Old School Jazz All Stars & Saugatuck Horns

The Staples Academy Foundation proudly presents an unforgettable evening of live music on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Easton Congregational Church Hall. This special event, produced by Roger Kaufman under his Speaking of Music series, will feature the dynamic Old School Jazz All Stars alongside The Saugatuck Horns.

The performance showcases a stellar lineup of seasoned musicians, including Chris Coogan (piano, vocals, conductor), Tim DeHuff (guitar, music director), Tyger MacNeal (drums), and John Mobilio (bass), joined by The Saugatuck Horns—Dan Donofrio (trumpet) and Fred Scerbo (saxophone). Together, they will deliver an evening of soulful melodies, swing, and classic jazz energy in an intimate setting.

This concert is part of the broader mission championed by Kaufman and the Old School Revue All Stars, whose 2025–26 season celebrates the golden age of American Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Rock, Jazz, and Swing. For over 20 years, Kaufman’s ensembles have delighted audiences with carefully curated selections from Booker T. & The MG’s and Marvin Gaye to Steely Dan and Tower of Power focusing on timeless music rarely heard live today. Their philosophy remains rooted in melody, harmony, rhythm, and a commitment to inclusivity, diversity, education, and awareness.

Audience members can expect a lively, nostalgic program blending jazz standards, early R&B influences, and classic arrangements, performed by musicians whose collective résumés include collaborations with icons such as Steely Dan, Joe Cocker, Aretha Franklin, and The Rolling Stones.

Doors open at 6:30 PM, and tickets are $20. Refreshments will be provided. Proceeds from the event will support the preservation and maintenance of the historic Staples Academy building, a landmark dating back to 1795 and one of the nation’s earliest co-educational facilities.

When: Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)

Where: Easton Congregational Church Hall, 336 Center Road, Easton, CT

Tickets: $20 available online or at the door. Info: (347) 678-7230 or visit staplesacademyfoundation.org

About the Staples Academy Foundation: Dedicated to preserving Easton’s historic Staples Academy building, the Foundation supports educational and cultural programming that connects the community with its rich heritage.