Greg Abate is an internationally acclaimed jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer, and educator whose career spans more than five decades. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, he performed with the Ray Charles Orchestra (1973–74) before joining the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra. Since then, he has toured extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and beyond, earning a reputation as one of today’s foremost bebop and hard bop stylists.

Ben Stolorow is a highly regarded Bay Area jazz pianist, composer, and educator whose lyrical style blends the influences of Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, Thelonious Monk, and the classical tradition. A graduate of UC Berkeley, he studied with renowned jazz pianists including Fred Hersch, Stanley Cowell, and David Hazeltine. Ben has performed throughout the United States and Japan with artists such as Craig Handy, Akira Tana, and Kenny Washington, and is recognized for his expressive touch, elegant improvisation, and deep commitment to the jazz tradition.

Essiet Essiet is an internationally acclaimed bassist known for his powerful groove, lyrical sound, and commanding presence. Born to Nigerian parents and raised in the United States, he has performed and recorded with an extraordinary list of jazz masters including Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard, Kenny Barron, Benny Golson, Cedar Walton, and Kurt Elling. As a leader, composer, and founder of the Intercontinental Bush Orchestra, Essiet continues to bridge African and American musical traditions with creativity and passion.

Sylvia Cuenca is one of today’s premier jazz drummers, celebrated for her dynamic swing, impeccable time, and sensitive accompaniment. A native of Northern California, she rose to international prominence performing and touring with jazz legends including Joe Henderson and Clark Terry. Based in New York, Cuenca has also worked with leading artists such as Gary Bartz, Lew Tabackin, Kenny Barron, and many others, earning a reputation as one of the most respected drummers in modern straight-ahead jazz.

Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.

Doors open 30 minutes before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.

The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.

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Please refrain from using your phone during performances, and if you use your camera or video, please disable the flash.

Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.

Thank you for your support!

Contact the host of The Greg Abate Quartet