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nextStep: Grants 101

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 6 - 8pm

To-Do!: Speaker: Tamora Walls Hughes, The session covers the essential grant seeking and grant writing strategies and skills you will need to successfully submit competitive foundation proposals, and/or state and federal grant applications., Topics Include:, · Establishing Your Organization to Receive Grants, · Forming A Grant Writing Team, · Finding Funding Sources · Identifying Grant Writing Formats, · Developing a Program Design and Planning the Evaluation Process, · Planning the Budget

Price: $25

SummerDance: René Cardoza f/ Banda Manzanera

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: Banda Manzanera was formed in Sinaloa, the Mexican state that remains the cradle of banda, an upbeat music with a fast tempo and a heavy horn section. In its most traditional incarnation, banda sounds similar to polka, with a stomping two-note beat, a rollicking bass line of cleanly articulated tuba puffs, and a brisk melody delivered by brassy mariachi-style trumpets. Banda Manzanera now calls Chicago home and has been making a name for themselves with their energetic live performances.

Soleil's Take: The dance floor has gotten a little tight as this To-Do has grown in popularity, but it's still a fun time! SummerDance has expanded to 63rd Street Beach, Navy Pier, Athletic Field Park and Humboldt Park Boathouse. The view is beautiful at each of the locations, so get out there - and don't be afraid to try a new style of music and dance! More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010

Hot Summer Nights: Alma de Tango

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 6 - 8pm

To-Do!: Argentine Tango, Alma de Tango boasts an accomplished group of musicians who come to Chicago from various countries. This group of highly skilled musicians infuses sounds from Argentina and Uruguay into a magical night of rhythm.

Soleil's Take: View the complete Hot Summer Nights schedule!
Price: Free! (Parking, $20 per car)
Other Times To-Do It: Thursday Evenings, June 10 through September 2, 2010

The Soul Lounge Chicago f/ Tarrey Torae

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 6:30pm - 12:30am

To-Do!: Special Soul Music Tribute Event, Album Fundraiser & Performance!, Soul Lounge Summer Edition, f/ "Tarrey Torae," Hosted by Hip Hop's Favorite Female MC "Teefa," Live Band Performance w. "Zzaje", 2 Guest DJ's - DJ Lee Farmer of Soul Selectors & DJ Peace a Miami Based/Chicago Bred Spinner! Music, Art, Networking, Wine & Spirits, Good People & Anticipated Unforgettable Moments! Featuring:, * Tarrey Torae - Chicago's Soul Singer, Song Writer, Actress & 2X Grammy Certified, * Hosted By: Hip Hop's Favorite Lady MC "Teefa", * Also Featuring: The Band - Zzaje, * DJ Lee Farmer of the Soul Selectors, * DJ Peace, Miami Based/Chicago Bred, * Special Dance Performance from Lynna C. Hollis of the Chicago Contemporary Dance Theatre!, * Live Band, DJ, Drinks & Food

Price: $20

Concerts in the Parks: Ginny Morin & Vitamin & Picante

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 6:30 - 8:30pm

To-Do!: Enjoy some latin jazz, swing and American songbook tunes.

Soleil's Take: View more Concertsin the Parks dates, but visit the Chicago Park District website for dates in a park near you!
Miscellaneous Info: From salsa and reggae, to gospel, jazz and classical, the Park District's Concerts in the Parks series offers Chicago families a fun, affordable way to spend an evening in their own community., Throughout the year, indoor concerts are held in parks across the city. In the summer, bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy the outdoor concerts. Regardless of the time of year, prepare to dance and sway the night away at a concert in the parks.
Price: Free!

Music Without Borders - Dobet Gnahore with Victor Démé

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 6:30 - 9pm

To-Do!: Dobet Gnahoré, a singer, dancer and percussionist from the Ivory Coast, inherited the force of the "Bété" tradition from her father, Boni Gnahoré, a master percussionist who plays with the Abidjan-based Ki-Yi Mbock Company, directed by Werewere Liking. It was within this Ivory Coast-based company that Dobet met French guitarist Colin Laroche de Féline, who went there to immerse himself in African melodies and rhythms, after being introduced to them by Toroma Sika in France., After a 30-year career in Burkina Faso, the Mandingo singer finally releases his first album. At 46, Démé has recorded there a unique mosaic of folk blues melodies, intimate Mandingo ballads, and Latin influences, salsa and flamenco. This eponymous album presents all the rich heritage of Démé's repertoire to the public.

Soleil's Take: View the entire Music Without Borders series!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, June 3 - July 22, 2010

Little Black Dress Party

Thursday, July 8, 2010, 7 - 10pm

To-Do!: Attention Fashionistas: Throw on that little black dress and join us for a night of cocktails, fashion & fun as we heat up Casey Moran's rooftop to benefit the Chicago Fashion Foundation. Prizes to be given away to those with the hottest LBD. Who knew giving back could be so sexy?

Price: $25; $20 w/ LBD

20/20 Tasting

Friday, July 9, 2010, 6 - 9pm

To-Do!: Taste 20 wines for $20. Live music by K.T. starts at 8pm. We're B.Y.O. F. everyday, so bring your own food and enjoy.

Price: $20
Venue Info: Cozy. That's how I'd describe WineStyles in the South Loop. While fashioned like an old world wine cellar, with it's warm, inviting feel, it's almost like stepping into someone's kitchen! In addition to wine, shop for various wine-related accessories - and stay a while!

SummerDance: Monica Vachlon & Louie Stallone f/ Red Stick Ramblers

Friday, July 9, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: "We live pretty fast and hard," confesses Red Stick Ramblers fiddler and vocalist Linzay Young. "We live life to its fullest. Then we pour that into our songwriting and our music, and take it with us wherever we go." Hard driving, witty, eclectic, and honest, the music of the Red Stick Ramblers is inseparable from their way of life and the rich Louisiana culture that first inspired them. Their fifth album, My Suitcase Is Always Packed, is as much a travelogue as a sound recording, complete with audio snapshots of relentless all-night dances, laid back campfire sessions, dusty honky-tonks, and raucous family reunions. It is the fullest flowering so far of the Ramblers' unique hybrid of Cajun, country, stringband, and swing influences - a sound marked by a daring willingness to experiment with mixing different elements, rather than simply progress through a laundry list of genres from song to song.

Soleil's Take:  More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010

2nd Friday Gallery Walk Around f/ Abstract Heat: Art Intensified

Friday, July 9, 2010, 6 - 10pm

To-Do!: The Chicago Arts District hosts "2nd FRIDAYS Gallery Night", the monthly opening receptions at the galleries and artists' studios centered around South Halsted and 18th Streets in Chicago. The receptions begin at 6:00pm and run until 10:00pm., Join the 30 creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at South Halsted and 18th Streets, as they showcase an exciting display of art and artists from Chicago and beyond. This unique art community opens its doors, free of charge, and lets you get up close and personal with the art and artists. Pick up a map at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted and explore the city's most vibrant art community, the Chicago Arts District, where people meet ART!
Soleil's Take: This To-Do is definitely worth checking out - I thoroughly enjoyed it! In addition to a wide range of art and medium, you'll find different vibes goin' on at the many, varied galleries - but there's some sort of party at every stop. You may find a special deal on the application of eyelash extensions, accessories, provocative clothing, a DJ rockin' old school beats so hard that the art clings to the walls for dear life, or perhaps a quiet, ambient vibe. There's something for everyone, so expect to see a great diversity of age and race!, This month, be sure to check out Abstract Heat: Art Intensified. Jennifer says: Come have a cocktail and enjoy our July exhibit: "Abstract Heat: Art Intensified." This artistic display introduces inspiring abstract work from two new artists that I am excited to bring to the Phoenix Family: Christopher Jarred (Chicago), and Amy Pryor (Newport Beach, CA). Come meet the local artists, and enjoy the opportunity to experience extraordinary people and extraordinary work. Thanks in advance for your support, and see you Friday!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: 2nd Fridays
Image Credit: Jennifer Bridgeforth

Friday Night Out: Taking Back Our Community Initiative

Friday, July 9, 2010, 6 - 8pm

To-Do!: The BARCC organization will target the 43rd Street Business Corridor as a starting place in addressing "quality of life issues": safety, security and the commercial desert in Bronzeville. Fridays, beginning in June 2010, we will engage in "Positive Loitering" at targeted locations on 43rd Street for a FRIDAY NIGHT OUT: TAKING BACK OUR COMMUNITY INITIATIVE.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Fridays

Legends Of The Game Concert

Friday, July 9, 2010, 7:30 - 11:30pm

To-Do!: Starring, MC Lyte - "Lyte as rock", Chubb Rock - "Treat em right", Naughty by Nature - "O.P.P." Also Starring one of the legendary founders of hip hop music Kurtis Blow

Price: $35.00 - $65.00

Julien Thorn

Friday, July 9, 2010, 8 - 11:30pm

To-Do!: Jules Esquire and "The Band With No Name," features Opra Thomas, Robi Smith, Sean Jackson and Markeyta Sconiers. Also playing, Philenious RX and The Station.

Price: $5

A Grand Dance/Steppers Set, Live Comedy & CD Release Party f/ Carlos Cannon

Friday, July 9, 2010, 8pm - 1am

To-Do!: Hosted By: The world's funniest impersonating comedian, Michael McDaniel of BET/Comic View, Musical Host: Stepper's DJ Mellow Khris Carlos Cannon Band performing live celebrating the release of his third CD,"Steppin' Up The Game.", * 8:00pm with comedian Michael McDaniel, * 8:30pm - The Carlos Cannon Band Performs, * 9:15pm 1:00am - The Grand Dance / Steppers Set, SO, if you're in the mood for an Evening of Classical Elegance, some high energy music, laughing and dancing, come check out this great event! You won't be disappointed!!

Price: $25; VIP, $45 - includes VIP room, CD album, champagne toast & poster.

Chris Denman Band

Friday, July 9, 2010, 8pm - 2am
Saturday, July 10, 2010, 10pm -4am

To-Do!: Chris (known to many as simply "Denman") is a certified music educator by trade, but has been performing in jazz and rock bands (as well as classical ensembles) for nearly two decades. Throughout high school, Chris was trained by local virtuoso, Dennis Pirani, as well as having the privilege of working under Walt Skocz and the late Bob Cross. Chris has traveled all over the country as well as the Caribbean to perform both jazz and classical concerts with world renowned performers.

Price: $5
Other Times To-Do It: Friday and Saturday

Cocktails & Clay

Friday, July 9, 2010, 8pm - 12am

To-Do!: Looking for something different [To-Do] on a Friday night? Get your hands dirty in the Ceramics Studio, enjoy drink specials from the cash bar, explore the exhibitions and dance all night in the Main Gallery.

Soleil's Take: What a cute idea!!! And how cool that they're keeping the gallery open 'til midnight - you gotta check this one out! Specialty cocktails by Chant in Hyde Park.

Price: Free! (Donations Suggested)
Other Times To-Do It: Second Fridays

Juan De Marcos & The Afro Cuban All Stars

Friday, July 9, 2010, 8:30pm - 2am

To-Do!: The man behind the world renowned Buena Vista Social Club and Sierra Maestra, Cuban band leader, producer, and gifted visionary Juan de Marcos, has gathered the most remarkable expatriate Cuban musicians from around the world to present a new version of the Afro-Cuban All Stars that will tour internationally and perform in Chicago.

Miscellaneous Info: Delicious Cuban Food Available for purchase
Advance: $30
Price: $40

Doin' It Old Skool!!!

Friday, July 9, 2010, 9pm - 2am

To-Do!: Dolce Vida presents a Kick Off for the Chosen Few Picnic, featuring the best in Old School, House & Discoby (Mendel Alumni) DJ Nick Nonstop & Special Guest DJ Phat Mike spinning on 1200 turntables!!!

Price: Free!

House Music Reunion Picnic

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 8am - 9pm

To-Do!: Music by: The Legendary Chosen Few DJs, Jesse Saunders, Wayne Williams, Alan King, Terry Hunter, Tony Hatchett, Andre Hatchett, Plus special Guest DJs: TBA This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Actions pulldown menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do!

Soleil's Take: This To-Do is like a reunion (high school, family, friends). Die hard House fans (and the not-so-die-hard who really come to people-watch/mac) gather for an afternoon of going nuts when they hear their "cut." DJs do their thang for hours and plenty of dancing goes on in the dance "floor" area. While it's kinda underground (only in terms of an advertising presence), plenty of people know about it! Note that this year, the party has moved from the Museum of Science and Industry to the South Shore Cultural Center. You'll find folks in tents, on blankets and on lawn chairs - and plenty of BBQing! Popular, but not overcrowded, you'll find this a cool way to enjoy a Chicago summer day-turned-to-evening!
Price: $5-10

Chicago Folk and Roots Festival

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 12:00:00 PM

Welles Park
Montrose and Sunnyside (along Lincoln Ave.)
Chicago, IL 60625  

To-Do!: The festival always features an eclectic lineup, and this year is no exception. Performers on the main stage this year include Hoyle Brothers, Occidental Brothers Dance Band International, Budos Band, Sanctified Grumblers, and Andreas Kapsalis & Goran Ivanovic Guitar Duo. (The full line up is behind the jump.), In addition to the main stage, there are stages featuring music by the wildly talented staff of the Old Town School of Folk Music, as well as shows from student ensembles. There's also a kid's tent, with dance classes, rhythm circles, and a little something called "Rockabilly for Kids" - I think I've got to see that. Dance classes for adults will also be conducted throughout the weekend, with styles including traditional African, Tango, Bollywood, Folk, and Hip-Hop.

Soleil's Take: I think of this one as just a cool l'il north-side hippie fest. Expect a family- and dog-friendly crowd. As with the performances at the Old Town School, expect a nicely diverse group of performers.
Price: Free! ($5-10 Suggested Donation)
Other Times To-Do It: July 10-11, 2010

Michelle Alexander: "The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness"

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 3:30 - 5:30pm

To-Do!: Michelle Alexander is a longtime civil rights advocate and litigator. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness is her first book. Legal scholar Alexander argues that we have not ended racial caste in America; we have merely redesigned it. Jim Crow and legal racial segregation has been replaced by mass incarceration as a system of social control. Book signing following lecture.

Price: Free!

SummerDance: Buddy Bates and Rebecca Unger f/ Jeffrey Broussard & The Creole Cowboys

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: Jeffery Broussard was a leading member in Zydeco Force, an influential band at the forefront of the nouveau zydeco movement. His accordion and vocals defined this new style of Creole music, incorporating the soulful sounds of R&B into contemporary zydeco music and dance. The son of esteemed accordionist Delton Broussard, young Jeffery began his musical journey on the drums in his father's legendary band, the Lawtell Playboys, who were themselves innovators, adding some R&B and a funkiness to this traditional roots music. During this time, Jeffery was exposed to some of the great Creole fiddle players, including the king of the zydeco fiddle, Calvin Carrière. He has retained those precious melodies and songs he heard at home, at social gatherings and on the bandstand. And with the creation of the Creole Cowboys, and as one of Louisiana's newest Creole fiddle players, he captures the essence of this rich musical heritage.

Soleil's Take:  More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010

Eric Benet

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 7 - 11pm

To-Do!: Azizah Lisa opens. View the complete Country Club Hills Theater schedule!

Miscellaneous Info: Section B $75, Sections A,C,D $65, Stadium(E&F)$55, Lawn $50, Pavilion $25
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays, June 5- August 28
Venue Info: I haven't been out to CCHT yet (it is, afterall, in a suburb), but a few questions come immediately to mind: (1) $45-65 is a lot of loot to sit on the lawn - is that grass padded or sumthin'? (2) No outside concessions?!?! That kinda takes the "pic" (i.e., your choice) out of picnic-ing, doesn't it? Will I get out there and find $6 hotdogs and a $17 glass of white zinfandel and a $3 can of RC Cola? (3) How come Ravinia is sooooo much cheaper and lets you bring your own stuff? (4) You can't bring your own chair - you must rent one there? Come on, now - we must be up to $75 already - just to be on the lawn!

Arab-issh Stand-Up Comedy

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 7:30 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: Arab-issh and ME Moda Presents: Arab-issh [\'ar əb i-ssh\ n, adj. v, adverb] A night to laugh with Arab comics telling jokes., Arab/American Stand-Up Comedy Show. One night only - don't miss out!!

Price: $25

Aida (Opening Night)

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 8 - 10:30pm

To-Do!: Directed by Scott Ferguson, Music Direction by Robert Ollis and Jimmy Morehead, Choreography by Gary Abbott and Kevin Iega Jeff of Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, Elton John & Tim Rice's Aidatells the story of a high-ranking Egyptian soldier, engaged to the Pharaoh's daughter and next in line for the throne, who falls in love with the Nubian slave Aida. When he discovers that she is the daughter of the King of Nubia, each is forced to choose between love for country and love for each other. With a driving pop-rock score by Elton John, the story challenges audiences to consider the question: "What would you sacrifice for eternal love?", In its first Chicago production since the national tour, Bailiwick Chicago's newly envisioned production features stunning choreography by the modern dance company Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, a six-piece band, and a cast of 20 talented actors, singers, and dancers.

Price: $25-35
Other Times To-Do It: July 1 - August 1, 2010
Image Credit: www.popiostumpf.com

Opposition Party & Soulphonetics

Saturday, July 10, 2010, 8pm - 12am

To-Do!: An evening of Afrobeat, Jazz, Dub, Baile & Funk. The Opposition Party is a collective of Chicago music professionals and educators, centered around performance of African music, and particularly the collaboration and cross-pollination across the Atlantic with Jamaican reggae and dub, and with American funk and jazz. Heavy grooves and high-energy rhythms come alive in a catalog that features music from artists like Ethiopiques, Fela Kuti, Tony Allen, Thomas Mapfumo, Jackie Mittoo, and OP originals that draw from all of it., Get ready to hear Nigerian Afrobeat to Zimbabwean Chimurenga to Jamaican Reggae and Dub, to Ethiopian Jazz and American Funk. It is all in the name of opening eyes and ears to grooves from around the world. OP originals draw from all these inspirations. In this band there are teachers, professional musicians, and activists. This project has a long history in Chicago, dedicated to music appreciation and preservation. This group is ready to launch their musical campaign in the community and spread cultural consciousness.

Soleil's Take: Interesting, however, that nobody in this group is of color . . .
Advance: $12
Price: $15

Ice Cream Social

Sunday, July 11, 2010, 2 - 5pm

To-Do!: The Annual Ice Cream Social is for children of all ages and their families to instill more family values and socialization within the Chicagoland community. Your assistance will be helping the RH School of Performing Arts in their dreams to participate in the Bud Billiken Parade in Chicago, IL. Please encourage our children to be in the ARTS! and not on the streets. All activities are only $1 each.

Price: $5

SankofaSpirit Movies with a Mission: New Muslim Cool

Sunday, July 11, 2010, 2 - 4pm

To-Do!: Puerto Rican American rapper Hamza Perez ended his life as a drug dealer 12 years ago, and started down a new path as a young Muslim. Now he's moved to Pittsburgh's tough North Side to start a new religious community, rebuild his shattered family, and take his message of faith to other young people through his uncompromising music as part of the hip-hop duo M-Team., New Muslim Cool takes viewers on Hamza's ride through the streets, projects and jail cells of urban America, following his spiritual journey to some surprising places.

Price: Free!

SummerDance: BallroomChicago f/ John Burnett Orchestra

Sunday, July 11, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: The John Burnett Orchestra specializes in '40s-style big band swing - keeping alive the sounds of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Count Basie and others. Each musician is highly professional and most have played with many of the top American big bands such as the Miller, Herman and Buddy Rich Bands. In addition to swing music the orchestra performs current big band jazz charts and many vocal ballads such as those of Frank Sinatra, Joe Williams, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn.

Soleil's Take:  More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010

Sunday Jazz, f/ Jarrard Harris Quartet

Sunday, July 11, 2010, 8 - 11:30pm

To-Do!: Jarrad Harris Saxophonist/educator and Louisville Kentucky native Jarrard Harris has been performing and teaching in Chicago since 1998. He holds a Bachelors in Music and a Masters in Jazz Studies. In addition to his own quartet Jarrard performs with the Chicago Jazz Ensemble., Jarrard Harris began playing the clarinet in 4th grade in order to get out of class. He displayed a natural talent for music that eventually led him to pick up the saxophone in Jr. High school. He was turned on to jazz by his first saxophone teacher Mike Tracey and Bill Donaldson his first music instructor.

Price: $10; Students, $5
Other Times To-Do It: Sundays

Movies in the Parks: Tyler Perry's I Can Do Bad All By Myself

Monday, July 12, 2010, 8:30 - 10:30pm

To-Do!: When Madea, America's favorite pistol-packing grandma, catches sixteen-year-old Jennifer and her two younger brothers looting her home, she decides to take matters into her own hands and delivers the young delinquents to the only relative they have: their aunt April. A heavy-drinking nightclub singer who lives off of Raymond, her married boyfriend, April wants nothing to do with the kids. But her attitude begins to change when Sandino, a handsome Mexican immigrant looking for work, moves into April's basement room. Making amends for his own troubled past, Sandino challenges April to open her heart. And April soon realizes she must make the biggest choice of her life: between her old ways with Raymond and the new possibilities of family, faith... and even true love.

Soleil's Take: Movies in the Park ("MIP") is a low-key, family-friendly alternative to the Outdoor Film Festival (which, this year, appears to have fallen victim to budget cuts). At MIP, you'll find plenty of room to spread out and barbeque. Amble on in at your leisure and you'll still find room to enjoy the flick. Bring the kids, bring the dog and enjoy the summer evening! I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010

Tuesdays at the Terrace: Mwata Bowden

Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 5:30 - 8pm

To-Do!: During the past several years, Mwata Bowden has gone beyond the stage of discovery into a genuine mastery. In addition to the obvious technical virtuosity he commands on baritone saxophone and clarinet, he has been able to put together ensembles that develop his ideas on a somewhat larger scale. In his Sound Spectrum and Tri-Tone ensembles, for instance, he has presented long and complex compositions that nevertheless prove accessible to the uninitiated listener., Above all, though the AACM remains the constant in his musical life. Bowden is presently Chairman of the AACM. "It's extremely important to the cultural community, because otherwise this information is lost, and the next generation doesn't have the advantages they need. The AACM preserves that information, and so it protects our future".

Soleil's Take: View the complete Tuesdays On the Terrace schedule!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 1 - September 28, 2010

nextStep: How to Start a Not-For-Profit Business Part I

Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 6 - 8pm

To-Do!: Speaker: Otis Monroe, Learn how to prepare the Articles of Incorporation to Create an Illinois Not for Profit business. Review the Articles of Incorporation Form from the Secretary of State Learn the required legal language for Incorporating as a Not for Profit Learn about the number of Directors and roles and responsibilities of Directors under Illinois Law Learn to Create Bylaws and Organizational Process of Operating

Price: $25

Music On the Esplanade: Fatum Jazz Quintet

Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 6 - 8pm

To-Do!: Chicago's own Fatum brothers are at it again, this time with their all-star quintet. John (drums) and Michael (trumpet) visit the Chicago Botanic Garden this summer after five months in Italy to perform with Chicago's freshest and most promising jazz talents. Celebrated in the community for their swingin' music and exceptional stage presence with the Fatum Brothers' Jazz Band, the Fatum brothers will be presenting a concert of originals and jazz classics with Downbeat award-winning Adam Kromelow on keyboards, Chicago's finest Rajiv Orozco on alto sax, and Chicago's best-kept secret, Dan Chmielinski, on bass. They can't wait to swing with you!

Soleil's Take: View the complete Music On the Esplanade schedule!
Price: Free! (Parking, $20 per car)
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays, June 8 - August 31, 2010

Concerts in the Parks: Foster meets Brooks Big Band

Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 6:30 - 8:30pm

To-Do!: The Foster Meets Brooks Big Band is a 17-piece big band composed of talented high school and college jazz musicians from around the Chicago and Midwest area . These musicians have performed in and are affiliated with a number of accredited jazz programs in the country, including Jazz Bands of America, Illinois Music Educators' Association All-State Jazz Festival, Birch Creek Music Performance Center (Door County, Wisconsin), Merit School of Music jazz bands, the Jazz Links student council of the Jazz Institute of Chicago, and the Midwest Young Artists jazz program (and summer tours). Under the direction of city-renowned high school tenor saxophonist John Foster-Brooks, the FMB big band rehearses during the summer and early winter months, and perform throughout the year.

Soleil's Take: View more Concerts in the Parks dates, but visit the Chicago Park District website for dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!

Movies in the Parks: Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 8:30 - 10:30pm

To-Do!: The film follows high school senior Ferris Bueller, who decides to skip school and spend the day in downtown Chicago. Accompanied by his girlfriend Sloane Peterson and his best friend Cameron Frye, he creatively avoids his school's Dean of Students Edward Rooney, his resentful sister Jeanie, and his parents. During the film, Broderick occasionally speaks to the camera to explain to the audience his character's techniques and thoughts.

Soleil's Take: Movies in the Park ("MIP") is a low-key, family-friendly alternative to the Outdoor Film Festival (which, this year, appears to have fallen victim to budget cuts). At MIP, you'll find plenty of room to spread out and barbeque. Amble on in at your leisure and you'll still find room to enjoy the flick. Bring the kids, bring the dog and enjoy the summer evening! I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010

Jazzin' at the Shedd - Tim Fitzgerald Quartet

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 5 - 10pm

To-Do!: The Tim Fitzgerald Quartet mixes straight-ahead jazz, funk and soul music. Keyboardist Tom Vaitsas, drummer Ben Johnson and vocalist Sarah Marie Young join them as they perform this summer in support of his new book, 625 Alive

Soleil's Take: View the entire Jazzin' at the Shedd schedule!
Price: $12; $10, Children  
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays, June 23 - September 1, 2010

Passport to Black Paris: A Bastille Day Celebration

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 6 - 8pm

To-Do!: Kiratiana's Travel Guide to Black Paris offers a rare glimpse into the thriving African, African American and Caribbean culture of Paris. Wine Tasting provided by Belleruche Wines.

Price: Free!

SummerDance: Majestic Gents f/ The Nu Blu Band

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: The NuBlu Band is an energetic 6-9 piece dance/funk/pop & R&B group that has performed for many private, corporate, and festive events. Affordably priced and easy to accommodate, the NuBlu Band prides itself on delivering tailor-made shows to fit its prospective audience, bringing its highest level of showmanship, and professionalism for guaranteed customer satisfaction at each event. It's not unusual to hear the band jump from the 60's, to the 70's to the 80's to Blues or to today's current sounds. And lets not forget about Motown!

Soleil's Take:  More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010

SummerDance: Miguel Mendez f/ Orquesta Con Son

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm

To-Do!: Tribute to Classic Salseras, Orquesta Con Son is the newest creation of Chicago's legendary musical director Jose Valdes. The orchestra features singer Sonia Perez, as she sings the repertoire of famous ladies in Tropical music like Celia Cruz and many others. The band plays traditional Latin rhythms like SALSA, Mambo, Merengue, Bachata & Cha Cha Cha.

Soleil's Take:  More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010

Summer Breeze - Music In E Minor: Ray Silkman

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 6 - 9pm

To-Do!: He has been touted "the best saxman in the business", The Passion, The Energy, and of course the sound of Ray Silkman's soul being poured through his sax is hypnotic to say the least. Silkman has performed to standing room only concerts for his thousands of fans at Detroit Opera House, The Elkhart Jazz Festival, Grand Rapids Jazz and Blues Festival, Taste of Chicago, The Vic Theater Chicago, The Park West Theater Chicago, The United Center, Donald E Stephens Convention Center, Milwaukee's Marcus Amphitheater, Poplar Creek Amphitheater, Chicago's Field Museum, and countless private and public events throughout the country.

Soleil's Take: At the Summer Breeze series, you can expect not only great music, but also a mature crowd at an age range of about 30-55. No lines around the block, no kids, no fights - no charge! Enjoy the music both in and outdoors at this venue. Read more at Sun Spots: Chillin' at Summer Breeze!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays

Amazing Jazz Duets: Paulinho Garcia f/ Grazyna Auguscik

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 7 - 10pm

To-Do!: Paulinho Garcia had his first contact with music very early in life, around 9 years old. In his teens he played first the drums and then moved to the bass, which became his main instrument until 1991 when he then switch to the guitar. Being a self taught musician Paulinho started his bassist career when an amateur band needed a bass player at the last minute and Paulinho took the instrument. [more]

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays

World Music Wednesdays: Boy Thai Band

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 8:30 - 11pm

To-Do!: Boy Thai Band is a group that has pioneered the fusion of the traditional and modern in contemporary Thai music. First formed in 1995, the band incorporates the Ranat or Thai xylophone, flute, and Thai percussion with the western style drums, guitar, bass and percussion of modern bands. The Thai Boy Band has revolutionized traditional Thai music and made it appealing and accessible to the younger generation.

Price: $5, Suggested Donation