Jazz Streams features an accomplished lineup of New England jazz veterans, including trombonist Rich Ardizzone, a classically trained performer experienced in Latin jazz, big bands, and diverse ensembles; guitarist Rich Falco, a seasoned performer, educator, and jazz historian with international tours, concert productions, and numerous accolades; bassist Jerry Wilfong, an active Boston-area musician who has collaborated widely and recorded extensively; and drummer Bill MacGillivray, a longtime Worcester music community fixture known for his work in jazz, rock, and blues as well as his dedication to music education.
Brown Bag Concert Series
The Brown Bag Concerts are produced by 90.5 WICN & Mechanics Hall.
Brown Bag Fall 2025 Concert Series
Wednesdays at Noon, November 12th, 19th, December 3rd & 10th
Free Admission
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester, MA, 01608; 508-752-5608
Broadcast live on WICN 90.5 FM and streaming at wicn.org
The Brown Bag Concert Series, presented by Mechanics Hall and 90.5 FM WICN, has been a beloved tradition in Worcester since 1983. These free, hour-long concerts by acclaimed regional and national performers take place in the Great Hall on select Wednesdays from noon to 1 pm.
Bring your own “brown bag” lunch, or enjoy light concessions available for purchase, and take in a wonderful performance in one of America’s great concert halls. Cabaret-style seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Doors open at 11:30 am | Show 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Admission: Free | All Ages | Open to the Public
Admission: Free | All Ages | Open to the Public
Whenever possible, Brown Bag Concerts are broadcast live on WICN 90.5 FM and streamed at WICN.org.
November 12
THE DAN MORETTI QUARTET
With a career spanning decades, Moretti has performed with legends like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Robert Plant. Now, he brings that same talent to Mechanics Hall for an unforgettable midday escape. Whether you’re a long-time jazz fan or new to the genre, this concert promises something special for everyone.
November 19
2SLICK
The captivating sound of trombones takes center stage in this extraordinary jazz ensemble. Featuring the talents of trombonists Steve Piermarini and Wayne Branco, their repertoire showcases the timeless compositions of jazz legends JJ Johnson and Kai Winding, whose innovative trombone duets revolutionized the genre
December 10
U.S. Navy Band Northeast with New England Conservatory Symphonic Winds and Chamber Singers
Established in 1974 at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island, Navy Band Northeast is one of 11 official U.S. Navy bands worldwide. Its ensembles—including the Pops Ensemble, Rhode Island Sound, Jack Tar Brass Band, Trident Brass, and Crosswinds Woodwind Quintet—perform a wide range of music from patriotic and classical works to big band and top-40 hits.
Brown Bag Concert Series Sponsors
BROWN BAG ARCHIVE
WPI (Worcester Polytechnic Institute) has recognized the historical significance of the 30+ years of the Brown Bag Concert Series. WPI has documented the series history in its Jazz History Database. The database includes information from 1989 – 2008.
“Studio 3”, a half-hour music and interview television program featuring some of the best jazz groups in New England and beyond, was taped between 1993 and 2000 before live audiences in the studios of WGMC-TV3 or on location, including Brown Bag concerts at Mechanics Hall. All shows were produced and hosted by jazz vocalist Toni Ballard, with production support from Greater Media Cable, and aired from 1993 to 2003 on WGMC-TV3. The WPI Jazz History Database includes Studio 3 videos.
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2025
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2024
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2024
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2023
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2022
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2022
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2020
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2019
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2018
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2018
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2017
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2017
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2016
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2016
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2015
Brown Bag Concert Series Spring 2015
Brown Bag Concert Series Fall 2014
Brown Bag Concert Series: Spring 2014
Brown Bag Concert Series: Fall 2013
Brown Bag Concert Series: Spring 2013
Brown Bag Concert Series: Fall 2012
Brown Bag Concert Series: Spring 2012