Brown Bag Concert Series: Fall 2025

Free and Open to the Public

The Brown Bag Concert Series, presented by Mechanics Hall and 90.5 FM WICN, has been a beloved tradition in Worcester since 1983. These hour-long concerts by acclaimed regional and national performers are held in the Great Hall on select Wednesdays from noon to 1pm. Bring your own “brown bag” lunch, and enjoy wonderful music while eating your lunch! Cabaret-style seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. All concerts are free, open to the public, and subject to change.

The accessible entrance to Mechanics Hall is located on Waldo Street. Elevators are located in the ground-floor lobby and provide access to the second and third floors. Please note, there is no elevator access to the balcony. All concerts take place in the Great Hall on the third floor. If you need assistance, please contact Mechanics Hall by calling 508-752-5608.

Accessibility

Whenever possible, Brown Bag Concerts are also broadcast live on WICN 90.5FM, and streamed live on WICN.org.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Tickets: Free -- Open to the Public
Time: Doors 11:30am | Show 12:00pm
Audience: All Ages

Fall 2025 Schedule

November 12
THE DAN MORETTI QUARTET

With a career spanning decades, Moretti has performed with legends like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Robert Plant. Now, he brings that same talent to Mechanics Hall for an unforgettable midday escape. Whether you’re a long-time jazz fan or new to the genre, this concert promises something special for everyone.

November 19
2SLICK

The captivating sound of trombones takes center stage in this extraordinary jazz ensemble. Featuring the talents of trombonists Steve Piermarini and Wayne Branco, their repertoire showcases the timeless compositions of jazz legends JJ Johnson and Kai Winding, whose innovative trombone duets revolutionized the genre

December 3
Jazz Streams

Jazz Streams features an accomplished lineup of New England jazz veterans, including trombonist Rich Ardizzone, a classically trained performer experienced in Latin jazz, big bands, and diverse ensembles; guitarist Rich Falco, a seasoned performer, educator, and jazz historian with international tours, concert productions, and numerous accolades; bassist Jerry Wilfong, an active Boston-area musician who has collaborated widely and recorded extensively; and drummer Bill MacGillivray, a longtime Worcester music community fixture known for his work in jazz, rock, and blues as well as his dedication to music education.

December 10
U.S. Navy Band Northeast with New England Conservatory Symphonic Winds and Chamber Singers

A festive holiday concert the whole family will love. More information coming soon!

Brown Bag Concert Series Archive

Recognizing the historical significance of nearly 40 years of the Brown Bag Concert Series, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) has documented the history of the series in its Jazz History Database. The database includes information from 1989-2008.

“Studio 3,” a half-hour music and interview television program featuring some of the best jazz groups in New England and beyond, was taped between 1993 and 2000 before live audiences in the studios of WGMC-TV3 or on location, including Brown Bag concerts at Mechanics Hall. All shows were produced and hosted by jazz vocalist Toni Ballard, with production support from Greater Media Cable, and aired from 1993 to 2003 on WGMC-TV3. The WPI Jazz History Database includes Studio 3 videos.

» JAZZ HISTORY DATABASE