CONCERTS IN THE COURTYARD
Concerts in the Courtyard RETURNS!
EVERY 1ST AND 3RD FRIDAY OF THE MONTH. 12 - 1 PM.
April 4 - November 7, 2025.
Concerts features local artists from all genres including jazz, opera, classical, world music and more. Concerts will take place in the courtyard, weather permitting. Otherwise the concert will take place in the Kiwanis Great Room.
Doors open at 11:45am. Earlier entry and seating is not available. Concerts begin at 12:00pm.
Seating is open and available on a first come first served basis. Reservations are not required.
Please no outside food. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Please note, entrance to Concerts in the Courtyard is FREE to attend,
but donations are welcome and greatly appreciated.
Questions?
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Email us at info@ljcommunitycenter.org
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Call us at (858) 459-0831
Flutes n' Bass with Holly n' Rob
Holly Hofmann and Rob Thorsen
Friday, August 15, 2025
12-1 PM.
Acclaimed flutist Holly Hofmann joins jazz bassist Rob Thorsen for an intimate set of jazz and Latin standards, uniquely arranged for flute and bass. The performance will also feature selections for two flutes—including Rob’s debut on the instrument—for a fresh and playful twist on classic tunes.
Bio
Holly Hofmann is widely regarded as one of the foremost jazz flutists in the world. Known for her bluesy phrasing and bebop virtuosity, she has performed and recorded with Ray Brown, Cedar Walton, Kenny Barron, and other jazz legends. With over a dozen acclaimed recordings and decades of curating jazz series in San Diego, she has helped redefine the flute as a powerful voice in modern jazz. Rob Thorsen is a respected bassist and bandleader in the San Diego jazz scene. For this concert, he takes on a new role—joining Hofmann on flute for select duets that blend tradition with bold innovation.
Spanish Classical and Flamenco Guitar Program
Fred Benedetti
Friday, September 5, 2025
12-1 PM.
Enjoy an evocative afternoon of Spanish music with renowned guitarist Fred Benedetti. Featuring works by Rodrigo, Albéniz, and Tárrega, this program blends the fiery rhythms of flamenco with the elegance of classical guitar.
Bio
Fred Benedetti is an internationally recognized guitarist who has performed with the San Diego Symphony, the Old Globe Theatre, and legendary artists like Luciano Pavarotti and Dave Brubeck. At age 26, he was one of only 12 guitarists selected to study with Maestro Andrés Segovia. He currently heads the guitar programs at Grossmont College and San Diego State University. His playing is celebrated for its depth, precision, and passion—making him a standout interpreter of Spanish classical and flamenco guitar.
Rebecca Jade Unplugged
Rebecca Jade
Friday, September 19, 2025
12-1 PM.
Join award-winning vocalist Rebecca Jade for an intimate, stripped-down performance featuring original songs and soulful storytelling. Experience her dynamic voice and heartfelt artistry in this special unplugged set.
Bio
Rebecca Jade is a celebrated singer/songwriter whose career spans nearly two decades and includes collaborations with Sheila E., Elton John, and Dave Koz. Known for her rich vocals and stylistic range, she’s earned multiple San Diego Music Awards and has topped Billboard charts with her solo work. Whether performing jazz, soul, or R&B, Rebecca brings authenticity and grace to every stage she graces.
SPIRIT WIND
Adrienne Nims and Spirit Wind
Friday, October 3, 2025
12-1 PM.
Let Adrienne Nims & Spirit Wind transport you on a musical journey filled with lush harmonies, global rhythms, and mystical melodies. Blending jazz, Latin, Asian, and R&B influences, this multi-instrumental ensemble offers a vibrant, cross-cultural experience through the sounds of flute, saxophone, and keyboard.
Bio
Adrienne Nims is a flutist and saxophonist known for her expressive and genre-blending sound. A seasoned performer and educator, she has opened for artists like Spyro Gyra and Boz Scaggs, and led her band Spirit Wind at venues including the Getty Museum and California Center for the Arts. Keyboardist Dan Bailey brings a rich background in jazz and musical theater, having conducted Broadway tours and performed at Carnegie Hall. Together, they create music that speaks to the soul and celebrates the spirit of global connection.
All Beatles Program on Ukulele, Baritone Guitar
Fred Benedetti
Friday, October 17, 2025
12-1 PM.
Enjoy a fresh take on the timeless music of The Beatles as Fred Benedetti performs beloved classics on classical guitar, baritone guitar, and ukulele. This all-Beatles program blends intricate musicianship with heartfelt nostalgia.
Bio
Fred Benedetti is an internationally acclaimed guitarist known for his versatility and expressive performances. A music professor at both Grossmont College and San Diego State University, he has performed worldwide and shared the stage with artists such as Luciano Pavarotti and Dave Brubeck. Whether playing flamenco, classical, or pop favorites, Fred brings nuance and warmth to every note.
Mikan Zlatkovich Duo
Mikan Zlatkovich and Ben Wanicur
Friday, November 7, 2025
12-1 PM.
Pianist Mikan Zlatkovich and bassist Ben Wanicur present a swinging set of jazz classics by Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver, McCoy Tyner, and more. This dynamic duo brings rich improvisation, deep groove, and timeless style to the courtyard.
Bio
Mikan Zlatkovich is an acclaimed pianist whose expressive style and improvisational mastery have earned him a loyal following both in Europe and the U.S. Born in Serbia, Mikan moved to New York in the 1990s to follow his passion for jazz. He has performed with legends like Chet Baker, Charles McPherson, and Red Holloway. Known for his ever-evolving musical voice, Mikan brings spontaneity and soul to every performance. Joining him is bassist Ben Wanicur, a versatile player with deep roots in straight-ahead jazz and creative collaboration.
