Celebrating legendary Indianapolis trombonist J.J. Johnson. James Louis Johnson (1924-2001) made the trombone a high-profile instrument in bebop jazz, giving it stature in context with Dizzy Gillespie’s trumpet and Charlie Parker’s saxophone. Johnson’s career highlights include popular collaborative albums made with Danish trombonist Kai Winding, playing on sessions that became Miles Davis’ “Birth of the Cool” album and being honored as a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master in 1996. Johnson co-wrote the theme for 1973 film “Across 110th Street” with R&B vocalist Bobby Womack — later used to memorable effect in Quentin Tarantino film “Jackie Brown.”

The hottest Jazz Jam in Indianapolis happens right here every Monday night. Led by trumpet master Clifford Ratliff with piano, bass, & drums. Come down and sit in with the band or just sit and listen to the musical magic unfold.