From left are Alan Ferber, Nick Weiser, Carmen Intorre and Virginia McDonald

Since 2018, the Fredonia Jazz Society has brought the joy of live jazz to Western New York, showcasing top-tier local, regional, and internationally acclaimed musicians. That tradition continues this fall as FJS launches its 2025-26 season on Thursday, Oct. 9. Audiences can expect fresh performers, new leadership, and exciting programming–all while upholding the same standard of excellence that has defined past seasons.

The season opens that evening with the first Jazz at Domus Fare event of the year, featuring three-time GRAMMY-nominated trombonist, composer, and bandleader Alan Ferber with the Nick Weiser Trio. Ferber is among the most in-demand trombonists in the New York jazz scene, known for his award-winning arrangements and celebrated recordings praised in DownBeat, Stereophile, and the Wall Street Journal.

His versatility extends beyond jazz, with performances alongside Michael Bublé, Harry Connick Jr., Peter Gabriel, and Paul Simon.

“Alan Ferber is one of the great composers of our time,” said Dr. Nick Weiser, Associate Professor and Coordinator of Jazz Studies at SUNY Fredonia, and the new President of Fredonia Jazz Society. “His music is fresh and innovative while staying rooted in tradition. His playing is beautifully lyrical, hauntingly melodic, and deeply expressive. I’m really looking forward to performing with him.”

The Oct. 9 concert will be offered in two seatings, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and 8 to 10:00 p.m., at Domus Fare Restaurant, 41 W. Main St., Fredonia. A limited number of tickets remain and can be reserved in advance at www.fredoniajazzsociety.com. A small number of student tickets will also be available at the door. Dinner and drinks will be offered from Domus Fare’s special jazz night menu.

The season continues on Wednesday, Dec. 10, with a special holiday concert featuring the Weiser/Scozzaro Quartet.

On Thursday, March 5, international touring artist and GRAMMY-nominated drummer Carmen Intorre will join Weiser, Kieran Hanlon, and Elliot Scozzaro for an evening of infectious joy and swing. The series concludes on Thursday, May 7, with Juno Award-winning clarinetist Virginia MacDonald, whose lyrical mastery and dynamic flair will be showcased alongside the Weiser/Scozzaro Quartet.

Each Jazz at Domus Fare event will feature two seatings, at 5:30 and 8:00 p.m. Tickets for individual concerts are now on sale, though early shows are nearly sold out. “I’m continually amazed by the community’s and campus’ support of FJS events,” Weiser said. “Nearly every Domus Fare performance has sold out, and this year looks no different. That’s a credit to the incredible musicians we bring in–including our house band, the Weiser/Scozzaro Quartet. What we’re offering here rivals the most prestigious jazz clubs in the country, and it’s happening right in our small, rural community.”

This season also marks a leadership transition: Weiser succeeds FJS founder Dr. Karl Boelter, Professor Emeritus at SUNY Fredonia, as President. “I’m deeply grateful to Karl for his vision, dedication, and mentorship as I step into this role,” Weiser said. Serving as Artistic Director since 2018, Weiser also recognized the contributions of FJS’s board members, noting their “unique skillsets and perspectives that continue to inspire the path forward.” SUNY Fredonia jazz faculty member Elliot Scozzaro has also been named Musical Director of FJS.

For more information about the Fredonia Jazz Society — including upcoming concerts, past performances, and opportunities to donate — visit www.fredoniajazzsociety.com and follow the Society on social media.