Tango Class/Social by Madison Tango Society
Prepare for a tango extravaganza! Welcome to Tango Tuesdays!
Madison Tango Society hosts the Tango Classes (7 - 8:30 PM) at Cafe CODA on the main dance Floor every Tuesday!
At 8:30 PM, the Tango Social party will join forces with the Bachata dance crew for a night of diverse rhythms.
With only $10 (pay at the bar), you can join either Tango or Bachata groups for a class, and social is free.
*The Bachata group is in the back room. Class starts at 7:30 PM
ASTRO
Every Fourth Thursday
ASTRO (Anders Svanoe’s Teleporting Rhythmic Orchestra) is a fearless large ensemble that pushes the boundaries of contemporary jazz. Featuring an all-star lineup of improvisers from Madison, Milwaukee, and Decorah, Iowa, the band navigates a thrilling spectrum, from adventurous free improvisation to groove-driven, accessible compositions by acclaimed baritone saxophonist and composer Anders Svanoe. Every performance is spontaneous, dynamic, and full of surprising musical turns.
Samba Novistas
Samba Novistas returns for another evening of rich rhythms and vibrant Brazilian sound 🇧🇷
Blending samba, bossa nova, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), this group brings a smooth, soulful energy that’s perfect for both unwinding and moving to the music. Expect warm melodies, infectious grooves, and a sound that transports you straight to Brazil for the night 🌴
DJ Francis Medrano - Latin Night
🔥We got great vibes as DJ Francis Medrano takes over Café CODA🎶
Come dance, connect, and enjoy a night of music in one of Madison’s favorite live-music spaces.
💃Bring your crew and come ready to dance! 🔥
José Guzmán
7 PM
José Guzmán Borrero, a native of Ponce, Puerto Rico, is a multi-genre guitarist who has performed with jazz ensembles, chamber groups, and rock bands. He leads the Latin jazz group, The Afro-Caribbean Jazz Collective, that blends the heart of Afro-Caribbean rhythms with the sophistication of modern jazz. Guzmán was the artistic director for the Cafelao Jazz Festival that took place in Ponce, PR in 2012 and 2013. As a side man, he recorded on Dimijtre Vasiljevic's Accidental Nomad (released on Rope a Dope Records), KASA String Quartet Forever Wild Vol 1, and Mr. Chair's Better Days among others. Guzmán has performed as an artist in residence at the Caroga Lake Music Festival as both a classical and jazz guitarist. He has received grants from the city of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, the Illinois Arts Council, the Music Performance Trust Fund , the city of Urbana Arts Grant, and the Boulder County Arts Alliance Pathways to Jazz Grant.
$25
Haunted House Party - DJ Cowboy
🤠🔥 MEET DJ COWBOY
With 20 years behind the decks, DJ Cowboy brings high-energy vibes, smooth transitions, and unexpected mixes that keep you guessing. Originally born in Columbia, South Carolina, but proudly calling Madison, Wisconsin, home, he’s taken his sound across multiple states, building a reputation for bringing something fresh and different to the dance floor. And that signature cowboy style? He adopted it over a decade ago in South Carolina!
On Friday, October 24, DJ Cowboy is taking over Café CODA for our HAUNTED HOUSE PARTY! 👻🎶
Expect House, R&B, and Hip House with twists you won’t see coming. This isn't your typical night out, it's a whole different experience that you don’t want to miss!
📍 1224 Williamson St
🕚 11 PM – 2 AM
🎟️ $20 cover
🤠🔥 MEET DJ COWBOY
With 20 years behind the decks, DJ Cowboy brings high-energy vibes, smooth transitions, and unexpected mixes that keep you guessing. Originally born in Columbia, South Carolina, but proudly calling Madison, Wisconsin, home, he’s taken his sound across multiple states, building a reputation for bringing something fresh and different to the dance floor. And that signature cowboy style? He adopted it over a decade ago in South Carolina!
On Friday, October 24, DJ Cowboy is taking over Café CODA for our HAUNTED HOUSE PARTY! 👻🎶
Expect House, R&B, and Hip House with twists you won’t see coming. This isn't your typical night out, it's a whole different experience that you don’t want to miss!
📍 1224 Williamson St
🕚 11 PM – 2 AM
🎟️ $20 cover
Tani Diakite and Afrofunkstars
7PM
Tani and the Afrofunkstars are an ever-evolving ensemble rooted in the rich musical traditions of Wasulu, a region spanning the border of Mali and Guinea. Drawing from a diverse palette of West African rhythms and instruments, Tani Diakite captures the vibrant spirit of Wasulu music through infectious percussion, soulful vocals, and the bright tones of native stringed instruments. At the heart of the sound is the kamale n'goni, played by Tani himself, a West African lute often regarded as an ancestor of the banjo. Traditionally associated with Malian hunters, Wasulu music was believed to charm the spirits of the animals they pursued. Its deep musical lineage helped shape the foundations of blues and world music while foreshadowing genres such as bluegrass and folk.
The Afrofunkstars channel this heritage into performances that are both uplifting and deeply spiritual, inspiring audiences and fellow musicians alike. A defining feature of the band is its fluid lineup: each show brings together a unique mix of collaborators, singers, and instrumentalists, ensuring that no two performances are ever the same. That unpredictability is part of the magic of a live Afrofunkstars show, you never know what's coming next. One thing, however, is certain; before long, you will be swept up in the band's irresistible spirit, dancing, moving, and fully immersed in the groove.
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
Adem Tesfaye
Adem Tesfaye is an award-winning singer-songwriter, emcee, and hip-hop guitarist whose music fuses funk, reggae, blues, and hip-hop into an electrifying sound. Known for his compelling storytelling and commanding stage presence, Adem’s rich baritone voice exudes soulful warmth, charisma, and lyrical depth.
Adem’s journey began in Madison, WI, where he co-founded the hip-hop band The Black Poets Society with Lacouir Yancey. During this early period, he shared stages with legendary performers such as Redman, Method Man, De La Soul, Pharcyde, Ben Harper, Spearhead, and Jazzmatazz, cementing his reputation as a rising talent in the Midwest.
After moving to Seattle, Adem expanded his artistry by learning to play the guitar, a skill that added depth to his music. Following three years back in Madison, where he recorded the EP The Soul Rap Movement, Adem ventured to New York City for 15 transformative years. There, he collaborated with acclaimed producers like Rick Flowers, Mannie Sanchez, and Matt Mueller and released the album Athehdage, further refining his unique blend of genres.
In 2020, Adem’s plans for a national tour were cut short by the pandemic, leading him back to Madison. Since his return, he has released the EP Adem Tesfaye Band, performed in Paris, Chicago, and across Wisconsin, and wowed audiences with his band’s soulful fusion of rock and R&B. Their self-titled album and hit single The Wave have earned critical acclaim and captivated fans nationwide.
Adem’s achievements include the 2024 Leadership Award for Musician of the Year from Madison 365. His band, the Adem Tesfaye Band, has been nominated for Band of the Year by WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) in both 2024 and 2025.
Currently in the studio recording a new project Barby Lane & another Solo LP, Adem continues to evolve his sound and artistry. Whether performing solo or with his band, he delivers unforgettable experiences that reflect his journey from Madison to Seattle, New York City, and beyond.
DJ Terrence J Halloween Bash
🎃 DJ TERRENCE J’S HALLOWEEN BASH 👻
Halloween night is going OFF at Café CODA! Get dressed to impress, pull up with your crew, and get ready for a late-night party with DJ Terrence J.
Whether you’re coming as a classic horror icon, your favorite character, or something completely different... COME IN COSTUME! 🕷️
🏆 COSTUME CONTEST - Come ready to show out.
🎧 Music by DJ Terrence J
💰 $20 Cover
🕚 11 PM – 2 AM
📅 Saturday, October 31, 2026
Costumes encouraged. Energy required. 👀
📍 1224 Williamson St
🎃 DJ TERRENCE J’S HALLOWEEN BASH 👻
Halloween night is going OFF at Café CODA! Get dressed to impress, pull up with your crew, and get ready for a late-night party with DJ Terrence J.
Whether you’re coming as a classic horror icon, your favorite character, or something completely different... COME IN COSTUME! 🕷️
🏆 COSTUME CONTEST - Come ready to show out.
🎧 Music by DJ Terrence J
💰 $20 Cover
🕚 11 PM – 2 AM
📅 Saturday, October 31, 2026
Costumes encouraged. Energy required. 👀
📍 1224 Williamson St
Jumptown Swing
Neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor flurries nor gloom of night stays these dancers from Jumptown's weekly Wednesday Social at Cafe Coda! New to Swing dancing? No problem! There's a beginner-friendly 6-count Lindy lesson at 7:30 pm! Then stay for the social and a flurry of dancing with your cool new moves! We'll be here 'til 10:00!
There is no online pay for this event. Please pay Jumptown when you arrive.
Karaoke Wednesday
Karaoke until last call.
Indulge in some well-deserved relaxation after a hectic day because you've earned it!
Join us Wednesday evening at 8 PM for this FREE event.
Whether you're looking to sip cocktails with friends or release some stress with your co-workers, Monday nights are now dedicated to your moment in the spotlight and unwinding in style.
Come by yourself or with your friends for a memorable evening!
Music starts at 8PM. Free event!
Happy Hour - Gerri DiMaggio FREE!
Nov 6 | FRI | 5 PM
Gerri DiMaggio’s take on jazz is as original as it is enticing. Her music is a sultry mix of Brazilian melodies along with a fresh blend of Jazz standards. The Latin sounds invite the audience into her own creative and colorful world. Throughout the music, Gerri displays an emotional intelligence and musical sophistication that honors the traditions of Jazz and Latin rhythms, telling stories with tones of sadness and bittersweet joy. Her working band includes some of the finest musicians in the area, including Paul Hastil on piano, Bob Pesselman on guitar, John Mesoloras on bass, and Rich Larson on percussion, along with special guests.
FREE!
Sista Sensi & the Buds
🇯🇲 LIVE REGGAE AT CAFÉ CODA: SISTA SENSI & THE BUDS 🇯🇲
Get ready for an evening of reggae rhythms, authentic Jamaican vibes, and a story of resilience, passion, and a lifelong love of music!
Join us Friday, November 6th at 7 PM and 9 PM at Café CODA as we welcome Sista Sensi & the Buds for a night celebrating the roots, spirit, and soul of reggae.
Sista Sensi's connection to Jamaica began when she was just a child growing up in Wisconsin. By age 22, she had made her dream of living in Jamaica a reality, immersing herself in the island's vibrant music scene during reggae's explosive rise in the 1970s. Along the way, she encountered legendary artists, absorbed the sounds and culture of Jamaica, and forged a musical path entirely her own.
A singer, songwriter, and performer with decades of experience, Sensi has toured with reggae greats, collaborated with celebrated artists including King Yellowman, Josey Wales, and U-Roy, and released original music that reflects her life, experiences, and unwavering spirit. After years of performing and recording, she formed Sista Sensi & the Buds to bring her own musical vision to life.
Her journey is one of perseverance, independence, and the healing power of music. Now, she's bringing that passion to Café CODA for a night of reggae you won't want to miss!
📅 Friday, November 6th
🕖 Showtimes: 7 PM & 9 PM
🎟️ $15 Cover
📍 1224 WILLIAMSON ST
🇯🇲 LIVE REGGAE AT CAFÉ CODA: SISTA SENSI & THE BUDS 🇯🇲
Get ready for an evening of reggae rhythms, authentic Jamaican vibes, and a story of resilience, passion, and a lifelong love of music!
Join us Friday, November 6th at 7 PM and 9 PM at Café CODA as we welcome Sista Sensi & the Buds for a night celebrating the roots, spirit, and soul of reggae.
Sista Sensi's connection to Jamaica began when she was just a child growing up in Wisconsin. By age 22, she had made her dream of living in Jamaica a reality, immersing herself in the island's vibrant music scene during reggae's explosive rise in the 1970s. Along the way, she encountered legendary artists, absorbed the sounds and culture of Jamaica, and forged a musical path entirely her own.
A singer, songwriter, and performer with decades of experience, Sensi has toured with reggae greats, collaborated with celebrated artists including King Yellowman, Josey Wales, and U-Roy, and released original music that reflects her life, experiences, and unwavering spirit. After years of performing and recording, she formed Sista Sensi & the Buds to bring her own musical vision to life.
Her journey is one of perseverance, independence, and the healing power of music. Now, she's bringing that passion to Café CODA for a night of reggae you won't want to miss!
📅 Friday, November 6th
🕖 Showtimes: 7 PM & 9 PM
🎟️ $15 Cover
📍 Café CODA | Madison, WI
🇯🇲 LIVE REGGAE AT CAFÉ CODA: SISTA SENSI & THE BUDS 🇯🇲
Get ready for an evening of reggae rhythms, authentic Jamaican vibes, and a story of resilience, passion, and a lifelong love of music!
Join us Friday, November 6th at 7 PM and 9 PM at Café CODA as we welcome Sista Sensi & the Buds for a night celebrating the roots, spirit, and soul of reggae.
Sista Sensi's connection to Jamaica began when she was just a child growing up in Wisconsin. By age 22, she had made her dream of living in Jamaica a reality, immersing herself in the island's vibrant music scene during reggae's explosive rise in the 1970s. Along the way, she encountered legendary artists, absorbed the sounds and culture of Jamaica, and forged a musical path entirely her own.
A singer, songwriter, and performer with decades of experience, Sensi has toured with reggae greats, collaborated with celebrated artists including King Yellowman, Josey Wales, and U-Roy, and released original music that reflects her life, experiences, and unwavering spirit. After years of performing and recording, she formed Sista Sensi & the Buds to bring her own musical vision to life.
Her journey is one of perseverance, independence, and the healing power of music. Now, she's bringing that passion to Café CODA for a night of reggae you won't want to miss!
📅 Friday, November 6th
🕖 Showtimes: 7 PM & 9 PM
🎟️ $15 Cover
📍 Café CODA | Madison, WI
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
Julian Reid
🎹 LIVE JAZZ AT CAFÉ CODA: JULIAN DAVIS REID — MERCY WE NEED
Experience an evening of contemplative jazz, emotional depth, and music that speaks to the soul.
Julian Davis Reid's intern here with some promotional content for his upcoming show! I have included a formal bio below. I have also attached a link to one of the music videos from the new album along with a write up about the album. Additionally, I have attached a photo of the band and a photo of Julian. Please let me know if you'd like any additional material - happy to provide whatever you need.
Julian Davis Reid Bio: Julian Davis Reid is a contemplative, emotionally dynamic pianist and composer. His new album, Mercy We Need, was released on September 25th. His group’s two-set performance will walk through the album, which looks at the graces of mercy we need in this life.
Band Members:
Julian Davis Reid - Piano
Ethan Philion - Bass
James Russell Sims - Drums
Tramaine Parker - Vocals
Julian Davis Reid is a contemplative pianist and composer from Chicago who seeks our collective transformation as the new world unfolds. His compositions and performances are emotionally dynamic, drawing from the worlds of Robert Glasper, Keith Jarrett, and Herbie Hancock. Reid steadily releases and performs music under his own name—Julian Davis Reid & Circle of Trust—and formed part of the jazz-electronic fusion group The JuJu Exchange. He has recently released his first two full-length releases: Vocation, under his own name, and BEHOLD, with The JuJu Exchange.
A former member of Isaiah Collier & The Chosen Few, Reid has performed across North America and Europe at events including the Montreal Jazz Fest, Lollapalooza, and the Berlin Jazz Fest. He has also created with Jennifer Hudson, Chance the Rapper, Tank and the Bangas, Andrew Bird, Jamila Woods, Derrick Hodge, Keyon Harrold, Kenneth Whalum, Nat Reeves, and Abiodun Oyewole from The Last Poets.
An award-winning writer, Reid shares about his journey as an artist-theologian on his Substack “Julian’s Note.” He has published essays in several books, including Naming the Spirit: Pneumatology through the Arts (2025). In 2021, Reid founded a project in contemplative spirituality called Notes of Rest, which offers an integrated approach to faith, restfulness, and Black music. Reid’s work has been covered in the New York Times, Forbes, Sojourners, Billboard, and DownBeat. He lives in Chicago with his wife and daughter.
Website: juliandavisreid.com
Watch the “Mercy We Need” music video: Watch on YouTube
📅 Saturday, November 7th
🕖 Showtimes: 7 PM & 9 PM
🎟️ $25 Cover
📍 1224 WILLIAMSON ST
🎹 LIVE JAZZ AT CAFÉ CODA: JULIAN DAVIS REID — MERCY WE NEED
Experience an evening of contemplative jazz, emotional depth, and music that speaks to the soul.
Julian Davis Reid's intern here with some promotional content for his upcoming show! I have included a formal bio below. I have also attached a link to one of the music videos from the new album along with a write up about the album. Additionally, I have attached a photo of the band and a photo of Julian. Please let me know if you'd like any additional material - happy to provide whatever you need.
Julian Davis Reid Bio: Julian Davis Reid is a contemplative, emotionally dynamic pianist and composer. His new album, Mercy We Need, was released on September 25th. His group’s two-set performance will walk through the album, which looks at the graces of mercy we need in this life.
Band Members:
Julian Davis Reid - Piano
Ethan Philion - Bass
James Russell Sims - Drums
Tramaine Parker - Vocals
Julian Davis Reid is a contemplative pianist and composer from Chicago who seeks our collective transformation as the new world unfolds. His compositions and performances are emotionally dynamic, drawing from the worlds of Robert Glasper, Keith Jarrett, and Herbie Hancock. Reid steadily releases and performs music under his own name—Julian Davis Reid & Circle of Trust—and formed part of the jazz-electronic fusion group The JuJu Exchange. He has recently released his first two full-length releases: Vocation, under his own name, and BEHOLD, with The JuJu Exchange.
A former member of Isaiah Collier & The Chosen Few, Reid has performed across North America and Europe at events including the Montreal Jazz Fest, Lollapalooza, and the Berlin Jazz Fest. He has also created with Jennifer Hudson, Chance the Rapper, Tank and the Bangas, Andrew Bird, Jamila Woods, Derrick Hodge, Keyon Harrold, Kenneth Whalum, Nat Reeves, and Abiodun Oyewole from The Last Poets.
An award-winning writer, Reid shares about his journey as an artist-theologian on his Substack “Julian’s Note.” He has published essays in several books, including Naming the Spirit: Pneumatology through the Arts (2025). In 2021, Reid founded a project in contemplative spirituality called Notes of Rest, which offers an integrated approach to faith, restfulness, and Black music. Reid’s work has been covered in the New York Times, Forbes, Sojourners, Billboard, and DownBeat. He lives in Chicago with his wife and daughter.
Website: juliandavisreid.com
Watch the “Mercy We Need” music video: Watch on YouTube
📅 Saturday, November 7th
🕖 Showtimes: 7 PM & 9 PM
🎟️ $25 Cover
📍 1224 WILLIAMSON ST
🎹 LIVE JAZZ AT CAFÉ CODA: JULIAN DAVIS REID — MERCY WE NEED
Experience an evening of contemplative jazz, emotional depth, and music that speaks to the soul.
Julian Davis Reid's intern here with some promotional content for his upcoming show! I have included a formal bio below. I have also attached a link to one of the music videos from the new album along with a write up about the album. Additionally, I have attached a photo of the band and a photo of Julian. Please let me know if you'd like any additional material - happy to provide whatever you need.
Julian Davis Reid Bio: Julian Davis Reid is a contemplative, emotionally dynamic pianist and composer. His new album, Mercy We Need, was released on September 25th. His group’s two-set performance will walk through the album, which looks at the graces of mercy we need in this life.
Band Members:
Julian Davis Reid - Piano
Ethan Philion - Bass
James Russell Sims - Drums
Tramaine Parker - Vocals
Julian Davis Reid is a contemplative pianist and composer from Chicago who seeks our collective transformation as the new world unfolds. His compositions and performances are emotionally dynamic, drawing from the worlds of Robert Glasper, Keith Jarrett, and Herbie Hancock. Reid steadily releases and performs music under his own name—Julian Davis Reid & Circle of Trust—and formed part of the jazz-electronic fusion group The JuJu Exchange. He has recently released his first two full-length releases: Vocation, under his own name, and BEHOLD, with The JuJu Exchange.
A former member of Isaiah Collier & The Chosen Few, Reid has performed across North America and Europe at events including the Montreal Jazz Fest, Lollapalooza, and the Berlin Jazz Fest. He has also created with Jennifer Hudson, Chance the Rapper, Tank and the Bangas, Andrew Bird, Jamila Woods, Derrick Hodge, Keyon Harrold, Kenneth Whalum, Nat Reeves, and Abiodun Oyewole from The Last Poets.
An award-winning writer, Reid shares about his journey as an artist-theologian on his Substack “Julian’s Note.” He has published essays in several books, including Naming the Spirit: Pneumatology through the Arts (2025). In 2021, Reid founded a project in contemplative spirituality called Notes of Rest, which offers an integrated approach to faith, restfulness, and Black music. Reid’s work has been covered in the New York Times, Forbes, Sojourners, Billboard, and DownBeat. He lives in Chicago with his wife and daughter.
Website: juliandavisreid.com
Watch the “Mercy We Need” music video: Watch on YouTube
📅 Saturday, November 7th
🕖 Showtimes: 7 PM & 9 PM
🎟️ $25 Cover
📍 Café CODA | Madison, WI
Jumptown Swing
Neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor flurries nor gloom of night stays these dancers from Jumptown's weekly Wednesday Social at Cafe Coda! New to Swing dancing? No problem! There's a beginner-friendly 6-count Lindy lesson at 7:30 pm! Then stay for the social and a flurry of dancing with your cool new moves! We'll be here 'til 10:00!
There is no online pay for this event. Please pay Jumptown when you arrive.
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
Jumptown Swing
Neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor flurries nor gloom of night stays these dancers from Jumptown's weekly Wednesday Social at Cafe Coda! New to Swing dancing? No problem! There's a beginner-friendly 6-count Lindy lesson at 7:30 pm! Then stay for the social and a flurry of dancing with your cool new moves! We'll be here 'til 10:00!
There is no online pay for this event. Please pay Jumptown when you arrive.
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
Jumptown Swing
Neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor flurries nor gloom of night stays these dancers from Jumptown's weekly Wednesday Social at Cafe Coda! New to Swing dancing? No problem! There's a beginner-friendly 6-count Lindy lesson at 7:30 pm! Then stay for the social and a flurry of dancing with your cool new moves! We'll be here 'til 10:00!
There is no online pay for this event. Please pay Jumptown when you arrive.
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
DJ Shameless
🔥 A LOW DOWN DIRTY SHAMELESS SATURDAY - DJ SHAMELESS 🔥
Madison, you already know what time it is! 😈 Get ready to turn up and get a little shameless this Saturday night at Café CODA!
We’re bringing the late-night vibes, the grown-and-sexy energy, and the beats that'll keep you moving. DJ Shameless is taking over the decks, setting the tone for a night of good music, good people, and absolutely NO reason to sit still!
Whether you're coming to dance, unwind, link up with your crew, or let loose after a long week, this is your invitation to get down and dirty with us.
📅 Saturday, October 17th
🕙 10 PM – 2AM
🎟️ $10 Cover
📍 1224 WILLIAMSON ST
🔥 A LOW DOWN DIRTY SHAMELESS SATURDAY - DJ SHAMELESS 🔥
Madison, you already know what time it is! 😈 Get ready to turn up and get a little shameless this Saturday night at Café CODA!
We’re bringing the late-night vibes, the grown-and-sexy energy, and the beats that'll keep you moving. DJ Shameless is taking over the decks, setting the tone for a night of good music, good people, and absolutely NO reason to sit still!
Whether you're coming to dance, unwind, link up with your crew, or let loose after a long week, this is your invitation to get down and dirty with us.
📅 Saturday, October 17th
🕙 10 PM – 2AM
🎟️ $10 Cover
📍 1224 WILLIAMSON ST
Event Horizon Jazz Quartet
🎷 LIVE JAZZ AT CAFÉ CODA: EVENT HORIZON JAZZ QUARTET
Get ready for an evening of original jazz, masterful musicianship, and grooves that keep you listening! 🎶
Join us Saturday, October 17th at 7 PM at Café CODA as we welcome the Event Horizon Jazz Quartet, a Chicago-based group bringing its own creative voice to jazz through original compositions, dynamic interplay, and captivating rhythms.
Featuring Jim Kaczmarek on saxophone and flute, Scott Mertens on keys, Donn De Santo on bass, and Rick Vitek on drums, this talented quartet blends sophisticated melodies, inventive arrangements, and a swinging rhythm section into a sound all their own.
Whether you're a lifelong jazz lover or simply looking for a night of exceptional live music, this is your invitation to experience jazz that's adventurous, soulful, and full of surprises.
📅 Saturday, October 17th
🕖 7 PM
🎟️ $20 Cover
🎷 LIVE JAZZ AT CAFÉ CODA: EVENT HORIZON JAZZ QUARTET
Get ready for an evening of original jazz, masterful musicianship, and grooves that keep you listening! 🎶
Join us Saturday, October 17th at 7 PM at Café CODA as we welcome the Event Horizon Jazz Quartet, a Chicago-based group bringing its own creative voice to jazz through original compositions, dynamic interplay, and captivating rhythms.
Featuring Jim Kaczmarek on saxophone and flute, Scott Mertens on keys, Donn De Santo on bass, and Rick Vitek on drums, this talented quartet blends sophisticated melodies, inventive arrangements, and a swinging rhythm section into a sound all their own.
Whether you're a lifelong jazz lover or simply looking for a night of exceptional live music, this is your invitation to experience jazz that's adventurous, soulful, and full of surprises.
📅 Saturday, October 17th
🕖 7 PM
🎟️ $20 Cover
Tango Class & Social
Tango Class starts at 2 PM, $15 cover
Social from 3PM to 5 PM, $5 cover
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
Fred Cantu
Fred Cantu is a trumpeter, bandleader, educator, and composer with a dynamic career spanning jazz, big band, Latin music, television, and touring. A lead trumpeter with the Buddy Rich Big Band and a regular member of Grammy-nominated Cuban jazz pianist Chuchito Valdés’ ensemble, Fred has performed at major jazz festivals across the country and tours internationally with the Elvis Tribute Tour for Elvis Presley Enterprises.
A native of the Chicagoland area, Fred leads his own 13-piece big band and maintains a busy schedule of performances, clinics, recording sessions, and guest appearances. His playing has been featured on numerous recordings and on WGN’s Singsation. He has appeared at festivals including the Chicago Jazz Festival, Detroit Jazz Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival, and Aspen Snowmass Jazz Festival. Fred released his second album, M.F.G., in 2021.
Madison Jazz Orchestra
7PM
It’s that time again, the Madison Jazz Orchestra performs! Come hear some of the best in the cozy confines of Cafe CODA.
It’s that time again, the Madison Jazz Orchestra performs! Come hear some of the best in the cozy confines of Cafe CODA. The hottest, swingin’est jazz orchestra in southern Wisconsin, the nineteen-piece MJO performs charts from the golden era of big bands: Fletch Henderson, Count Basie, Thad Jones, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, Duke Ellington, and more.
Jumptown Swing
Neither snow nor rain nor sleet nor flurries nor gloom of night stays these dancers from Jumptown's weekly Wednesday Social at Cafe Coda! New to Swing dancing? No problem! There's a beginner-friendly 6-count Lindy lesson at 7:30 pm! Then stay for the social and a flurry of dancing with your cool new moves! We'll be here 'til 10:00!
There is no online pay for this event. Please pay Jumptown when you arrive.
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
DJ Francis Medrano - Latin Night
🔥We got great vibes as DJ Francis Medrano takes over Café CODA🎶
Come dance, connect, and enjoy a night of music in one of Madison’s favorite live-music spaces.
💃Bring your crew and come ready to dance! 🔥
La Vaporera Ciencia y Arte en Español
“La Vaporera: Ciencia y Arte en Español” es un simposio organizando como parte del Wisconsin Science Festival para promocionar la ciencia y el arte en español. Su nombre viene de STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) que significa “vapor” en español.
Doug White Quartet
This show features rich, liquid flute and sax playing by Tom Gullion, smooth, solid bass by Mark Urness, fascinating drum rhythms by Dane Richeson, and sensitive, lively piano and organ by Doug White. This performance is free of charge. Freewill offerings are encouraged to help keep the music flowing. We hope you can join us at Cafe CODA!
Tom Gullion is a vibrant and innovative jazz saxophonist and flutist whose adventurous improvisations have earned him a global reputation as a creative jazz musician. His mastery of the saxophone and flute, combined with his passion for experimenting with musical genres and styles, has made him a sought-after performer and collaborator.
Tom has recorded and performed with some of the world’s most renowned jazz musicians. His live performances, both solo and with his band, have left audiences in awe, as he takes them on a journey of musical exploration.
Dane Richeson integrates the rhythms of jazz, rock, funk, classical, African, and Brazilian music into creative and intriguing improvisations. He has played with Bobby McFerrin, Gordon Stout, Gunther Schuller, Geoffrey Keezer, Joe Lovano, NDR Big Band of Germany, Roscoe Mitchell, Medeski-Martin-Woods, Kenny Wheeler, Danilo Perez, and Lyle Mays.
Mark Urness is widely sought as a master of jazz and classical bass. He teaches jazz at Lawrence University.
Doug White is a multi-genre keyboardist who has toured internationally and played in the Midwest jazz scene with Clyde Stubblefield, Les Thimmig, and Brian Lynch.
🎶 FRI, October 9
🕖 Show at 5pm
🎟️ Free
Nzinga
Nzinga is a singer/songwriter and guitarist born and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is currently touring the U.S. to promote her first studio recorded EP, Wait and See. In her genre-fluid work, Nzinga takes inspiration from jazz, pop, folk and neo-soul; she blends various styles with her individual tone to create a unique and inviting sound. Through her artistry, Nzinga seeks to create a space for relaxation, inspiration and reflection on the complex beauty of life.
Playin' the Standards: A Jam Session Hosted by Jan Hora
The Standard’s Session is a monthly jazz jam here at Café Coda, inspired by the legendary player-focused sessions of New York City. Expect great musicians, classic tunes, and plenty of room to take chances.
The evening begins with a 45-minute house band set featuring a rotating quintet exploring standards, swing, bebop, hard bop, and the Great American Songbook. Then the stage opens for an all-levels jam. Musicians can sign up, call a tune, and sit in with the band. Come ready to listen, communicate, and improvise, not simply read from a chart.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, advancing student, weekend player, or simply a jazz lover, The Standard’s Session is a place to listen, play, and become part of the music.
House Band: Led by Jan (Yani) Hora on trumpet
5:00 PM — House Band Set
~6:00 PM — Open Jam Begins then we finish when the music says we’re done.
Bring your instrument. Bring your ears. Bring a tune.
Jan Hora is a trumpet player who has toured internationally on cruise ships and Broadway tours and now runs his own music company, providing entertainment for weddings and events.
Strictly R&B: Homecoming Edition
October 3
11PM - DRESS TO IMPRESS
Johannes Wallmann
Johannes Wallmann, piano
Riley Mulherkar, trumpet
Nick Moran, bass
Mitchell Shiner, drums
Jazz pianist and composer Johannes Wallmann is a recording artist on Shifting Paradigm Records, and a Yamaha Piano artist, who has performed extensively as a bandleader and as a sideman in local, national, and international venues. DownBeat magazine has called Wallmann “a remarkable pianist and composer [whose] evocative compositions are brimming with melodic cogency and rhythmic pull” and called his playing “confident, muscular and elegant.”
In 2012, he joined the faculty of the University of Wisconsin-Madison as Director of Jazz Studies and the inaugural holder of the John and Carolyn Peterson Chair in Jazz Studies. He recently released his twelfth album as a leader, Not Tired, of which TomaJazz (Spain) writes: “Wallmann has skillfully balanced his academic work with a discography that never ceases to amaze. […] Beyond the music, Not Tired reflects Wallmann's maturity as a composer and leader. His writing balances structure and freedom, and his direction fosters interaction without rigid hierarchies. The result is an album that, once finished, invites you to listen attentively again, revealing new nuances with each listen. Just as the title suggests, Not Tired never gets old. A must-have reference point among those released in 2025.”
Trumpeter Riley Mulherkar is a founding member of The Westerlies and in 2024 released his debut album Riley, hailed as “über hip, modern yet timeless…one of the best debut records to come out in a long, long time” (DownBeat Magazine). Since, he has played with everyone from Kenny Barron and Dee Dee Bridgewater to Anna Deavere Smith and Alan Cumming, and in 2020 received Lincoln Center’s prestigious Emerging Artist Award for his work as “an original bandleader, composer, arranger, educator, community activist and advocate for jazz and the arts.”
Riley, his opening recorded salvo as a soloist, is the sonically modern setting for Mulherkar’s vulnerable, melodious interpretation of the rich tradition with sound design shaped by producers Rafiq Bhatia and Chris Pattishall. Enveloping Mulherkar within a series of textured, intricately-crafted spaces, Bhatia and Pattishall train a cinematographer’s lens on the continuum of great old songs, as well as new Mulherkar pieces which fit right into a radically bold audio framework for the emotional pronouncements of Riley’s horn. Riley is an Edwards Artist and performs on Edwards trumpets.
Award winning bassist, composer and Shifting Paradigm recording artist John Christensen supplies an open-hearted solidity and adventurous spirit to all of his music endeavors. With an appetite for expressing in many musical genres and situations, John has found a unique compositional voice, as demonstrated on his highly acclaimed debut album as a leader, Dear Friend. While an ardent student and practitioner of improvised Black American Music, John’s music also has deep roots in Rock, Folk, and Americana. His compositions strive toward a hopefulness and appreciation for the beauty and awe of life, and the wonder of small, important things. John Christensen began his bass studies with Chris Wood in high school. After brief stints at Berklee College and North Texas, John moved to San Francisco and played in the burgeoning music scene during the late 90’s. Since Moving to Wisconsin in 1999 John has become a highly sought-after side musician, playing with numerous regional and international artists and bands. He leads his own groups and is also a co-founder of Lesser Lakes Trio with longtime collaborators Devin Drobka and Jamie Breiwick as well as KASE, an improvised hip hop trio with Jamie and Turntablist Jordan Lee.
Mitchell Shiner is a vibraphonist, drummer, composer, and educator based in Milwaukee, WI. Shiner graduated from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music with a Bachelor’s in Jazz Studies. Shiner studied with Professors Steve Houghton, Michael Spiro, Wayne Wallace, Brent Wallarab, and Dr. David Baker. Shiner is a dedicated educator, facilitating percussion and Jazz programs for students of all ages throughout the Milwaukee area. Currently, he is pursuing a Master’s in Music Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and serving as a Teaching Assistant in the Jazz Studies area.
Shiner is a bandleader and composer. “Mitchell Shiner Latin Vibes” has been featured by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and the Jewish Community Center for events like Latkes Con Salsa and Carnaval De Purim. “Precarious Towers” is a Midwest all-star group of players and educators performing inspired compositions in the spirit of joy and collaboration. “Match Stick” is a tour de force fusion band playing genre-bending original material for an electric quartet.
While away from noise-making activities, Shiner enjoys cooking, gardening, crafting wind chimes out of teapots and silverware, and spending time with his family, his wife, and their dog – a very fluffy Pomeranian named Lucky.
Experience a night of innovative jazz with these masterful musicians pushing boundaries and celebrating the beauty of improvisation and collaboration.
Cool School
Cafe CODA is thrilled to announce the return of Cool School, the free Saturday morning music clinic for kids! This program introduces young people to the transformative power of music. At Cool School, children have the chance to pick up instruments, learn directly from experienced musicians, and experience the joy of creating sound together.
Nikki D & The Sisters of Thunder
Nikki D & The Sisters of Thunder is a multi-generational, family-based group from Toledo, Ohio. Their unique style is Gospel with Blues riffs and grooves, all punctuated by Nikki D’s wildly soulful and electrifying steel guitar. In fact, in 2016, Guitar World magazine described Nikki as “The Jimi Hendrix of Sacred Steel”, because of her willingness to experiment with vocal-like riffs and runs. She’s also a soulful vocalist who commands the attention of those who hear her raspy, yet sultry voice.
Their music has allowed them to open for artists like Jack White’s Raconteurs, Grammy Award winner Ceelo Green, and travel internationally to perform on the same stage as Sarah McLachlan. Their mission is to Impact Lives, Inspire Hope, and Ignite Joy. You can expect a forecast of hand clapping and foot tapping!