Emerson College UnCommon Corner

Jesse Taitt
2025-09-05 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
Jesse Taitt is a multifaceted pianist, composer, arranger, and educator with a rich musical journey. He holds a dual degree in Jazz Composition and Professional Music from Berklee College of Music, where he refined his sensitivity and technical prowess. Starting at the Boston Arts Academy, Jesse cultivated his musicality studying Classical music with Boston Conservatory Professor Harriet Lundberg and Jazz under Hey Rim Jeon through the Berklee City Music Program.

Throughout his academic journey at the Arts Academy and Berklee, Jesse engaged with luminaries such as Phillip Bailey, Seymour Bernstein, Dr. Billy Taylor, Regina Carter, George Duke, Walter Beasley, Doug Johnson, Laszlo Gardony, Joanne Brackeen, En Vogue, Patrice Rushen, Geri Allen, Gavin Degraw, Mark Gross, Lou Cash, Boston Pops, Hugh Masakela, Bill Charlap, Vincent Herring, and Cecil Bridgewater.

As an active participant in the Boston music scene, he directed Boston-based group Jazz Urbane, was the driving force behind the Jesse Taitt Trio, and earned recognition as a dedicated AmeriCorp Community Leader and Public Allies Leader.

Jesse’s impact extended beyond his performances, as he also contributed as an Artist-Educator in the Boston Arts Academy’s Alumni Creative Core program. Notably, he achieved international recognition as an International Guest Artist in Rwanda during the summer of 2013. There, he led master classes and headlined the Kigali UP Festival, collaborating with esteemed artists like Joey Blake and sharing his artistry on projects alongside the likes of George Duke, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Christian Scott.

A pursuit of excellence led Jesse to complete his Masters in Music with a focus on Jazz Arranging and Composition at William Paterson University in 2017. Today, Jesse is Assistant Professor in the Harmony and Jazz Composition Department and Lecturer of Jazz Piano at Dartmouth College.

As a skilled pianist, composer, and educator, Jesse continually ventures into new musical and philanthropic realms. With his diverse experiences, including his time as a sideman on various projects, his impact resonates across New York, Boston, and New Jersey. Keep an eye out for Jesse’s forthcoming projects that promise fresh artistic perspectives and innovative collaborations.

Anibal Cruz
2025-09-05 15:00 - 17:00
Cuban Pianist, Composer, Arranger, and Bandleader Anibal Cruz is a Berklee graduate, skilled in Composition and Jazz performance. Since launching his career, he has achieved significant milestones including his first single, “La Raza,” released in 2021. Cruz has performed alongside notable artists such as Paquito de Rivera, Armando Manzanero, Egui Castrillo, Joe McCarthy, Ruben Rodrigez, Alain Perez, and Berta Rojas, in addition to being part of the cast of Ayodele Casel’s “Chasing Magic.”

His international tours span Europe, Latin America, and the United States, featuring performances with Ayodele Casel, David Rivera, DeJan, Los Adolescentes, Manolo Mairena, Cucu Diamantes, and Adonis Puentes since 2018. As a bandleader, he heads Clave & Blues, a Cuban & Latin Music Orchestra, and The Blue Island Project, a Latin Jazz quartet.

In his growing discography, Cruz has contributed to several albums including “Ricano” by Jonathan Suazo, “Illegal Grooves” by Nacho Gonzalez, “Ká Berto” by Jaasiel Sança, “Coffee Gold Sugar Cane” by Flavio Lira, “De todo un poco” by Manolo Mairena, and “Desde Lejos” by Juan Ruiz. His involvement in these diverse projects showcases his versatility and commitment to his musical career.

¡Baila Boston! Salsa Night
2025-09-05 18:00 - 21:00
Photo by Emerson College

¡Baila Boston! Salsa Night

Featuring Ágora Cultural Architects and Salsa y Control

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

In partnership with our community curator Ágora Cultural Architects, the premiere Latinx cultural presenting organization Greater Boston, and Hernan Choque of beloved Salsa studio Salsa y Control, UnCommon’s Salsa Nights feature a live Salsa band, Son Mass, DJ Hernan Choque, free community Salsa dance lessons from Salsa y Control, professional performances, and open dance. The Common comes to life with Salsa beats and UnCommon provides an unforgettable opportunity for shared, cultural experiences.

To make the evening even more delicious, El Jefe’s Taqueria will be serving an UnCommon Salsa Flight (three salsas and chips) for $9.95 and will be featuring a salsa tasting!

Common Folk
2025-09-06 13:00 - 18:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Common Folk is a celebration of the Black folk tradition; past, present, and future, brought to life on Boston Common. Presented under the We Black Folk Showcase banner, this multigenerational concert brings together artists whose work spans genres, regions, and eras, but is united by the soul of Black expression. From roots revivalists and blues storytellers to alt-folk experimentalists and next-gen voices redefining what “folk” can be, Common Folk honors the multiplicity of Black identity through music.

Set on the historic grounds of Boston Common, this free outdoor concert invites the public to witness the enduring presence and radical evolution of Black folk music in all its forms.

Artist Bios

Albino Mbie

Albino Mbie is an award winning Musician, Guitarist, Singer, Composer, Sound and mixing engineer born in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, a country in southern Africa known for its rich musical and cultural heritage. Fueled by the resourcefulness and determination that have always characterized Mozambicans, he built his first guitar at 16 from a 5-liter can of oil, scrap wood, and strings made out of electrical cords.

@albinombie

@Albino-Mbie

https://albinombie.com/

Tyler Donkoh-Halm

Tyler Donkoh-Halm is a Boston based multi-instrumentalist that specializes in taking the ukulele into genres you’ve never heard it in before! With strong roots in R&B, funk, jazz, folk, and more, Tyler fuses countless styles together to fit his percussive and melodic ways of playing each instrument in his arsenal. With a wide array of performances both local and international, each show is unique and unlike the last, always keeping things exciting and the audience on their toes!

@tylerdhalm

Andrew Sue Wing

Andrew Sue Wing is a seventeen-year-old R&B singer/songwriter and guitarist from Boston, MA. Equipped with a strong baritone voice and a unique style of rhythm and lead guitar, he’s able to belt out soaring choruses and deliver soulful ballads. He has performed over 100 live shows since he was thirteen, scored Cassie Crowe’s ‘Mid’ Life, a feature-length film, and released his debut EP, Seventeen. With influences such as Stevie Wonder, Gregory Porter, and Gary Clark Jr., his originals combine blues, rock, funk, and soul.

@brooklynnamme

@andrew.sue.wing

https://andrewsuewing.com/

Gabriella Simpkins

Gabriella Simpkins is an award-winning singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Cape Cod, MA. Informed by her experiences across genres and performance setting, her music exists at the intersections of folk, classical, jazz, and indie rock.

While simultaneously independently managing her career, Simpkins attends Salem State University in the Bachelor of Arts Music program and focuses specifically in music theory and classical composition. She performs regularly in the Boston area, teaches applied music theory and songwriting, and hopes to establish herself as a freelance composer in the coming years.

@brooklynnamme

@gabriellasimpkinsmusic

https://linktr.ee/gabriellasimpkinsmusic

Lydia “The LovelySinger” Harrell

Lydia “The LovelySinger” Harrell is one of Boston’s finest musical treasures. Her sultry, soulful voice and evocative songwriting have garnered her the attention and respect of the nation’s finest musicians and venues. Jazz/Soul is where her heart is, however, Lydia has shown an unbreakable ability to mold herself into any musical situation. Be it performing with the Boston Pops, serenading NBA fans with America’s National Anthem, or lending her vocal talents to a chart-topping deep house singles by British record label, Reel People Music, Lydia’s dedication to extracting the pure essence of song goes virtually unmatched.

Some of her notable musical accolades include singing lead on a Bob Marley Tribute Album distributed by Sony Music Latin, winning the 2015 Duke Ellington Jazz Vocal Competition, performing at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, NYC (2016), winning the 2017 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival Voice Competition and winner of the Best Song at the 48 Hour Film Project Boston. More recently, Lydia sang on the 2022 Daytime Emmy Winning song, “Grateful For It All” written by Brad Hatfield, Gaye Tolan Hatfield and Jeff Meegan and aired on The Young and The Restless in May 2021. Lydia was invited to sing backing vocals for the great Jon Batiste in September 2022 along with The Boston Pops accompanying.

@lovelysinger

@LovelySinger

Buggy Jive

Buggy Jive is a semi-reclusive acoustic soul rock singer-songwriter from Albany, New York, equal parts Zeppelin and D’Angelo and Prince and Joni in sound and sensibility. Recent accomplishments include opening slots for Macy Gray and Ben Folds; a feature as a “Top Shelf” entry for NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest; and best songwriter, album and music video wins for Upstate New York’s “Eddies” Awards. New album Icarus Ascending arrives Fall 2025.

@buggyjive

https://www.buggyjive.com/

@BuggyJive

Tolieth
2025-09-06 19:00 - 21:00
Tolieth is a contemporary soul singer fusing elements of reggae, Afrobeats, and pop into an upbeat live performance. Good vibes and smooth grooves are guaranteed with Tolieth on the mic.

Alyssa Barker
2025-09-07 12:00 - 14:00
Alyssa Barker

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Embark on a musical journey with Alyssa Barker, a violinist celebrated for her transcendent performances that seamlessly blend classical elegance with contemporary innovation. Alyssa specializes in both acoustic and electric violin performances, showcasing her versatility and unique ability to bridge traditional and modern musical worlds. Alyssa’s extraordinary talent has graced iconic stages worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music scene. Her musical odyssey has flourished under the guidance of renowned mentors, including Dr. Bill Banfield, Julius Williams, and original Trans Siberian Orchestra member Mark Wood. Having studied with these luminaries, she not only honed her technical prowess but also developed a unique artistic voice that sets her apart. Mark Wood, praising her exceptional skill and leadership, remarked, “Not only is Alyssa a master on the violin, but she also has tremendous talent in leadership and commitment to her passion, which is music and life.” Known for her collaborative spirit, Alyssa has shared the stage with Grammy Award-winning and nominated artists such as Larry Klein, Allen Stone, Daymé Arocena, Kenny Werner, and Sweet Honey in the Rock. Her performances resonate with a fusion of genres, showcasing a dynamic range that captivates audiences around the globe. Alyssa’s impressive repertoire includes performances at illustrious venues like Carnegie Hall in New York and Symphony Hall in Boston. Beyond the classical realm, she has made significant contributions to the world of film and comedy, featuring on the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack of the Academy Award-contending documentary “Sky Blossom: Diaries of the Next Greatest Generation” and appearing on the latest Sarah Silverman comedy special, “Someone You Love.”

@alyssabarkermusic

@alyssabarkermusic/

https://www.alyssabarkermusic.com/

https://linktr.ee/alyssabarkermusic

Sheryl Bailey Trio
2025-09-07 15:00 - 17:00
Sheryl Bailey Trio

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Jazz guitarist, Sheryl Bailey brings her “Three-0” to UnCommon Corner, featuring drummer Neal Smith and bassist Ian Ashby.

Sheryl is the Assistant Chair of Guitar at Berklee, and has toured world wide with her own duo, trio and quartet projects and as a side person with artists such as: Jerry Bergonzi, George Garzone, Anat Cohen, and Rufus Reid. She has ten releases as a leader.

Sheryl will bring her “Sizzling Guitar Goddess” skills, the joy of improvisation and kinship with her bandmates as she plays her original music and choice standards for the UnCommon community.

https://www.sherylbailey.com/

Farayi Malek
2025-09-09 18:00 - 20:00
Farayi Malek

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

With her warm, soulful voice, Farayi Malek has captivated audiences around the globe as a Grammy-nominated vocalist with Danilo Pérez’s Global Messengers. Now, she’s returning to her musical roots, embarking on a new chapter of her journey.

The child of a Zimbabwean immigrant and a white American mother, Farayi grew up in a small, rural town in Southern Idaho, playing the fiddle and absorbing the culture of seemingly conflicting communities. Her goal is to bring all of the diverse sounds and experiences of her life into her music: the Gospel of the church she grew up in, the American folk music and hymns of her childhood, and the blues and jazz she studied, all woven into pure, resonant songs that allow her effortless vocals to shine.

Now a Salt Lick Incubator award-winner, Farayi is stepping out as a solo artist on her much anticipated debut recording project produced by Alain Mallet [Phil Woods, Paul Simon, Paquito D’Rivera, Marc Johnson, and Madeleine Peyroux.] Her writing showcases very accessible themes with a unique compositional intelligence, demonstrated in songs like “Tonight”.

When she is not performing and recording, Farayi shares her vast musical knowledge as a professor at various esteemed institutions including Berklee College of Music and New England Conservatory. In an interview with The Boston Globe, Farayi says, “Seeing my students be so brave and confident, so artistic and free…they’re the ones who actually inspired me to pursue my artistic career.”

Whether she is engaging with her audience through performance or education, Farayi is driven by the desire to make people feel seen and at home in their otherness.

She will be releasing her debut EP March 27th, 2025.

@farayi.malek

@farayi.malek

www.farayimalek.com

Tim Hall
2025-09-10 16:00 - 18:00
Tim Hall is an award winning musician, performance poet, and producer from Detroit, MI, while honoring Boston as his current home. His poetry draws inspiration from his lived experiences – charting the nuances of blackness, masculinity, and the beauties of life. Tim has shared stages and recordings with artists such as The Nappy Roots, Carolyn Malachi, Bilal, Chris Turner, Aloe Blacc, Maria Fenklemeier, The Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Diana Oh, among others. Additionally, Tim is faculty at Berklee College of Music, a member of the award winning band STL GLD, and a principal collaborator with Cliff Notez, Oompa, and Will Dailey. He was honored as “Session Musician of the Year” by the 2020 Boston Music Awards, and recognized by WBUR’s Artery 25 as 1 of 25 millennials of color impacting Arts and Culture in Boston. His work can be experienced through his new project – Trust the Process EP, as well as Colors Of My Soul, and self-published book – Trust The Process.

https://www.timvhall.com/

Cliff Notez
2025-09-10 18:00 - 20:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Prolific collaborator and award-winning multimedia artist Cliff Notez seamlessly manifests a mix of hip hop, jazz, folk, soul and R&B that’s been likened to “Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp A Butterfly, blended with the paranoia of Radiohead’s Kid A.”Their music reveals the repercussions of trauma, exposes the realities of the Black experience, and shares an intimate journey towards healing. Heavy lyrical themes are often juxtaposed with uplifting sounds: bright horns, sparkling keys, snappy percussion and glowing guitar riffs.Cliff Notez’s work has caught the attention of publications like The New York Times, NPR, The Boston Globe, and Boston Herald, among others and have garnered shoutouts from the likes of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. They performed at Boston Calling Music Festival in 2022 and have previously shared the stage with Ja Rule and Gym Class Heroes.

https://cliffnotez.com/

BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Back To School
2025-09-11 16:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Back To School

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Every Thursday, join Toki Wright and BAMS Fest at UnCommon for the S.O.U.L.stice series. This week’s performance will celebrate the back to school season and feature TBD.

Dan DeCristofaro
2025-09-12 12:00 - 14:00
Dan DeCristofaro

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Dan DeCristofaro is a soulful singer, songwriter, producer and arranger based in Massachusetts. He is a founding member of Blue Light Bandits, an award winning, 4-piece independent groove rock band from Worcester, MA that has amassed over 3 million streams on Spotify over the course of 3 full length albums, 2 EP’s, and an array of singles. In 2022 he formed quiet thrill, a singer / songwriter super duo along with long time friend and collaborator Joel Ansett and Dan DeCristofaro. They released their debut self-titled album in July ‘22 and are currently on a nationwide house tour, directly engaging with their fans in an intimate setting. Whether he is performing with a band or as a solo artist, Dan has been a staple of the New England music scene for 10 years.

Preston Chan
2025-09-12 15:00 - 17:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Preston Chan is a DJ and producer pushing the boundaries of housemusic with a sound that’s equal parts heavy, rhythmic, and infectious.Based in Boston and studying at Berklee College of Music, Preston bringsboth technical precision and creative energy to his craft. He hasperformed at bars and clubs across Singapore and Boston, sharing hisunique blend of late night grooves and funky beach vibes with influencesfrom popular music/hiphop. His sets are designed to keep the crowdlocked in from start to finish, telling a unique story with every set.Alongside his performances, Preston is steadily building a catalog ofpersonal releases and edits that showcase his knack for heavy drops,punchy low-end, and festival-ready energy. His tracks reflect the sameintensity and precision he brings to his DJ sets, positioning him as both aperformer and creator ready for the stage. With a growing catalog oforiginal productions and an ear for curation, Preston is emerging as anexciting new voice in the global music scene.

@prestonchannn

Jules Grace
2025-09-12 19:00 - 21:00
Jules Grace

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Jules Grace is an independent artist from Boston who just released her debut album “Diaries & Daydreams.” She has been playing guitar since she was nine and grew up playing in cover bands. Jules enjoys making a variety of music, ranging from dreamy indie-pop to heavier rock. Performing on radio station WERS, Musicians Wanted, and local venues around Boston, Jules has been gaining momentum in her music career.

Juan Carlos Ruiz
2025-09-13 13:00 - 15:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Juan Carlos Ruiz is a Venezuelan artist, economist, entrepreneur, and TEDx Speaker. He holds a Master of Science in Operation Research and a Master of Business Administration. Since 2016, he has resided in Boston, Massachusetts, where he has performed concerts in several cities across the U.S. and abroad.

Ruiz won the Global Music Award twice in 2022 and was a semifinalist at “Premios de la Música Independiente of Spain.” He is an associated member of The Latin Recording Academy® and The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers.

As a former member of the Rumbarroco Ensemble of Boston, Ruiz has been an invited music instructor and performer with various institutions, including ArCoNet (The Arts & Community Network) in Montgomeryville, Pennsylvania. He has also performed for Eddy Marcano, the Lorcas Music Society by Belmary Lorcas, The Winiker Jazz Trio, Zaira Meneses, Berklee College of Music in Boston, ArtBeat 2019 (Somerville’s largest cultural festival), the Dalí Quartet International Music Festival (2017 and 2018), the Latin Music Festival at Berklee College of Music (2019), and Semana Coral Internacional De Alava in Spain (2000).

Ruiz began his musical studies in Venezuela at the age of eight, playing the Cuatro, or Venezuelan guitar, and as a violist, in which he was one of the founding musicians of his town’s El Sistema youth symphony orchestra division.

In addition to his music career, Ruiz is a sought-after speaker. In 2018, he was invited to speak for a nonprofit organization at Boston University called Plan País, which provides educational experiences to young Venezuelans studying abroad. More recently, Ruiz was invited to speak at the INCAE Business School in Costa Rica and Universidad Latina de Costa Rica.

Ruiz is a music teacher in various Boston-area music programs, and an active board member for multiple Bostonian and Philadelphian non-for-profit organizations. He is passionate about connecting with every individual by expanding their awareness of culture and society. Furthermore, during his career as an economist, he has been driven by the power of innovation for every organization. As a musician, he strongly believes in the value and power of art for humanity. His most recent accomplishment has been the release of the Venezuelan Songbook, the first album of its kind in English, for which he obtained a Global Music Award in 2022.

@vozjuancarlos

The Timba Messengers
2025-09-13 19:00 - 21:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

The Timba Messengers is a Latin Jazz/Salsa Band that has generated a compelling musical style that inspires all to shed their daily troubles and revel in the joy of dance. Their live performances are infused with vibrant energy, radiating positivity and good cheer to all in attendance.

Combining the rich musical heritage of Latin America with elements of Jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, the band’s sound is a melting pot of diverse cultural influences, expertly blended to produce a truly unique listening experience. The distinctive flavor of each member’s nationality adds an additional layer of spice to their music, resulting in a dynamic and captivating sonic tapestry.

https://www.thetimbamessengers.com/

Soulelujah
2025-09-14 12:00 - 14:00
Formed in 2003 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Soulelujah is an all-vinyl DJ collective and dance party that has been spinning the finest soul, funk, and R&B 45s, along with other slabs of wax, for the past two decades. Playing freshly-unearthed gems to solid favorites, this award-winning dance party has become a Boston-area staple, captivating dance-ready crowds with sweet soul grooves and infectious funk that gets bodies moving.

What began as a modest gathering at ZuZu in Central Square quickly transformed into a weekly, line-down-the-block beloved Cambridge nightlife institution you had to experience up close and personal. Soulelujah’s room-packing popularity led to its expansion, adding a second space at The Middle East Upstairs. After 15 years of resounding success, earning accolades from the Boston Music Awards, the party moved to The Sinclair in Harvard Square, establishing a vibrant weekly Saturday night residency for five years. Soulelujah has currently set up shop at State Park in Kendall Square, hosting its smooth, pulsating grooves on the third Saturday of each month.

Led by a rotating crew of seasoned resident soul DJs, including Raligh Fingers, IPL, DJ Rad Joy, Sean Marquand, Johnny Stevens, Claude Money, Ty Jesso, and John Funke as well as a variety of guests from around the world, Soulelujah thrives on an endless collection of records carefully curated to create an uplifting party like no other. Their deep crate-digging, musical knowledge, and passion for bringing vinyl rarities to light fuel their performances, inviting you to experience a dance night of musical soul bliss that will keep your own soul happy.

www.soulelujah.com

@soulelujah on Instagram / www.facebook.com/Soulelujah

Johnny Instagram: @jhnystvns

Geri Barney
2025-09-14 15:00 - 16:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Geraldine Barney’s music explores the relationship between the traditional Navajo values and beliefs she grew up with on the Navajo Reservation in Northwest New Mexico with contemporary city life off the reservation. Living in two cultures is a prominent theme in her music and art. Geraldine studied the Native American Flute at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, NM.

Geraldine, singer and song writer whose work is included in two Smithsonian Folkways CD’s; “Music of New Mexico: Native American Traditions” and “Heartbeat: Voices of First Nations Women”.

@GERAL.DINE.BARNEY

Candida Rose
2025-09-14 16:00 - 17:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Candida Rose Baptista is a multi-hyphenate in the areas of musical, cultural, & spiritual enrichment, boasting credentials as a songwriter, vocalist, author, educator, entrepreneur, mother/grandmother/great-grandmother, and community leader. A proud KabuVerdiana hailing from New Bedford, Massachusetts, Candida Rose is dedicated to studying and educating about the transnational musical legacy of Cabo Verdean Americans; she has published a book on this topic, KabuMerikanus – the Sum of US, based on original research for which she received a Master’s degree in Transnational, Cultural, and Community Studies from UMass Boston. Candida’s educational efforts have received national attention through a feature on PBS’s No Passport Required; her scholarship on Cabo Verdean women in music was published in a scholarly edited collection, Kriolas Poderozas; and her research travels to Cabo Verde are the topic of a forthcoming documentary film directed by Dr. Rosalyn Negrón, called Candida. Candida works creatively in the medium of sound, and has released two studio albums: KabuMerikana: The Sum of ME and Here I AM!. KabuMerikana brings Candida’s deep knowledge of Cabo Verdean genres like the slow, lilting morna and the polyrhythmic batuku and her training in jazz musicianship into an exciting fusion that she calls “KabuJazz.” Here I AM!, released in 2023, reflects on Candida’s spiritual journey through a sonic exploration of various cultural traditions, such as R&B, jazz, and world music. She has performed with Cabo Verdean stars like Maria de Barros and Tiny Tavares and appeared onstage at the 2014 Kriol Jazz Festival in Cabo Verde. As an entrepreneur, Candida spearheads Golden Rose Music LLC, through which she continues to share the healing power of music at nursing homes and retirement villages, as she has done for nearly 18 years. With her uniquely compelling contralto voice, Candida Rose amplifies beautiful musical sounds, positive spirituality, and important cultural conversations.

@goldenrosemusic

@GoldenRoseMusic

www.candidarose.net

Ángela Varo and Friends
2025-09-16 18:00 - 20:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Ángela Varo Moreno is an Andalusian violinist, composer, and producer whose innovative music merges the worlds of jazz and flamenco. Rooted in the Andalusian cultural heritage, her sound brings together traditional flamenco influences with contemporary jazz improvisation. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, she earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Contemporary Writing and Production and Jazz Performance, as well as a Master’s in Jazz Performance from the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, led by Danilo Pérez. Ángela has collaborated with jazz legends like Danilo Perez, Kris Davis, John Patitucci, Terri Lyne Carrington, Joe Lovano, andBrian Blade among others, and currently performs as a member of Pérez’s Global Jazz Messengers.

Ángela’s work also highlights the artistry of her native Andalusia through collaborations with the renowned flamenco group Califato 3/4, which combines electronic elements with flamenco roots. Thanks to Califato 3/4, she has worked with celebrated flamenco vocalists Lole Montoya and Ángeles Toledano, contributing her arrangements and violin performances to projects that honor and reinvent Andalusian musical traditions. Currently, Ángela is developing her debut album, Dançâ del Aire, under Habitable Records, which explores themes of migration, Andalusian identity, and cultural connection through a Global Jazz lens.

@angelavaromusic

angelavaromusic.com

Thom Dunn
2025-09-17 16:00 - 18:00
Thom Dunn has been writing songs since the late 1900s. He is best known for his work with the Boston-based power-pop band the Roland High Life, which formed at Emerson College and recently appeared at the Boston Rock & Roll Rumble, as well as his Irish folk rock group, Forfocséic. He also performs solo, as an Americana folk punk singer-songwriter. Over the years, he’s performed as a guitarist for several touring theatre productions along the northeast corridor, and his songs have collectively garnered hundreds of thousands of streams. Thom is also a full-time writer and journalist, whose work can be found in publications ranging from the New York Times to BoingBoing. He’s written several novels, plays, comic books, and scripted podcasts as well. thomdunn.net

Lee Fish & Friends
2025-09-17 18:00 - 20:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Lee Fish‘s original music can best be described as a blend of all his favorite styles – ranging from jazz, soul/r&b to folk and film music. Groove, melody, and communication are the core elements that bring their unique sound to life. Keep an eye out for his future tour dates and more upcoming performances in Boston and NYC.

@leefishmusic

@leefishmusic

https://www.leefishmusic.com/

BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice featuring Toki Wright, ZURI, & Dart Mortis
2025-09-18 16:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, ZURI, & Dart Mortis

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Every Thursday, join Toki Wright and BAMS Fest at UnCommon for the S.O.U.L.stice series. This week’s performance will feature Toki Wright, ZURI, & Dart Mortis.

Preston Chan
2025-09-19 13:00 - 15:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Preston Chan is a DJ and producer pushing the boundaries of housemusic with a sound that’s equal parts heavy, rhythmic, and infectious.Based in Boston and studying at Berklee College of Music, Preston brings both technical precision and creative energy to his craft.

He has performed at bars and clubs across Singapore and Boston, sharing his unique blend of late night grooves and funky beach vibes with influences from popular music/hiphop. His sets are designed to keep the crowd locked in from start to finish, telling a unique story with every set.

Alongside his performances, Preston is steadily building a catalog ofpersonal releases and edits that showcase his knack for heavy drops,punchy low-end, and festival-ready energy. His tracks reflect the sameintensity and precision he brings to his DJ sets, positioning him as both a performer and creator ready for the stage. With a growing catalog of original productions and an ear for curation, Preston is emerging as an exciting new voice in the global music scene.

@Instagram

@prestonchannn

Kathleen Parks Band
2025-09-19 16:00 - 18:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Kathleen Parks is a fiddler, singer, and songwriter who brings joyful and creative energy to the stage and studio. For the last 10 years, she has been heavily involved in touring and recording with her Americana/Jamgrass band Twisted Pine, where she sings, writes, and fiddles. On her upcoming solo album, her captivating songs lean more toward Pop, Folk, and classic Jazz, while her virtuosic fiddle blends and reimagines traditional and modern musical styles with boundless groove and playful improvisational spirit. Her deep grounding in Celtic and American roots music combines with her love for pop songwriting, soulful vocals, and groove-based improvisation, making every KP performance unexpected yet familiar: a musical journey from beginning to end. Over the years, Parks has shared the stage with artists such as Paula Cole, Sammy Rae & The Friends, Gordon Lightfoot, Aoife O’Donovan, The Punch Brothers, Jerry Douglas, and Sierra Hull.

@kathleenparksmusic

@KathleenParksMusic

https://www.kathleenparksmusic.com/home

Jonathan Suazo
2025-09-20 13:00 - 15:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Saxophonist/composer Jonathan Suazo and his trio will present a fresh mix of Jazz Standards and Latin Classics combined with original compositions from Suazo’s formal debut album release “RICANO” which draws inspiration from the traditional rhythms of his Puerto Rican / Dominican roots.

Trivia at UnCommon with Lito Garcia
2025-09-20 18:00 - 19:15
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Calling all trivia enthusiasts! Grab some friends and head to UnCommon for a Boston arts and culture Trivia Night, hosted by the Office of the Arts’ own Lito Garcia.Before he was OA’s MVP Operation Coordinator, Lito was a superstar trivia host! He’ll be covering categories of history, music, theater, visual art, and other surprises questions with a tie to UnCommon!Whether you’re playing for glory or playing for the super cool prize, you won’t want to miss your chance to experience the first Trivia Night at UnCommon!

Bencils
2025-09-20 19:00 - 21:00
Bencils

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Bencils is an indie/alternative artist with the swag of a hip-hop icon. His latest original single: “Pushstart” is a standout track from his new album “Lonely”, released on April 18th, 2025. The song encapsulates Bencils’ journey of re-finding himself after a situation related to family resulted in his whole world getting turned upside-down. Resonating with listeners because of its catchy hook, driving instrumental, and personal yet relatable lyrics, and drawing influences from a wise range of artists such as: The Smashing Pumpkins, The Strokes, Laundry Day, MGMT, and Jean Dawson; Bencils delivers a fresh and exciting sound that blends nostalgia with the raw yet polished energy needed for a perfect Summer anthem.

@2002bencils

Pop Off: A Brunch Cabaret
2025-09-21 12:00 - 14:00
Iris Luis-Gómez

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Join Emerson College musical theater performers as they light up the Boston Common with a high-energy cabaret packed with songs, personality, and pure flair. Paired with tacos from El Jefe’s and brews from Harpoon, this Sunday gathering is equal parts brunch and performance — a chance to kick back, laugh, and cheer on the next generation of theater-makers as they pop off in style.

Artist Bios

Benjamin McGee

Benjamin McGee is an Emerson student

Raiya Hurt

Raiya Hurt is an Emerson student.

Rowen Goring

Rowen Goring is an Emerson student.

Sydney Hoffman

Sydney Hoffman is an Emerson student.

Gilbert Almaraz

Gilbert Almaraz is an Emerson student.

Emily Barnett

Emily Barnett is an Emerson student.

Zack Bolles Band
2025-09-21 15:00 - 17:00
UnCommon favorites, The Zack Bolles Band, return to the Corner. This folk rock trio featuries Abe Dewing on fiddle, Ed Cardenas on cajon and Zack Bolles on guitar.

www.zackbolles.com

@zackbollesband
