Music

Grab a Horn and Let Loose at the Lakely's Monday Night Jazz Sessions

Emily Kinzel, photos by Andrea Paulseth |

Have an itch for a swinging beat, twinkling keys, loopy woodwinds, and smooth bass? You’re in luck! Monday Night Jazz Sessions hosted by the UW-Eau Claire jazz faculty are back, providing the Valley an excellent weekly dose of live local jazz. The relaunch began at The Lakely (516 Galloway St.) on Monday, Sept. 18 from 7-10pm, and continues weekly through the fall. This specific music series focuses on the rawness of an in-the-moment jam session, evoking the hardiness of improvisation and collaboration. Hosts Michael Shults and Jeremy Boettcher encourage their attendees to actively participate by calling out a number, bringing their own instruments, and sitting in after the local jazz crew. The professionals consist of UWEC faculty and students, “who have played some of the country’s premier jazz venues,” according to Shults and Boettcher. All who attend are invited to play no matter the experience level! So grab your horn and join your fellow jazz cats every Monday at The Lakely.