Local Note Jazz's Upcoming Shows

Peter Schwendener - Piano

Art Davis - Trumpet

Dan Delorenzo - Bass

Phil Gratteau - Drums

Peter Schwendener has been part of the Chicago jazz scene for nearly three decades.

He moved to the city in 1979 after receiving formal training in Boston at the Berklee College of Music. Since then, he has performed at such Chicago jazz institutions as The Green Mill, Pops for Champagne, The Jazz Showcase, Andy’s, and the fondly remembered Leslee’s, where he held down that venue’s first regular gig.

His playing is rooted in a love of simple melody and the blues. He earned “Critic’s Choice” accolades from The Reader in the 1980s, and more recently was praised by Jay Harvey of the Indianapolis Star for his 2011 recording Kickstand. Harvey wrote, “His style at the keyboard is understated, modestly allowing phrasing and an emphasis on melody to speak more substantially than decorative splash or virtuoso thunder can usually provide.” Of the same recording Hrayr Attarian of Chicago Jazz Magazine wrote, “Peter Schwendener’s freshman recording is a solid work that does justice to the legacy of the musicians who influenced him.”

He continues to perform in the Chicago area and teaches privately in Evanston, Illinois, where he lives with his wife and daughter.

Julia Danielle - Vocals

Kenny Reichert - Guitar

Jesse Lear - Bass

Julia Danielle is a dynamic vocalist, arranger, educator, and composer making a significant impact in the scenes of Chicago and New York. In 2022, she won the prestigious International Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition, which propelled her into the spotlight, leading to performances at the esteemed Blues Alley Jazz Club in Washington, D.C., showcasing her unique voice and engaging stage presence.

Her debut album, released in November 2024, has received critical acclaim, with Jazz Weekly describing it as “a fresh voice” with “a folksy wisp that floats with a bohemian glide.” Julia has collaborated with numerous celebrated artists, including Ben Paterson, Clark Sommers, and Sharel Cassity, enriching her musical experience and expanding her creative horizons. A 2024 Luminarts Winner and recognized by DownBeat Magazine as an "Outstanding Vocal Soloist" in its 46th annual Student Music Awards, Julia's talent is widely acknowledged in the community.

Currently, Julia is pursuing a Master of Music in Jazz Studies at The Juilliard School, where she is mentored by renowned artists such as Charenee Wade, Gerald Cannon, Kenny Washington, Isaiah J. Thompson, and Elio Villafranca. Her studies focus on vocal interpretation, composition, and improvisation, further refining her artistry. Julia's performance history includes esteemed venues like The Jazz Showcase, Zinc Bar, Chris' Jazz Café, and festivals such as The Hyde Park Jazz Festival, establishing her as a prominent figure on the scene.

With a foundation in classical training at Northwestern University and experiences such as touring with the Campanella Children's Choir and Chicago a Cappella, Julia's musical journey began early. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from DePaul University in 2023, where she explored Black American Music and pedagogy under the guidance of esteemed faculty such as Dana Hall, Scott Hesse, and Dennis Carroll. Julia Danielle continues to evolve as an artist and educator, poised to leave a lasting impact.

Henry Carpender - Trombone

Lineup TBA

A freelance career in pop and rock music that began at the age of 15. Henry holds a B.M in Classical Trombone from the Eastman School of Music and an M.M in Jazz Studies from DePaul University. He has appeared on stage with Dag Juhlin, Kelly Hogan, Cathy Richardson, the Canadian Brass, Robbie Fulks, and NRBQ.

A composer whose influences come from all corners of the music world, he is a bandleader whose had the pleasure of premiering works of his own at some of Chicagoland’s most notable venues.

A writer and arranger for all kinds of ensembles, from duets to a full-sized big band.