Highly sought after Jazz bassist, Brett Belanger has new group that will perform all originals with pianist, Arshak, Drummer, Ron Wiltrout and Robert Lewis on Saxophone. Barrel Proof is a new band based in Charleston, SC that was born out of a weekly session in which Brett, Robert, Arshak, and Ron would play each other’s original compositions. Starting the very first day, it was discovered that the band also shared a mutual appreciation for whiskey which became an integral part of the weekly sessions. All four members of Barrel Proof contribute compositions that span a wide range of influences which makes for a performance with a vast sonic pallet. Robert Lewis: Based in Charleston, SC, saxophonist/composer/educator Robert Lewis is enjoying a growing presence in the jazz community of the South. Robert is in demand as an artist and clinician, both as a leader and as a sideman. He is the Director of Jazz Studies at the College of Charleston and is the Director of the acclaimed Charleston Jazz Orchestra. Brett Belanger: A native of Greenville, South Carolina, Brett Belanger developed an interest in music performance at the age of 11 when he began playing alto saxophone in middle school band. At age 12 he began playing electric bass and was influenced by artists such as Jaco Pastorius. His jazz education began at this time with multi-instrumentalist Charlie Parker. In high school Brett attended the Fine Art Center studying both saxophone and bass under guitarist Steve Watson while also taking lessons with saxophonist Matt Olson. During this time, he developed a strong foundation in jazz performance and theory while also winning a best-in-class award. Upon graduating, Brett auditioned at the College of Charleston for jazz bass where he earned his B.A. in Jazz Performance under the mentorship of Frank Duvall. He graduated Magna Cum Laude and received three music awards including "Outstanding Student" and "School of the Arts Scholar". After a short time at the college, Brett began studying double bass which he now plays professionally all over the Southeast at restaurants, listening rooms, hotels, and in music festivals. Brett is currently earning his Artist Certificate at the College of Charleston. Arshak Syriunin: Born and raised in the city of Yerevan, Armenia, by the age of seven, Arshak Sirunyan’s natural musical talent had already come to the attention of Sergey Kechek, Director of the A. Spendiarov School of Music; one of the leading musical academies in Armenia. Studying under unparalleled teacher and a music mentor Arkuhi Harutyunyan, Arshak continued his study of classical piano styles for the next 10 years, performing solo concerts and going so far as to receive the third-place award at the 1994 Armenian National J. S. Bach Concerto Competition. Later, he attended and graduated from Komitas State Conservatory, where he concentrated on Composition and Piano Performance under the tutelage of Stephan Rostomyan and Georgy Kasabyan. In the fallowing years Arshak has composed classical and contemporary compositions for vocal, piano, clarinet, string quartet and symphonic orchestra. In 2002, the Armenian Komitas String Quartet performed a work composed by Arshak Sirunyan that was dedicated to the victims of the earthquake that struck Armenia fourteen years earlier. In the year of 2002, after releasing his first album “Armenian Folk Melodies” with his friend Artur Yeghiazaryan, Arshak was granted the great opportunity to come to the United States of America. In 2008 Arshak found and produced a band by name “Double Sharp“with his two childhood friends Levon Mikaelian and Nune Vartanyan, which also includes two veterans of American jazz scene Tony Bunn and Wes Crawford. This gave a birth to the album “With a Song in My Heart“. The same year he began working on his trio album “Journal“[Released in 2010] and Tony’s project “Small World“ [Released in 2009] with Dennis Chambers on drums. In May 2010, “Twitching Eye“from the album “ ” Honorable Mention” from the 2010 International Songwriting Competition. In late 2012 Arshak began working on his “Hoodman’s Blind” project collaborating with multi Grammy Award winning & nominated musicians from all over the world. Featuring Mike Stern, Omar Hakim, Eric Marienthal, Chieli Minucci, Bob Franceschini, Raul Pineda, Cheikh NDoye, John Lamkin III, Arto Tuncboyaciyan, Artyom Manukyan, Artur Yeghiazaryan, Vardanyan String Quartet & more.. Ron Wiltrout is a percussionist based in Charleston, SC. He performs regularly in the Southeast with ensembles whose styles range from jazz and salsa to free improvisation to avant-garde and contemporary classical music. As a performer of new music, he has premiered pieces by Ted Hearne, Michael Pisaro, Sam Sfirri, KCM Walker, Andy Akiho, Sean Friar, Philip White, and Nathan Koci. His work with Ted Hearne has earned him a Grammy Nomination (for Place released 2020.) Wiltrout is devoted to exploring the use of unconventional percussion and extended techniques and integrating the drum set into any musical scenario. He co-leads multiple jazz groups and is the leader and originator of the band Rad Western. Wiltrout has performed with The Charleston Jazz Orchestra, Barrel Proof, Garage Cuban Band, Harry Allen, Lee Barbour, Tommy Gill, Asphalt Orchestra, Gino Castillo and the Cuban Cowboys, Duda Lucena, Conor Donohue, Lindsay Holler, Matadero, Katrina Ballads, Your Bad Self, and the Opposite of a Train. 

Charles Grant is a premier vocalist with a band composed of the finest musicians playing the very best Classic Soul, R&B, Smooth Jazz and Motown hits from the 60's, 70's & 80's. 

Step into an unforgettable night of raw emotion, powerhouse vocals, and timeless hits as Rae Estelle pays homage to one of the most captivating artists of our time - Adele. Backed by an all-star band, Rae takes audiences on a journey through heartbreak, hope, and healing with stunning renditions of classics like Someone Like You, Hello, When We Were Young, and Set Fire to the Rain. With her soulful tone, commanding stage presence, and authentic storytelling, Rae channels the same depth of feeling that makes Adele’s music so universally loved. It’s not just a concert - it’s a reminder of the power of vulnerability, connection, and the beauty in every note. 

Set the mood for an unforgettable evening of music and connection. Datenight with the Charlton Singleton Quintet features a soulful blend of jazz standards, beloved popular tunes, and feel-good favorites—music that’s smooth, swinging, and effortlessly romantic. Led by two-time Grammy Award–winning trumpeter Charlton Singleton, the quintet creates a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for conversation, laughter, and shared moments. Whether you’re out for a first date or a night on the town with someone special, this is the soundtrack for an elegant evening filled with warmth, groove, and timeless style. Bring a companion and let the music set the tone. 🎺✨ Charlton Singleton -Trumpet/Vocal Mark Sterbank - Tenor SAS Demetrius Doctor - Piano Brett Belanger - Bass Ron Wiltrout -Drums 

Brett Belanger is a highly accomplished and sought after bassist. He leads this trio of A-list musicians, Abdiel Iriarte on Piano and Ron Wiltrout on Drums. They cover great American Jazz Standards as well as more contemporary material from the Bebop era. From time time, they include some of their own compositions. Come in for a relaxing night listening to great performances. Join us every Wednesday for an amazing jazz set performed by Charleston's best. 

Forte Jazz Lounge presents an evening of vocal jazz from the Great American Song Book. Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, George and Ira Gershwin, Duke Ellington are just a few of the composers represented in this night dedicated to the the Great American Songbook and the Vocalists that brought them to life for the past 80+ years. Artists like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Billie Holiday, Bobby Darrin, Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, Sarah Vaughn are all celebrated on Thursday Nights. This evening Forte's Owner and veteran Big Band vocalist, Joe Clarke will be entertaining you from 7pm-10pm. 

Musical Director and Pianist Abdiel Iriarte produces this First Friday series exploring Latin Jazz and the Latin Artists that have entertained the world with their infectious rhythms and unique flair for the genre. Featuring the music of Giants of the Latin Jazz like Jesus “Chucho” Valdés, Arturo Sandoval, Tito Puente, Michel Camilo and Original Compositions by Abdiel Iriarte. 

The Forte Jazz Quartet backs up Joe Clarke as he performs from the vast collection of Sinatra Hits! This is one of Forte Jazz Lounge's most popular shows. You'll hear iconic songs made famous by Frank Sinatra like; Fly me to the Moon, I've Got you Under My Skin and Lady is a Tramp. Great Composers from that era will be on full display; Harold Arlen, Cole Porter Gershwin, Mancini to name a few. Join us for this fun and romantic evening full of great music. Abdiel Iriarte - Piano John Kennedy - Bass Josh Hoover - Drums Thomas Norris - Guitar. 

Brett Belanger is a highly accomplished and sought after bassist. He leads this trio of A-list musicians, Abdiel Iriarte on Piano and Ron Wiltrout on Drums. They cover great American Jazz Standards as well as more contemporary material from the Bebop era. From time time, they include some of their own compositions. Come in for a relaxing night listening to great performances. Join us every Wednesday for an amazing jazz set performed by Charleston's best. 

Forte Jazz Lounge presents an evening of vocal jazz from the Great American Song Book. Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, George and Ira Gershwin, Duke Ellington are just a few of the composers represented in this night dedicated to the the Great American Songbook and the Vocalists that brought them to life for the past 80+ years. Artists like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Billie Holiday, Bobby Darrin, Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, Sarah Vaughn are all celebrated on Thursday Nights. This evening Forte's Owner and veteran Big Band vocalist, Joe Clarke will be entertaining you from 7pm-10pm. 

Frank Sinatra, Sam Cooke, Phil Collins, Whitney Houston and many more all together in one night. The greatest love songs of the last 100 years will be presented for lovers of all ages. These performances will give you chills and rekindle your love for each other. Joe Clarke starts off with "Stardust" by Hoagy Carmichael written in 1927 and takes you through the 30's and 40's all the way to a powerful performance of Against All Odds by Phil Collins. Charles Grant who leads Forte's R&B, Soul and Motown nights will lend his wonderful voice to the greatest love songs sung by Nat King Cole, Sam Cook and Bill Withers. Verona Wright takes the lead on Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Adele and Whitney Houston. Joe Clarke has been entertaining for over 30 years. He leads the very popular Joe Clarke Big Band, which performs on the 1st Saturday of every month at Forte. As the owner of Forte Jazz Lounge, he has created an evening where he performs from the beloved American Songbook backed by the Forte House Band. The band members are Joe Clarke on Piano, John Kennedy on Bass, Josh Hoover on Drums and Jon Phillips on Sax. This group creates a chill, fun and relaxing vibe to Joe Clarke's vocals. Composers like Cole Porter, Gershwin, and Duke Ellington will be on full display. Joe Clarke draws from the great vocal traditions of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Bobby Darin. Joe Clarke engages the audience with his intimate performance style and humorous observational humor. Date night just got an upgrade. We look forward to entertaining you! 

Come dance the night away listening to romantic favorites played by Charleston's favorite big Band, The Forte Big Band featuring vocalists Jenna Bohannon and Joe Clarke. Come join us on Friday, February 14 2025 at Forte Jazz Lounge for a night of enchanting music and romantic vibes. Get ready to fall in love all over again as the Forte Big Band takes the stage. Indulge in the smooth sounds of this incredible ensemble, known for their captivating performances. Let the music sweep you off your feet and transport you to a world of pure bliss. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or simply looking for a memorable night out, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience. Grab your partner, friends, or come solo – everyone is welcome to join in the celebration of love and music. Mark your calendars and don't miss out on this extraordinary evening. Book your tickets now and prepare to be serenaded by the Forte Big Band as we fall in love again under the spellbinding ambiance of Forte Jazz Lounge. Helen Dujardin will be preparing some special menu items just for this romantic evening. She will also be creating a dessert buffet which will be included with your ticket. 

Brett Belanger is a highly accomplished and sought after bassist. He leads this trio of A-list musicians, Abdiel Iriarte on Piano and Ron Wiltrout on Drums. They cover great American Jazz Standards as well as more contemporary material from the Bebop era. From time time, they include some of their own compositions. Come in for a relaxing night listening to great performances. Join us every Wednesday for an amazing jazz set performed by Charleston's best.