Weekend Jazz Guide: 3 Must-See Shows

Melissa Aldana

The Chris Botti residency may have wrapped, but the energy at the SFJAZZ Center is only heating up. This weekend, we transition from cinematic trumpet tones to a high-octane mix of Brazilian mastery, modern jazz heavyweights, and a community-driven sonic takeover.

Here are the three shows you shouldn't miss at SFJAZZ for the weekend of January 16–18.

1. Hamilton de Holanda Trio

• When: Friday, January 16 

• Showtime: 7:30 PM 

• Where: Miner Auditorium 

• Ticket Link: www.sfjazz.org

• The Vibe: Brazilian Virtuosity. Making his highly anticipated SFJAZZ debut, Hamilton de Holanda is the undisputed king of the 10-string bandolin. Expect a masterclass in melodic improvisation as he delivers flashing, exquisitely crafted lines that bridge traditional Brazilian sounds with contemporary jazz.

2. Melissa Aldana / Taylor Eigsti

• When: Saturday, January 17 

• Showtime: 7:30 PM 

• Where: Miner Auditorium 

• Ticket Link: www.sfjazz.org

• The Vibe: Modern Masters Double-Bill. This is a heavyweight pairing of two of the music's most acclaimed instrumentalists. Saxophonist Melissa Aldana brings the visionary sounds of her latest Blue Note release, Echoes of the Inner Prophet, while Bay Area native and virtuoso pianist Taylor Eigsti performs music from his 2025 GRAMMY-winning album, Plot Armor.

3. SMARTBOMB x SFJAZZ Community Open House

• When: Sunday, January 18 

• Showtime: 4:00 PM 

• Where: Miner Auditorium & Joe Henderson Lab 

• Ticket Link: www.sfjazz.org

• The Vibe: The Sonic Future. The second Sunday SMARTBOMB takeover is a multi-room experience that pulses with the energy of the next generation. Catch alto saxophonist Braxton Cook with the acclaimed Kiefer Trio in the main hall, then head to the Lab for an immersive solo set by composer and saxophonist Josh Johnson.

Plan your weekend and keep jazz alive in the 415.