Playing Jazz Under the Stars at Brewery Ardennes

Brewery Ardennes in Geneva, NY, offers an idyllic escape, nestled in the Finger Lakes region and serving a unique combination of Belgian-style beers and farm-to-table cuisine. As a musician, playing at this serene, picturesque venue has provided me with some of my most memorable performances. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a live music lover, Brewery Ardennes provides an inviting atmosphere for guests of all ages. I’ve been fortunate to perform here multiple times, and in this blog, I’ll share my personal experiences, alongside a detailed look at what makes Brewery Ardennes a special place.

The Setting: A Blend of Belgian Tradition and Finger Lakes Charm

Brewery Ardennes is situated on a 135-acre property, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Modeled after traditional Belgian breweries, the venue is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s an immersive experience. The brewing operations are centered around small-batch, Belgian-style beers that are crafted with precision and care. The scenic grounds feature outdoor seating areas, a spacious beer garden, and even a charming farm-like atmosphere with a mix of green fields and rustic architecture.

What stands out about Brewery Ardennes is the attention to detail in its design and the dedication to creating a relaxing atmosphere. The venue is family-friendly, and their outdoor area is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a meal or beverage while soaking in nature. They also regularly host events, including beer-tasting sessions and live music performances, which makes it a lively yet serene spot for gatherings of all kinds.

Playing at Brewery Ardennes: A Memorable Experience

First Performance: Geneva Jazz Fest with Matrix Duo

My first time playing at Brewery Ardennes was during the inaugural Geneva Jazz Fest, where I performed with Matrix Duo, featuring Michele Gordon on flute. The venue provided a beautiful outdoor stage, surrounded by fields and shaded under the open sky, creating an intimate yet expansive atmosphere for the festival crowd. Playing in such an environment brings its own magic—whether it’s the natural acoustics or the quiet moments between songs, the space amplifies the connection between the musicians and the audience.

One standout moment from that performance was playing “Mambo Delicioso,” an original composition from my album What Are the Odds? The rhythmic blend of Latin jazz resonated perfectly with the ambiance of Brewery Ardennes, where people were enjoying their Belgian beers and locally sourced food while listening to live music. You can check out a clip of that performance here: Mambo Delicioso. It was rewarding to see the audience so engaged in a venue that appreciates the arts.

Second Performance: Bass with the Art Lillard Trio

I returned to Brewery Ardennes this past summer, performing with the Art Lillard Trio. This gig was a unique one for me because I was playing bass, which offered me a different perspective and challenge compared to my usual role as a guitarist. The Trio featured Bruce Arnold on guitar, and it was a delight to share the stage with such seasoned musicians. The crowd was in for a treat that day, with classic jazz standards filling the air.

One of my favorite parts of that evening was soloing on “The Girl from Ipanema.” It was one of those moments where everything aligned—the weather, the vibe, and the music. You can see a clip of that performance here: Girl from Ipanema. The relaxed yet attentive crowd at Brewery Ardennes made it a special gig, one where you could tell people were truly there to appreciate the music while enjoying their evening outdoors.

Third Performance: Jazz Guitar Duo with Drew Serafini

My third time performing at Brewery Ardennes was in a jazz guitar duo with Drew Serafini, another seasoned musician who has played at the venue multiple times. This time, we performed some of my original works, including “Kalahari Trek,” which is from my album Sketches. This venue allows for creative freedom, and I always feel encouraged to explore new territories in my music when performing there. You can listen to a clip of “Kalahari Trek” here: Kalahari Trek.

The intimate setting of a guitar duo allowed for more nuanced and delicate playing, and it felt like the perfect complement to the surroundings. Brewery Ardennes offers an inviting environment where both musicians and the audience feel a connection—whether it’s through a jazz standard or a contemporary original composition. Drew and I enjoyed improvising and engaging with the crowd, who responded warmly after every song. It was a performance that felt truly organic and relaxed, adding to the overall ambiance of the venue.

Why Brewery Ardennes is Special for Events and Live Music

Brewery Ardennes isn’t just about the beer or food; it’s about creating an experience that integrates culture, craft, and community. Here are a few reasons why this venue stands out, both as a place to visit and as a place to perform:

1. Belgian-Style Brews with a Local Twist

The Belgian-inspired brews at Brewery Ardennes are crafted with care and precision. With offerings like their signature Ardennes Table Beer, Abbey-style Dubbel, and a selection of unique seasonal brews, they cater to both connoisseurs and casual beer drinkers alike. Pairing their beers with farm-to-table food enhances the entire experience, making it a perfect stop for anyone who appreciates high-quality local craftsmanship.

2. Stunning Outdoor and Indoor Spaces

Whether you’re enjoying a meal at the picnic tables near the beer garden or sitting in the elegant taproom, Brewery Ardennes offers a variety of seating options for all preferences. Their outdoor area is particularly beautiful in the summer months, with picnic tables, scenic fields, and even a haystack that adds to the rustic charm. Performing in this environment is a pleasure, as the natural beauty and relaxed setting enhance the overall experience for both the audience and the musicians.

3. Family and Pet-Friendly

Brewery Ardennes is an inclusive space that caters to everyone. With families often attending and pets allowed in the outdoor areas, it creates a warm, welcoming environment for guests of all ages. As a musician, this diversity in the crowd adds to the dynamic of the performance—it’s a place where everyone feels at ease, and the music becomes part of the backdrop for laughter, conversation, and shared moments.

4. Community-Focused Events

Brewery Ardennes is dedicated to hosting events that bring the community together. Whether it’s their annual Geneva Jazz Fest or a local beer tasting, there’s always something happening to draw in locals and visitors alike. As a performer, being part of these events is rewarding because you know you’re contributing to the culture and vibrancy of the Finger Lakes region.

Conclusion: A Unique Performance Experience

Brewery Ardennes in Geneva is more than just a venue—it’s a destination that encapsulates the beauty of the Finger Lakes, the craftsmanship of Belgian-style brewing, and the richness of live music. Each of my performances here has been a unique and memorable experience, whether playing with Matrix Duo, the Art Lillard Trio, or in a jazz guitar duo. The combination of scenic views, attentive audiences, and high-quality food and drinks makes this one of my favorite venues to perform at.

If you’re in the Geneva area, I highly recommend visiting Brewery Ardennes, whether it’s for a beer tasting, a meal, or to catch some live music. For musicians, it’s an ideal venue to showcase your work in a setting that values creativity and community. I look forward to many more performances here, and I hope you’ll join me for one of them soon!