Loston Harris Trio

One of New York's most beloved pianists and vocalists brings his trio to The Side Door for an unforgettable evening

Loston Harris is a singular force in the world of jazz — a pianist whose playing has been described as "percussive" and "incredibly fluid," and a vocalist whose delivery is unmistakably "suave." His musical journey began with a chance encounter with Harry Connick Jr. at the First Thelonious Monk Jazz Competition in Washington, D.C., who led Harris to study with his own mentor, Ellis Marsalis — who promptly encouraged the young percussionist to switch to piano. The rest, as they say, is history.

Harris completed a remarkable 22-year residency at The Carlyle Hotel's legendary Bemelmans Bar in New York City — a room that has hosted Bobby Short, Eartha Kitt, Elaine Stritch, and John Pizzarelli — cementing his place among the great keepers of the jazz and cabaret tradition. He has performed and toured with Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, appeared on the PBS special "Portraits in Blue" with Marcus Roberts, and has been featured at celebrity events alongside John Mayer, Diana Krall, and Bette Midler. He was featured as himself in the 2005 film Little Manhattan, whose lead character calls him "the best singer in New York." Most memorably, Sir Paul McCartney once sat in with him and sang "The Very Thought of You."

Deeply rooted in the Great American Songbook, Harris blends traditional jazz, gospel, and blues with his own distinctive voice — bringing warmth, joy, and effortless swing to every room he plays. This is a rare opportunity to experience one of New York's finest in an intimate setting.

The Side Door Jazz Club is a dedicated jazz listening room located inside the historic Old Lyme Inn, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT. Tickets are reserved seating. Guests dining at the Old Lyme Inn prior to the show receive 10% off their dinner bill.