From Yocum Institute for Arts Education
Yocum Institute for Arts Education is bringing an exciting lineup of live jazz to its Schumo Theater with the launch of its 2026-27 “Jazz on the Avenue” concert series. The six-concert series will feature acclaimed regional, national, and international jazz musicians from October 2026 through April 2027, offering audiences the opportunity to experience exceptional live music in an intimate setting.
The series kicks off on Friday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m., with Birdland Guitar Night, featuring renowned guitarists Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo. Tickets are $30.00.
Frank Vignola is one of the most popular and sought-after guitarists on the international music scene. His dynamic, genre-spanning style has taken him to 21 countries across three continents. Joining him is Vinny Raniolo, Vignola’s frequent collaborator and a gifted guitarist in his own right. Known for his warm tone and inventive accompaniment, Raniolo brings a natural chemistry to the duo that has made their performances a favorite among jazz audiences. Together, Vignola and Raniolo promise an unforgettable evening of virtuosity, energy, and musical spontaneity.
“Jazz has a unique ability to transport us, to give us a chance to step away from the everyday and simply enjoy the moment,” said Yocum Institute. “Jazz on the Avenue is an opportunity to experience that kind of escape while supporting live performance and arts education in our community.”
Following Birdland Guitar Night, the Jazz on the Avenue series continues with a diverse lineup of performances.
- Friday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m.: The Music of Sinatra, Bennett, Darin & More: Pennsylvania native Erich Cawalla and his All-Star Quartet pay tribute to some of the musicians’ greatest musical influences, blending “Old Vegas with Contemporary R&B.”
- Sunday, Dec. 20, at 4 p.m.: A Swinging Holiday: The Hot Club of Reading brings together Gypsy jazz and New Orleans hot jazz for a spirited celebration of jazz standards and holiday favorites.
- Friday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m.: An Elegant Evening of Jazz: Gerald Veasley, Diane Monroe, and Tony Miceli come together for an evening of sophisticated, soulful jazz featuring electric bass, violin, and vibraphone.
- Friday, March 26, at 7 p.m.: Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Preview: Local jazz favorites Greg Wilson, Mike Eben, Cliff Starkey, Bennie Sims, and Larry Marshall celebrate the legendary saxophonists who have shaped the genre.
- Friday, April 16, at 7 p.m.: Jazz Appreciation Month Celebration – Ragas in Motion”: A Saxophone Dialogue: Phil Scarff, Priyank Krishna, and tabla virtuoso Pandit Anoop Banerjee explore the intersection of Indian classical music and jazz.
All Jazz on the Avenue concerts will take place in the Schumo Theater at Yocum Institute for Arts Education, located at 3000 Penn Ave., West Lawn. Free parking is available.
Tickets for all six concerts are now available for purchase online at yocuminstitute.org/jota or at the Yocum Institute front desk. Prices range from $25.00 to $30.00, making the series an accessible way for audiences to experience outstanding live jazz close to home.
About Yocum Institute for Arts Education
The Yocum Institute for Arts Education is a nonprofit community arts organization dedicated to enriching lives through arts education, performance, and cultural experiences. Serving the Berks County community for more than 90 years, Yocum offers programs in music, theater, dance, visual arts, and early childhood education for students of all ages and abilities.
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