September, 2026
Benny Goodman Tribute in Rome | September 24, 2026

Time
Event Details
Benny Goodman Tribute in Rome with the Goodmen Trio On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the Goodmen Trio brings a tribute to Benny Goodman and the golden age of swing
Event Details
Benny Goodman Tribute in Rome with the Goodmen Trio
On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the Goodmen Trio brings a tribute to Benny Goodman and the golden age of swing to Elegance Cafè Jazz Club. Clarinet, piano, and drums transform celebrated big-band compositions into an intimate, dynamic, and contemporary concert to enjoy with dinner or a drink.
The concert: swing in a more intimate setting
The Goodmen Trio’s tribute to Benny Goodman is designed for listeners who love the lightness, elegance, and rhythmic vitality of the Swing Era, but wish to experience them through a less conventional lineup.
The trio revisits classics from the 1930s associated with Goodman, the clarinetist, composer, and bandleader regarded as one of the defining masters of that period.
Performing without a double bass gives the project its distinctive identity. Clarinet, piano, and drums reinterpret music often written for large orchestras, opening it up to a more agile and intimate form of musical dialogue.
A trio without double bass
The absence of double bass does not diminish the energy of the repertoire. Instead, it encourages the three musicians to distribute rhythm, harmony, and movement in a different way.
The piano supports and completes the harmonic framework, the drums preserve the momentum of swing, and the clarinet leads the melodic line.
Sounds, colors, and open spaces are explored with care, preserving the original character of the music while allowing more contemporary ideas to emerge.
The result is elegant, direct swing that creates an immediate sense of involvement without sacrificing attentive listening.
The musicians on stage
- Michele Villari – clarinet
- Emanuele Rizzo – piano
- Andrea Bonioli – drums
Michele Villari’s clarinet naturally evokes the sound world of Benny Goodman. Around its melodic line, Emanuele Rizzo’s piano and Andrea Bonioli’s drums create a flexible rhythmic fabric in which each instrument can alternate between a supporting and leading role.
Dinner and concert: an evening with vintage charm
The world of swing naturally complements the atmosphere of Elegance Cafè. The cocktail bar draws inspiration from the speakeasies of the 1920s, while the concert brings the rhythmic elegance of the 1930s back to the stage.
The drink and concert package, priced at €25, includes access to the live performance and a selection from the cocktail bar.
With the dinner and concert package, guests can choose two à la carte courses from starters, first courses, and main courses. The final price varies according to the dishes selected.
The menu combines Italian roots, international influences, and references to Creole and Cajun cuisine, with seasonal ingredients at the heart of the dining experience.
The atmosphere at Elegance Cafè
The Goodmen Trio presents swing that is meant to be heard up close. With a stage visible from the tables and acoustics designed for live music, the Elegance Cafè room enhances this sense of proximity.
The clarinet can emerge with complete clarity, while the piano and drums retain depth and definition.
The intimate setting makes the evening ideal for dinner for two, a gathering with friends, or a distinctive night out in Rome.
In-depth focus: the legacy of Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman was one of the central figures of the Swing Era. His ability to place the clarinet at the center of the ensemble and combine precision, elegance, and rhythmic force continues to offer rich material for new interpretations.
Rather than simply imitating the past, the Goodmen Trio works with the musical structure of the repertoire. By reducing the size of the ensemble, the trio highlights the melodic design, rhythmic pulse, and relationship between the instruments.
Practical information and reservations
Event: Goodmen Trio – Tribute to Benny Goodman
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026
Venue: Elegance Cafè Jazz Club
Address: Via Francesco Carletti 5, Rome
Venue opens: 6:00 p.m.
Dinner service: from 7:00 p.m.
Concert begins: 9:30 p.m.
Drink and concert: €25
Dinner and concert: two à la carte courses, variable price
Let the clarinet, rhythm, and elegance of swing guide your evening. Reserve your table for the Goodmen Trio’s tribute to Benny Goodman and choose the package that best suits your night.
Jazz Concert Rome September 24 2026
with
GOODMEN TRIO – tribute to Benny Goodman
Book your table for the à la carte dinner:
Alternatively you can call (39) 3791360278
or (39) 0657284458.
With 2 courses of your choice among starter, first course and main course, the concert is included.
Drink & Concert package also available at €25.
or
FAQ
Are there vegetarian/vegan options on the menu?
Yes, vegetarian dishes are available, and vegan options can be provided upon request.
Can I have dinner during the jazz concert?
Yes, each evening offers either a dinner + concert or a drink + concert option. We recommend booking in advance to secure your table.
Can I purchase a gift card?
Yes, gift cards are available for all scheduled events, except New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, tables are limited to ensure an intimate and high-quality experience.
How can I stay updated on upcoming events?
You can subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on the best jazz concerts in Rome and upcoming events at Elegance Cafè Jazz Club.
Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Elegance Cafè is accessible to guests with reduced mobility. Please mention any specific needs when making your reservation.
What time does the concert start?
The concert starts at 9:30 PM, but the aperitivo is available from 6:00 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM.
