Band Schedule

January 13, 2026 – Le Jazz Hot

Le Jazz Hot

Led by Paul Mehling, the “Godfather of Gypsy Jazz in the USA”, and inspired by the music of the great Django Reinhardt and his famous Quintet of the Hot Club of France, Le Jazz Hot (a.k.a. The Hot Club of San Francisco) will transport you back in time to the hot, mysterious, and romantic swing music of 1920s Paris.  Voulez-vous danser?

January 20, 2026 – Mike Rinta & The Swing Therapists

Mike Rinta & The Swing Therapists
Mike Rinta & The Swing Therapists

Mike Rinta & The Swing Therapists work together regularly, 3 to 4 days a week, playing jazz from 1945 and earlier for seniors under the name The Jazz Therapists.  All the musicians are full-time and can boast playing with greats like Ray Charles, Taj Mahal, Bobby Hutcherson, and many others.  Mike Rinta is a featured bandleader at The Saloon, and he works as an arranger and featured trombonist for many swing bands.  Don’t miss their return to the Woodchopper’s Ball!

January 27, 2026
– Johnny Bones & The Palace of Jazz: 9:00-11:30pm
– After-Hours Jam: 11:30pm-1:30am

Johnny Bones & The Palace of Jazz

Johnny Bones, the regular sax player for the California Honeydrops, has put together his own all-star group to keep you dancing all night!  Strongly influenced by the early hot jazz bands, Johnny Bones and The Palace of Jazz combines the intimacy of smaller groups with the energy of powerful musicianship.  Whether playing standards or original material, this band will get the joint jumpin’!

The After-Hours Jam Session is now a regular monthly feature at the Woodchopper’s Ball, happening on the last Tuesday of the month, 11:30pm-1:30am, immediately following our regular Live Music Dance Party.  Spread the word!

    • Held in the lounge, with the bar staying open extra late, until 1:30am, and with space for dancing!  Take a nap Tuesday, and plan to work from home on Wednesday–this jam party will swing until late!
    • Included with admission to the Live Music Dance Party,  $20 ($5 after 11:00pm)!  Must arrive before doors close at 12:00am midnight.
    • Musicians of all levels welcome!  If you play an instrument or sing, here’s your chance to jam with other musicians.

February 3, 2026 – Heidi Evelyn’s Savoy Sweethearts

Heidi Evelyn’s Savoy Sweethearts

Heidi Evelyn’s Savoy Sweethearts features the top swing musicians in the Bay Area playing dance music from the 1930s and 1940s.  Expect to hear some brand new arrangements along with some familiar favorites and even some original tunes!  This is a very special band, playing tight harmonies and swinging riffs inspired by the best musicians of the swing era.