Purchase tickets at the door or online through Eventbrite.com
Candle in the Wind
On Saturday, June 14th, the Johnstown-based jazz ensemble Candle in the Wind will make their debut performance at the Venue of Merging Arts intimate listening room, Club VOMA.
Formed in 1990, the core lineup of Candle in the Wind has played together since 1979, entertaining at jazz festivals, corporate events, private parties and more. The current edition of the group includes Ron Black on lead vocals, Tom Romanak on drums, Rich Kingera on keyboards and vocals, Tim Baacke on bass and vocals, Joe Tirpek on guitar, and Greg Maiocco on woodwinds and back-up vocals.
Candle in the Wind presents a variety of smooth-sounding jazz and jazz-related sounds; including numbers from Dave Brubeck, Duke Ellington, Cannonball Adderley, Herbie Hancock, George Gershwin, Hoagy Carmichael, Van Morrison, Bill Withers, Al Jarreau, Sting and more. These six musicians demonstrate excellent skills and a lot of enthusiasm, elevating their jazz into total musical excitement.
VOMA Folk/Bluegrass Series Presents: THE MIKE MITCHELL BAND
VOMA welcomes back Mike Mitchell, a contemporary bluegrass force delivering effortless vocals, deeply resonant songwriting, and virtuosic fiddling.
Influenced by legends like 70’s J.D Crowe and The New South, Tony Rice, and Sam Bush, Mike has carved his own distinctive sound, evidenced by his impressive discography. His album "Small Town" debuted at #2 on Billboard, and "Fathers & Sons" dominated the Bluegrass Unlimited charts for over a year, spawning three #1 singles. Mike’s band includes his son James Michael Mitchell on guitar and fiddle, Jarod Houseman, upright bass and Sydney Christian on mandolin and vocals
This summer, brace yourself for "Love Songs, Torch & Bluegrass," a highly anticipated album produced by the multi-award-winning Opry star, Darin Aldridge. Mike's electrifying live shows are renowned for their high energy and chart-topping bluegrass and fiddle tunes, earning him the description "Original Music with a Traditional Flavor" from Tim White of Song Of The Mountains.
Beyond the stage, Mike is a nationally recognized educator, leading engaging workshops that empower musicians. He also heads the influential IBMA Songwriters Committee and Mentorship Program, fostering the next generation of bluegrass talent.
From his early Suzuki violin days to his current collaborations with bluegrass icons like Wyatt Rice, Jarrod Walker, Darin Aldridge, Mark Schatz and Sammy Shelor, Mike Mitchell has dedicated his life to mastering his craft. Whether tearing it up on stage or sharing his passion through teaching, Mike brings an undeniable energy and commitment to every note. Catch him on tour and experience the magic!
Hear a sample: https://www.mikemitchellmusic.com/music
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$15 General Admission - $12 VOMA VIP or Student ID
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
Advance tickets available at EventBrite
Christopher Mark Jones and The Roots Ensemble
Christopher Mark Jones is a down-home world-traveled song artist drawing from folk, country, rock, blues and jazz for his folk-rock meditations, which now include seven albums. Adopting diverse points-of-view to narrate and critique life and love in uncertain times, he invites listeners to think, feel and tap their feet. Between careers as a basketball player and French professor, Jones busked in Paris, toured the UK, Denmark, and Holland, and played New England clubs. Now based in Pittsburgh, he plays regionally in formats varying from solo to full band. The Roots Ensemble is Christopher’s full-band performance group, including Dave Gillespie (electric and acoustic guitars and vocals), Christopher’s cousin and a superb multi-instrumentalist, singer and writer in his own right, Eric George (drums and percussion) the house drummer and music director for Acousticafé at Mr. Small’s Funhouse, as well as a frequent session musician, and Mark Perna (electric and upright bass), a Pittsburgh jazz scene regular.
Pittsburgh's DREAM THE HEAVY with opening act: Dave Distefano & TK Mundok
Dream the Heavy.
It's in the name . Atmospheric keys with ethereal and hook laden guitars set the tone for an enigmatic and soulful voice to sing, wail, and carry you into the other realms. This is the band that can deliver a studio performance that will stay on repeat and have your entire being moving with their mind blowing stage presence.
Checkout their story & Music @ https://dreamtheheavy.com/#music
Pittsburgh City Paper's Local Album of the Year “Into the Unknown” - September 2024
WYEP Featured Artist - July 2024
The Players:
Vocals: TK Mundok (Johnstown native & former frontman of Black Cat Moan)
Bass: Paul Dean Price III
Guitars: Mathias Brown
Percussion: Sully On Drums
Keys: Ryan Miller
$15 General Admission - $12 VOMA VIP or Student ID
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
Charlie Barath Blues Band
Hohner Harmonica artist and former International Blues Challenge single/duo finalist, Charlie Barath returns to VOMA with a stellar line-up of musicians joining him on the bandstand. Andrew Sherer will be handling the Guitar duties this time around, and I know that alone will put a smile on your face! The rhythm section comprised of Joe Quinlan on Upright Bass, coupled with Bert Lerini behind the Drums, will surely get the room jumping!
Admission: $15 (VIP Members $12) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
Newport RI’s Tyler-James Kelly with “Bedford’s poet laureate,” Coltt Winter Lepley
Tyler-James Kelly makes 1970s-inspired country music for the modern world. That sound reaches a new peak with Dream River, Kelly's full-length solo debut. Hailed by Rolling Stone as a "deft chicken-pickin' guitarist" with a "head-turner" live show, Tyler-James Kelly sees Dream River as more than just an introduction to his solo career with his music taking its cues from the American roots music that Kelly first discovered in childhood. A guitarist since the age of 10, he grew up listening to honky-tonk pickers and top-shelf songwriters like Hank Williams, Jerry Reed, Robert Johnson, George Jones, and Jim Croce. He also developed a taste for the storytellers like Kris Kristofferson, Merle Haggard, Don Williams, and Guy Clark.
Listen to a sample: https://www.tylerjameskelly.com/music
Coltt Winter Lepley is an Appalachian folksinger/songwriter from Bedford, Pennsylvania. Coltt’s a published poet, author, folklorist, and former racecar driver. Referred to as “Bedford’s poet laureate,” Coltt’s songs weave traditional folk elements with the literary storytelling. Coltt averages nearly 200 shows year across the country from Wyoming to Massachusetts to Tennessee.
Listen to a sample:https://www.colttwinterlepley.com/music
A limited number of advanced reserved seats are available on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../countryfolk-artist-tyler...
Admission: $12 (VIP Members $10) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
Jazz with Pittsburgh's Don Aliquo Quartet
Enjoy the smooth jazz sound of The Don Aliquo Quartet with Don Aliquo on saxophone, Mark Perna, bass, Kevin Moore, keys and Vince Taglieri on drums.
Don Aliquo is a true jazz legend. He has played all major clubs, show venues and festivals in the Pittsburgh area, recorded for “Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood” TV program, was a guest soloist with River City Brass Band, performed at Heinz Hall and Benedum Center with Tony Bennet, Lena Horne, Mel Torme, Johnnie Mathis and many other stars. He has also performed with many legendary jazz and big band greats. Check out Don Aliquo Quartet Video: https://youtu.be/sKVyYXFy7h8
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$10 General Admission - $8 VOMA VIP or Student ID (all ages welcome)
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
Neon Belly
A New Johnstown band makes their debut @ VOMA!!!
Neon Belly consists of Randy Penrod and Elias Ghantous; formerly of Afro N’at, with Hayden Jeffreys and brothers Nathan & Dylan Jackson; formerly of The Platelets.
Admission: $10 (VIP Members $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
Jimmy Adler Blues Band
Looking for some great entertainment? The Venue of Merging Arts Blues Gathering is featuring The Jimmy Adler Blues Band in their intimate listening room, Club VOMA.
Jimmy Adler is regarded as one of Pittsburgh’s best blues guitar performers and is no stranger to Johnstown, having performed at past Flood City Music Festivals and Cambria City Ethnic Fest Block Parties on Third Ave as well as this past shows at VOMA. Jimmy has played many styles that are always steeped in the blues, yet always stamped with his unmistakable touch; gritty, soulful, and sweet. He will be joined by equally impressive Pittsburgh blues musicians, Kenny Kellner on drums, Bob Insko on upright bass, and Phil Brontz on saxophone.
Admission: $15 (VIP Members $12) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
The Moore Brothers
This talented family of musicians featuring Bo, Brian, Jake, Tucker & more will be serving up some amazing music. You don’t want to miss these guys!
Admission: $10 (VIP Members $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
Jazz with Pittsburgh's Don Aliquo Quartet and Special Guest vocalist Phat Man Dee
Enjoy the smooth jazz sound of The Don Aliquo Quartet with Don Aliquo on saxophone, Mark Perna, bass, Kevin Moore, keys and Vince Taglieri on drums.
Don Aliquo is a true jazz legend. He has played all major clubs, show venues and festivals in the Pittsburgh area, recorded for “Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood” TV program, was a guest soloist with River City Brass Band, performed at Heinz Hall and Benedum Center with Tony Bennet, Lena Horne, Mel Torme, Johnnie Mathis and many other stars. He has also performed with many legendary jazz and big band greats. Check out Don Aliquo Quartet Video: https://youtu.be/sKVyYXFy7h8
Phat Man Dee; a cosmic jazz cabaret vocalist, bandleader, events producer, videographer, poet, freelance sideshow marvel, music educator, occasional cellist, and social justice agitatrix. She regularly appears with her jazz group “The Cultural District”. She was voted #1 Best Local Jazz Act in the Best of Pittsburgh City Paper Reader's Poll of 2021.
For a sample of her music: https://phatmandeemusic.com/music
Admission: $10 (VIP Members $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
VOMA Folk/Bluegrass Series Presents: Robin Chambers and Bjorn Jacobsen
An acoustic Central PA power duo performing original, hot delta gypsy- grass and dark folk rhapsodies with a raw intensity of vocals and blazing guitar work by Bjorn Jacobsen, entwined by the emotional and fiery element of Robin Chambers' violin.
This duo has played together in the Harrisburg/Lancaster area for several years and thrilled the audience in their Johnstown debut at VOMA last April.
Mo Taters and the Gravy Train
This Western Swing and Vintage Country Music band is led by Honer Harmonica Master Charlie Barath on Lead Vocals and just the right amount of Harmonica. Pete Freeman’s mastery of the Pedal Steel is a big part of this band’s sound, as is the truly amazing Guitar work of Donnie Bell. The Gravy Train also boasts a stellar rhythm section made up of the one-and-only “Taco” on Bass Guitar, and Bert Lerini in the driver’s seat on Drums.
So keep your eyes open for Moe Taters, and don’t miss a chance to catch The Gravy Train!
Admission: $15 (VIP Members $12) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm

WHO’S YOUR DADDY Reunion Show with special guest THE FOUNDRY
Welcome back to Who’s Your Daddy, one of Johnstown’s best rock-n-roll blues bands featuring, Gene Sweeney, guitar & vocals, Rick Napolitan, bass & vocals and Ken Deeter, drums & vocals. Joining Who’s Your Daddy will be “Cajun” Norm Chenoweth and Steve Spack of The Foundry.
Admission: $10 (VIP Members/Students $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm

India Ramey w/ Screech Owl
VOMA will be hosting Nashville's India Ramey and her band on her first visit to Johnstown. Johnstown's own Screech Owl will open the night warming up the stage for her.
Doors at 7:00
Music at 7:30
Tickets = $15
$12 for VIP Members
BYOB with proper ID
The Wild Hymns
Originating from central Pennsylvania, The Wild Hymns weave a multifaceted soundscape of dreamy folk-pop, Americana, and mellow rock & roll.
Initially a solo endeavor by singer-songwriter, Megan Woodland Donley Hewitt, the magic of the project quickly expanded into a more collaborative affair with her husband, guitarist Jeff Hewitt, and full band, adding the final touches to this gorgeous atmosphere of sound.
Following their 2014 self-titled debut album, The Wild Hymns toured regionally and nationally, building a solid following. They released two subsequent albums in 2016 and 2018, ever-evolving in sound and style. 2022 proved to be a big year for The Wild Hymns, releasing their boldest collection of dreamy indie rock, a full length album titled - Eternal Return.
Listen to a sample of their music: https://www.thewildhymns.com/music
Admission: $12 (VIP Members/Students $10) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
VOMA Folk/Bluegrass series welcomes back West Virginia Bluegrass with BLUE DIGGITY
Blue Diggity is a nationally touring Bluegrass band based in Wheeling, West Virginia. As a band, Blue Diggity has played places such as the Pennyroyal Operahouse in Fairview, OH, the Sterling Bluegrass Jamboree in Mt. Sterling, OH, the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair in Ripley, WV, the Clifton Opera House in Clifton, OH, the Lewis County Bluegrass Festival in Anamede, WV, the 7 Mile Bluegrass Festival, the NIBA Bluegrass Festival, the AFBA Bluegrass Festival, and many more. Between their passionate vocal leads, tight harmonies, and powerful instrumental arrangements, Blue Diggity generates a dynamic presence on stage that is sure to engage spectators at any venue or event.
Listen to Blue Diggity: https://www.youtube.com/@bluediggity
Admission: $15 (VIP/Student $12) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7:00pm Music @ 7:30pm
JAZZ IN YOUR FACE Mardi Gras show
Join us in VOMA’s Gallery to celebrate Fat Tuesday with New Orleans style Jazz…unplugged…just like it’s performed in the French Quarter for Mardi Gras! This special show features Johnstown jazz drummer Mike Bodolosky and friends in the main floor Gallery.
The VOMA kitchen will be serving authentic New Orleans Shrimp Po Boy sandwiches and Jambalaya for this special event (Advance food orders appreciated: 814-533-9616).
JAZZ with Laura Ferguson & Friends
Laura Ferguson is an associate professor of music at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a frequent clinician for the International Association of Jazz Educator and has presented workshops and guest lectures throughout the country. A former Down-Beat award winner for “Best Collegiate Vocal Jazz Recording”, she continues to perform regularly in the area with Ferguson and Friends jazz combo.
Admission: $10 (VIP Members/Students $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
SOUP SALE
SOUP SALE
Take-out only
Delicious homemade Soups Only $9/quart
- Ham Pot Pie (Homemade noodles)
-Ham & Bean
- Chicken Noodle
- Italian Tomato Rice
Please order by Wednesday February 26th by calling 814-536-7952.
Pickup Noon – 6pm Saturday March 1st
@ VOMA 305 Chestnut St.
Proceeds benefit VOMA’s programming and renovations
Jazz with Pittsburgh's Don Aliquo Quartet
POSTPONED due to inclement weather!
Enjoy the smooth jazz sound of The Don Aliquo Quartet with Don Aliquo on saxophone, Mark Perna, bass, Kevin Moore, keys and Vince Taglieri on drums.
Don Aliquo is a true jazz legend. He has played all major clubs, show venues and festivals in the Pittsburgh area, recorded for “Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood” TV program, was a guest soloist with River City Brass Band, performed at Heinz Hall and Benedum Center with Tony Bennet, Lena Horne, Mel Torme, Johnnie Mathis and many other stars. He has also performed with many legendary jazz and big band greats. Check out Don Aliquo Quartet Video: https://youtu.be/sKVyYXFy7h8
Admission: $10 (VIP Members $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm
Cajun Norm Presents: The Foundry with opening act, Ezekiel Cherubim
The Foundry features Gene Sweeney, Guitar, S”Cajun”Norm Chennowith, Keys, Steve Spack, Bass and Tom Gajewski on Drums.
Opening act: Ezekiel's Cherubim featuring Clint Sparling and Ron Jezeskie of The Platelets.
Admission: $10 (VIP/Student $8) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7:00pm Music @ 7:30pm
Pgh JAZZ-The Mark Perna Trio
Enjoy the smooth jazz sound of THE MARK PERNA TRIO featuring Mark Perna, bass, Joe DeFazio, keys and Vince Taglieri on drums.
Don Aliquo has a family commitment in Pittsburgh and will not be available however, this very talented band will be sure to entertain you.
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$10 General Admission - $8 VOMA VIP or Student ID (all ages welcome)
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
West Virginia Bluegrass Band Blue Diggity With special guest: Tim Wetmiller
Blue Diggity is a nationally touring Bluegrass band based in Wheeling, West Virginia. As a band, Blue Diggity has played places such as the Pennyroyal Operahouse in Fairview, OH, the Sterling Bluegrass Jamboree in Mt. Sterling, OH, the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair in Ripley, WV, the Clifton Opera House in Clifton, OH, the Lewis County Bluegrass Festival in Anamede, WV, the 7 Mile Bluegrass Festival, the NIBA Bluegrass Festival, the AFBA Bluegrass Festival, and many more. Between their passionate vocal leads, tight harmonies, and powerful instrumental arrangements, Blue Diggity generates a dynamic presence on stage that is sure to engage spectators at any venue or event.
The band will be joined by Tim Wetmiller who is one of the most gifted and active musicians in Seattle playing jazz, gypsy swing, bluegrass, Latin, Cuban and more.
Listen to Blue Diggity: https://www.youtube.com/@bluediggity
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$15 General Admission - $12 VOMA VIP or Student ID (all ages welcome)
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
Don Aliquo Jazz Quartet with vocalist Phat Mandee
SAT Dec. 21st 7:30pm VOMA Jazz Series Presents:
The Don Aliquo Quartet with guest Singer/Songwriter Phat Man Dee
Enjoy the smooth jazz sound of The Don Aliquo Quartet with Don Aliquo on saxophone, Mark Perna, bass, Kevin Moore, keys and John Schmidt on drums.
Don Aliquo is a true jazz legend. He has played all major clubs, show venues and festivals in the Pittsburgh area, recorded for “Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood” TV program, was a guest soloist with River City Brass Band, performed at Heinz Hall and Benedum Center with Tony Bennet, Lena Horne, Mel Torme, Johnnie Mathis and many other stars. He has also performed with many legendary jazz and big band greats. Check out Don Aliquo Quartet Video: https://youtu.be/sKVyYXFy7h8.
Phat Man Dee; a cosmic jazz cabaret vocalist, bandleader, events producer, videographer, poet, freelance sideshow marvel, music educator, occasional cellist, and social justice agitatrix. She regularly appears with her jazz group “The Cultural District”. She was voted #1 Best Local Jazz Act in the Best of Pittsburgh City Paper Reader's Poll of 2021. For a sample of her music: https://phatmandeemusic.com/music
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$10 General Admission - $8 VOMA VIP or Student ID (all ages welcome)
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
Wanderlost
Wanderlost is made up of four local music teachers: Ferndale’s Dustin Rainey (piano/vocals), Cambria Heights Mike Kokus (bass/vocals), Indiana’s Jason Olear (drums), and Westmont’s Daniel Hutton (sax/flute/synth/vocals). The band has been performing together since 2021 throughout Western Pennsylvania. This piano pop/rock quartet plays wonderful originals as well as covers and is known for their jazz/funk-inspired horn lines, tight vocal harmonies, and infectious grooves.
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$10 General Admission - $8 VOMA VIP or Student ID (all ages welcome)
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
The RENEGADES
THE RENEGADES
50’s & 60’s Rock & Roll
The original Renegades were a band made up of Cambria City musicians in the 1960’s. The majority of the original members have gotten back together and will be playing some old time Rock and Roll by your favorite artists from the 1950’s & 1960’s. Members of the band include: Jim Brown, Joe Evans, Ed Solecki, Harv Rawlins Joe Rizzo & Bill Varner.
Doors at 7pm - Music at 7:30pm
$10 General Admission - $8 VOMA VIP or Student ID (all ages welcome)
BYOB is welcome with proper I.D
Mo Taters and the Gravy Train
Pittsburgh’s western swing & classic country band Mo Taters and the Gravy Train
Pittsburgh Honer Harmonica Master, Charlie Barath (aka: Moe Taters) is bringing his latest project to Club VOMA!
Born as a “one-off” project for a “one-time” event, Moe Taters and The Gravy Train turned out to be so
much fun for the five musicians involved that they decided to let it roll. In fact, immediately upon stepping
off the bandstand at that first show, each member excitedly asked, “So when’s the next gig?”
And so it began.
This talented group of musicians brings you some of the best Western Swing and Vintage Country Music
around, coupled with some fun and catchy originals of their own, all guaranteed to get your boots moving.
The band is led by Charlie Barath on Lead Vocals and just the right amount of Harmonica. Pete Freeman’s
mastery of the Pedal Steel is a big part of this band’s sound, as is the truly amazing Guitar work of Donnie
Bell. The Gravy Train also boasts a stellar rhythm section made up of the one-and-only “Taco” on Bass
Guitar, and Bert Lerini in the driver’s seat on Drums.
So keep your eyes open for Moe Taters, and don’t miss a chance to catch The Gravy Train!
Admission: $15 (VIP Members/Student $12) BYOB (21+)
Doors @ 7pm Music @ 7:30pm