.).  Hosted by Richard Skipper and Dana Lorge, this weekly singers' showcase has become a hot Wednesday night destination.  Each Wednesday features five featured vocalists (each performs a 3 song set), as well as a whole slew of other talented guests.  This week, the featured vocalists are Kelly Esposito-Broelmann, Travis Moser, FrEd Martin, J. Michael Reeds, and Marya Zimmet.  Should be a fun night!

Pictured: Aaron Weinstein

 

 

 

 

 

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