Events

Kick off the Lunchtime Listening season with the crowd-thrilling musical experience of The Exclusives—one of the hottest professional cover bands in the DMV! With exceptionally talented musicians and powerhouse vocalists, they bring every performance to life with soul, energy, and undeniable charisma. From the smooth sounds of Motown and R&B to the high-energy hits of pop, classic rock, contemporary jazz, and funk, The Exclusives deliver an unforgettable musical experience spanning the greatest hits from the ’60s to today. Get ready to dance, sing along, and be blown away by a band that keeps the party going!

A multi-instrumentalist with Senegalese and Cape Verdean roots, Varre is a Washington, D.C.-born multi-instrumentalist who blends American Soul, Rock, Cuban Salsa, Brazilian Samba, and African genres. He leads the band Sahel, which has performed alongside global artists like Les Nubians and Bombino.

The Legendary Blue Notes featuring Sugar Bear continues the legacy of Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, one of the most popular Philadelphia soul groups of the 1970s. They bring to life such hit songs as “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” “The Love I Lost,” “Bad Luck,” “Wake Up Everybody,” and many other love songs. Come out and enjoy the sounds of The Legendary Blue Notes featuring Sugar Bear.

Renowned saxophonist Kevin Levi is set to unveil his debut solo project, ATONE, a vibrant fusion of hip hop, R&B, Neo-soul, and ballads infused with his signature melodic flair. ATONE ventures into uncharted creative territory, showcasing Levi’s boundless artistry and collaborative spirit. Each original composition reflects his personal inspiration and meticulous craftsmanship, highlighted by the talents of collaborator Leroy “Scooter” Taylor. With a storied history performing alongside luminaries like Wynton Marsalis and Marcus Miller, Kevin’s music transcends boundaries, inviting listeners to tap into their imagination and create their own narratives through his soul-stirring saxophone melodies.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

Hispanic Festival Community Message

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the soulful sounds of MiMi. A Baltimore native, Michelle Bowman blends jazz, gospel, classical, Afro-Cuban, and Neo-Soul into a captivating musical experience. Inspired by Billie Holiday and Donnie Hathaway, MiMi has graced stages from the White House to Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, sharing the spotlight with Jeffrey Osborne, Maysa, and Take 6. With international radio airplay and a new album, Truth and Love, on the way, she’s bringing her artistry to the world. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of culture, rhythm, and soul.

Rakiyah is a beacon of innovation in the music industry, blending R&B, cultural fusion, and storytelling. Before becoming an alternative R&B sensation, she was an aerospace engineer and studied in South Korea, influencing her unique musical style. Inspired by icons like Missy Elliot and Janet Jackson, Rakiyah’s experimental R&B defies boundaries. Her Korean-English song “Like You” showcased her cross-cultural versatility. With her EP Into the Cosmos in 2021, Rakiyah solidified her place in music, blending soulful melodies with thoughtful lyrics. Each song highlights her skill as a vocalist and storyteller, spanning genres and geographies.

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

This soul singer and ‘musical medicine woman’ duo uses their voices to promote love, healing, and transformation through music.

Award-winning group VERONNEAU delights audiences with their eclectic repertoire, featuring songs in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. Their vibrant musical world spans samba, bossa nova, swing, and French chanson, with original compositions. Based in Washington, D.C., VERONNEAU draws capacity crowds at major venues like Blues Alley, Strathmore Main Hall, and the Kennedy Center. They headline U.S. festivals such as the Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival, DC Jazz Festival, and Alexandria Jazz Fest, as well as the UK’s Beat Herder festival. Honored with multiple awards, their album Love & Surrender reached the Top 5 and stayed for four months.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

Enjoy some of the greatest hits from Earth, Wind & Fire, such as “Serpentine Fire,” “Shining Star,” “Can’t Hide Love,” “Fantasy,” “Reasons,” “I Write A Song,” and more. Get your tickets early for this amazing tribute.

Get ready for an electrifying evening with local rapper Nomad the Native! Known for his dynamic stage presence and thought-provoking lyrics, Nomad the Native brings a fresh and authentic voice to the hip-hop scene. With his unique style and powerful storytelling, Nomad will captivate the audience and create an atmosphere of energy and excitement. Throughout the evening, he will be joined by special guests, adding even more talent and surprise performances to the mix. Join us for a night of live music that celebrates the talent and creativity of one of the area’s most promising artists.

A Malian griot and Grammy-nominated musician, Diabate is a master of the n’goni (West African lute). He explores connections between West African and American string traditions, including collaborations with Béla Fleck.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

Experience a spectacular tribute to the music of Dreamgirls, the legendary Broadway musical that captured hearts with its powerful songs and performances. Performed by Ameya Taylor, Yana Martin, Blez Coe, and Tia Lydawn, these incredible vocalists bring their talents to this electrifying concert celebration. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music, spread the word, and get your tickets early!

Experience the unstoppable groove of Stanley Cooper–Holiday Edition! D.C.’s own Stanley Cooper has rocked stages with legends like Jimmy Sommers, Bobby Lyle, Marcus Johnson, and Stephanie Mills—and now, he’s bringing his electrifying guitar skills to a holiday-themed celebration. Influenced by greats like Wes Montgomery and Wah Wah Watson, Stanley blends jazz, funk, and soul into a pure magic sound. Feel the festive spirit as he sets the stage on fire with his signature style and infectious energy. Don’t miss this soulful holiday concert—get ready to groove and celebrate the season in style.

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

You are invited to a magical morning of holiday fun for the whole family. Create your Elf on a Shelf with Arts on a Roll, enjoy cookies and cocoa, and snap a photo with a special jolly guest! Then, experience the heartwarming children’s show Holidays Around the World at 11 am, performed by the CFA Repertory Theatre. Through music, dance, puppetry, and storytelling, journey globally to explore cultural traditions from Diwali to Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, and more. Join us for a festive family celebration filled with holiday magic and joy. This is a perfect holiday event for families and children of all ages!

Band of Roses is a stylistically unique and diverse all-female Jazz/Funk/R&B group from the DMV area. The members of Band of Roses have been singing, performing, and playing in sync as if they’d been together their entire musical careers. Notable members of the group include songstress Carmen Craven and saxophonist Sharon Thomas, who are recognized as some of the best in the DMV. They have won over the hearts of music lovers from all walks of life, performing at some of the most popular venues in the area. Come out and enjoy an evening of soulful entertainment by DMV’s finest, Band of Roses.

Christmastime is here! Montpelier Arts Center and The Eric Byrd Trio celebrate the season with an afternoon filled with festive music from the Peanuts’ special. Comprised of pianist/vocalist Eric Byrd, bassist Bhagwan Khalsa, and drummer Alphonso Young, Jr., the Trio has traveled the world as enthusiastic ambassadors of jazz. Bringing fresh arrangements to these familiar songs will surely put you in a holiday mood.

You will be treated to a great evening honoring the music of Stevie Wonder. Enjoy a performance from a catalog of his greatest hits, such as “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours,” “Superstition,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” “Master Blaster,” “Overjoyed,” “Part-Time Lover,” and more. Spread the word and come on out and enjoy this Tribute to the Music of Stevie Wonder.

Celebrate Black History Month with the soulful fusion of Memphis blues, New York fire, and D.C. flavor with the Muneer Nasser Quintet. A master trumpeter, composer, and jazz historian, Nasser brings his deep-rooted passion for jazz to the stage. His latest album, Blue House Session, is a vibrant mix of blues, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and timeless jazz energy. Celebrate Black History Month with an electrifying performance that honors the past while igniting the future of jazz. Don’t miss this unforgettable afternoon of music. Celebrate history. Experience the music.

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Celebrate Black History Month with an unforgettable music matinee featuring award-winning saxophonist Brent Birckhead and his sextet. Hailed by The New York Times as “one of the most riveting young improvisers in New York,” Birckhead blends tradition and innovation, drawing from jazz, soul, and activism. A Howard University alumnus, he has performed with legends like Lauryn Hill, Nas, and George Duke. Experience his powerful sound and storytelling, showcasing the depth of African American musical heritage. Don’t miss this special tribute—an afternoon of history, culture, and soul-stirring jazz!

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the BRENCORE Allstars, featuring the incredible Tia Lydawn and Ameya Taylor, honor the legendary ladies of soul. If you’re a fan of Stephanie Mills, Aretha Franklin, Teena Marie, and other iconic artists, gather your friends, grab your tickets, and immerse yourself in the soulful sounds and timeless hits that have shaped music history. Don’t miss this spectacular tribute to the queens of soul!

In honor of Black History Month, musician, author, and lecturer Daryl Davis will present a concert of the Roots of American Popular Music consisting of Blues, Boogie Woogie, Jazz, and Rock’n’Roll composed by Black musicians as performed by The Daryl Davis Trio.

A D.C.-based reggae group that maintains the authentic sound of Rasta Roots Reggae while spreading messages of social consciousness and spiritual wisdom.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

Forever Yours – Tribute To The O’Jays has quickly become one of today’s most outstanding tribute groups. The O’Jays have acknowledged them as a group worthy of carrying on their legacy. The group comprises some of the DMV’s most talented singers. Their renditions of such great hits as “Back Stabbers,” “Love Train,” “For The Love of Money,” and others will take you back to the days of your youth. They have graced the stages of popular local venues such as The Birchmere and Bethesda Blues and Jazz. Come out and get on the “Love Train” with Forever Yours – Tribute To The O’Jays.

Celebrate Women’s History Month and Mardi Gras with D.C.’s Queen of Blues. Join seven-time WAMMIE Award nominee Carly Harvey for a powerful afternoon of music, history, and soul! Known as “D.C.’s Queen of Blues,” Carly blends blues, jazz, soul, and Americana, channeling legends like Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, and Nina Simone. As an African American and Native American artist, she explores the deep connections between blues and Indigenous music, bringing a fresh and dynamic perspective to the stage. Don’t miss this electrifying celebration of culture, heritage, and the spirit of Mardi Gras!

A percussionist, hip-hop artist, and actor from D.C., Jabari Exum worked on the film Black Panther as a movement coach and lead djembe player. In his Percussion Theater concept, he fuses music, theater, and storytelling.

In honor of Women’s History Month, please join ensemble Con Brio! on a musical journey through compositions of these and other women composers. We hope you will enjoy this opportunity to celebrate the significant impact women composers have on popular and classical music.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

The Supreme Divas – Tribute To The Supremes comprises some of the DMV’s most talented artists. They flawlessly bring to life the music of one of the most successful female groups in American history, The Supremes. With twelve number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, The Supremes set the standard for female vocal groups during the ’60s and ’70s. Their chart-busting hits included “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me,” “Stop! In The Name of Love,” and many others. They will take you back to when the Motown sound was supreme.

Get ready for an afternoon of electrifying music as Kevin Levi takes the stage, blending hip-hop, R&B, neo-soul, and ballads with his signature rich and melodic saxophone sound. With over two decades as one of the most sought-after musicians on both coasts, Kevin brings an unforgettable performance that moves the soul and ignites the spirit. Now touring with his groundbreaking new album, ATONE, Kevin pushes creative boundaries with a fresh, rhythmically rooted sound, inspiring a new generation of saxophonists. Don’t miss your chance to witness this masterful musician live—feel the rhythm, embrace the soul, and experience the magic of Kevin Levi!

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Immerse yourself in the rich and musical traditions that span continents and cultures, bringing together the joyous and infectious rhythms that have shaped global music. Velebrate and move to the captivating sounds of Samba, Bossa Nova, Calypso, Cha Cha Cha, and other world beats. Join us for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the diversity and beauty of these timeless sounds.

Young Stars Live: A Showcase of Rising Talent! Get ready for an electrifying night of music, theater, and dance as the Young Stars take the stage. This dynamic showcase features incredible teen performers who have honed their talents through our artist development program, bringing creativity, passion, and high-energy performances to the spotlight. From powerful vocals to stunning choreography and captivating drama, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Come cheer on the next generation of stars and experience the magic of live performance. One night only—don’t miss it!

A high-energy folk ensemble specializing in medieval and Renaissance music, played on both period and modern instruments.

Dive into the electrifying journey of Prince’s early career with groundbreaking albums like Prince, Dirty Mind, and Controversy, where he masterfully blended religious and sexual themes. Experience the magic of his rise to superstardom with iconic albums 1999 and Purple Rain, featuring chart-topping hits like “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy.” Join us for an unforgettable evening as we honor the music of this legendary artist. Gather your friends, secure your tickets, and immerse yourself in the timeless sounds of Prince!

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

A spellbinding and hilarious lady, Miss Gayle began her comedy career at Jeff Valdez Comedy Club in Colorado Springs in 1992. After a standing ovation for her first performance, she was hooked. Born in Chatham, Virginia, and now residing in Danville, Virginia, she has been amusing audiences since age six. Known for her down-home humor, Miss Gayle is bright, energetic, and outrageously funny. She has headlined and featured before sold-out audiences nationwide, opened for national acts, and appeared on national television. She performs across the U.S. and abroad, captivating audiences with humor and charm.

Back by popular demand, celebrated vocalist Tomika Arnold has been hailed for her captivating and powerful voice. Ms. Arnold has shared the stage with music giants such as Michael Jackson, Sting, Bon Jovi, Beyonce, CeCe Winans, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, and Gloria Estefan. She has sung for three U.S. Presidents: President George W. Bush, President William Clinton, and the inauguration of President Barack Obama. A true powerhouse vocalist, this performance, including gospel, jazz, R&B, and everything in between, is not to be missed!

An oud virtuoso and Arabic vocalist, Foty has dedicated his life to preserving and innovating Arabic music. His work blends traditional Arabic folk with contemporary influences.

Experience the soulful and powerful music of Mary J. Blige like never before with this tribute performance. This event celebrates the iconic career of the multi-award-winning artist, known for her groundbreaking contributions to R&B and Hip-Hop. Talented musicians and vocalists come together to deliver an unforgettable evening filled with Blige’s greatest hits. From her early classics to her recent chart-toppers, you’ll be immersed in the emotional depth and vibrant energy that defines her music. Join us for a night of live music that honors the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, capturing her artistry’s essence and impact on the music industry. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this tribute promises to be a memorable celebration of Mary J. Blige’s legacy.

Instrumentalist, vocalist, bandleader, Master of Ceremonies, producer, and Harmony Hall favorite David Wright returns to Harmony Hall with his quartet of award-winning instrumentalists. As a member of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, Wright performed during six Presidential administrations. Wright received his master’s degree in music performance on the bassoon and performed on that instrument in the Concert Band and Chamber Orchestra. His duties also included performing as jazz saxophonist and vocalist with the eight-member White House Dance Band. For his Harmony Hall appearance, Wright will offer stories about each song. A variety of popular musical styles will have you tapping your feet with a smile on your face.

Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!

With intriguing soundscapes and dazzling visuals, Sonic Frontiers curates eclectic, improvisatory experiences with live electronic music and projection art. With a focus on community engagement, The DC Modular Collective members will host fall and spring mini-electronic music festivals at Brentwood Arts Exchange, presenting featured headliners, inviting drop-in performances, and offering hands-on education, demonstrations, and insight into this unique art form.

Experience the rhythm, culture, and soul of D.C.’s blues scene. Sweet Storm delivers soulful, heartfelt blues, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Stormi Weaver (vocals, guitar) and Willie Leebel (vocals, guitar) have performed together at bars, clubs, art openings, and private events for three years. Their collaboration also led to the formation of Stormi and the Blue Skies, a five-piece acoustic group. They met through the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation and call each other music spouses. Celebrate the legacy of Archie Edwards with a powerful blues concert, honoring African American music history and the Piedmont blues tradition.