Spotlight

The Athenaeum hosts a special concert on June 29, with a performance featuring two acclaimed pianists, Mike Wofford (above) and Josh Nelson. The occasion is a celebration of Athenaeum executive director Erika Torri, who is retiring from the library after 33 years.

Wofford was amongst the artists who performed at the first concerts Torri helmed as part of the jazz series in 1989, making him the perfect artist to close out her time at the Athenaeum. The word “legend” is overused these days but it certainly applies to Wofford, who has worked with a who’s who of jazz greats, including Sarah Vaughn and Ella Fitzgerald, as well as lent a hand to numerous pop sessions of note, including recording with John Lennon. This concert may be tinged with a bit of sadness as Torri moves on, but it’s a wonderful opportunity to say thanks to someone who has greatly affected San Diego’s music and arts community.

Mike Wofford and Josh Nelson – A Tribute to Erika Torri: Wednesday, June 29 at Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, 1008 Wall St. $40. 7:30 p.m. ljathenaeum.org.

Recommended

On June 24 at Dizzy’s one of San Diego’s finest guitarists, Peter Sprague, will perform a musical tribute to jazz guitarist Pat Metheny, celebrating the release of two new albums, the aptly titled “Volume 1 and 2 of Peter Sprague Plays Pat Metheny.” Backed by an all-star ensemble that includes singers Leonard Patton and Rebecca Jade on vocals, pianist John Opferkuch, bassist Mack Leighton and drummer Duncan Moore, Sprague transforms Metheny’s instrumentals, adding lyrics by Randy Phillips, wringing even more melody out of classics such as 1981’s “Are You Going With Me.” Metheny and Sprague fans will find both albums essential additions to their collections, but this opportunity to hear them played live shouldn’t be missed.

Sprague Spotlights Metheny: Friday, June 24 at Dizzy’s at Arias Hall, 1717 Morena Blvd. 8 p.m. $25. dizzysjazz.com.

The Fourth Friday Jazz Series continues on June 24 with a performance from flutist Lori Bell, featuring pianist Josh Nelson, bassist Rob Thorsen, and drummer Tyler Kreutel. The flute doesn’t get much credit as a lead instrument but in Bell’s capable hands you’ll be impressed by her technique and way with a melody. Her most recent album is a collection of James Taylor songs, but for her music’s full force effect, check out Bell’s well-reviewed album, “Brooklyn Dreaming,” sure to be a major part of the night’s setlist.

Lori Bell: Friday, June 24, at the La Jolla Community Center, 6811 La Jolla Blvd. 7 p.m. $22-$30. All ages. ljcommunitycenter.org.

In a sea of tributes to the Beatles, the Fab Four are special. Appearing at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay on June 25, the band performs a musical history of the Beatles, complete with costume changes and British accents. This band of musicians is just about as close as you are going to get to the real deal, getting it pretty close on the look and spot on with the sound. Best of all, they not only play the hits, but the Fab Four also includes deep cuts, such as “The Night Before” from “Help!” and “Because” from “Abbey Road,” the latter featuring stunning harmony vocals few other combos would even attempt. With a catalog featuring some of the best songs ever written, fans can rest assured there will be plenty of sing-a-long moments leading up to set closer “Hey Jude.”

The Fab Four: Saturday, June 25 at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island. 8 p.m. $50. humphreysconcerts.com.

In advance of her upcoming new album, Rebecca Jade performs at Humphrey’s Backstage Live on June 26. An amazing vocalist, Jade’s blend of jazz, soul, and R&B has made her a multiple San Diego Music Awards winner, with growing acclaim worldwide. Recent career highlights include backing Elton John on the Grammys (2020), a guest appearance this year in Amsterdam as part of the Dave Koz cruise, and winning 2022 SDMA’s for “Best R&B, Funk or Soul Song,” as well as “Best Video,” for her song “What’s It Gonna Be.” Jade is an inspired performer, with vocals matched by a terrific stage presence. If you are new to Jade’s music, Humphrey’s intimate venue is the perfect place for novices to watch Jade make magic.

Rebecca Jade: Sunday, June 26 at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Dr., Shelter Island. 6 p.m. humphreysbackstagelive.com.

The Queen of Boogie Woogie, Sue Palmer, brings her Motel Swing Orchestra to Tio Leo’s on July 5. Palmer’s most recent release, “Movin’ Along,” took home the award for “Best Local Recording” at the 2022 SDMA’s, an excellent example of her R&B roots. This is a band meant to fill dance floors, with a mix of top-notch originals such as the title track, a piano-driven stroller, and covers such as Nina Simone’s bluesy, sultry “Do I Move You.” Palmer has been an integral part of San Diego’s music community for over four decades, if you haven’t caught a set yet, make it a priority. You won’t be disappointed.

Sue Palmer and Her Motel Swing Orchestra: Tuesday, July 5 at Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St. 7 p.m. 21 and up. $12. tioleos.com.