Hendrik Meurkens Quartet at The Side Door Jazz Club
Hendrik Meurkens Quartet at The Side Door Jazz Club brings one of the world’s most distinctive jazz artists to Old Lyme on Friday, July 24, for an evening of exceptional musicianship featuring both the chromatic harmonica and vibraphone. Joined by pianist Steve Ash, bassist Joe Fitzgerald, and drummer Ben Bilello, Meurkens performs an intimate concert showcasing a career that spans American jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and European influences.
Widely regarded as the most important jazz harmonica player since the legendary Toots Thielemans, Meurkens has earned international acclaim for his expressive playing and remarkable versatility. Equally accomplished on vibraphone, his performances blend straight-ahead jazz with the rich sounds of Brazilian samba, bossa nova, and choro, creating a style that is instantly recognizable and deeply engaging.
Event Details
Event: Hendrik Meurkens Quartet
Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
Time: 8:00-10:00 p.m.
Doors Open: 7:15 p.m.
Venue: The Side Door Jazz Club
Address: 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Admission: Reserved seating
Age: All ages
Parking: Free
Performers
- Hendrik Meurkens – Harmonica & Vibraphone
- Steve Ash – Piano
- Joe Fitzgerald – Bass
- Ben Bilello – Drums
About Hendrik Meurkens
Born in Hamburg, Germany, Hendrik Meurkens first fell in love with jazz after hearing the vibraphone playing of Lionel Hampton on a Benny Goodman recording. A few years later, discovering Toots Thielemans inspired him to master the chromatic harmonica, setting him on a path that would make him one of the instrument’s leading voices.
After studying at Berklee College of Music, Meurkens immersed himself in Brazilian music while living in Rio de Janeiro, where the sounds of samba, bossa nova, and choro became a lasting influence on his artistry. He later moved to New York, signed with Concord Records, and has released more than 15 acclaimed albums while performing at leading jazz festivals and clubs around the world.
His warm harmonica tone and swinging vibraphone style have earned praise from critics and fellow musicians alike, making every performance a unique blend of technical brilliance and emotional expression.
About The Side Door Jazz Club
Located inside the historic Old Lyme Inn, The Side Door Jazz Club is one of New England’s premier listening rooms, presenting internationally recognized jazz artists in an intimate setting designed for exceptional live performances. Guests dining at the Old Lyme Inn before the show receive a 10% discount on dinner.
Why Attend
Hendrik Meurkens is one of the few artists equally celebrated for mastery of two instruments, bringing a distinctive sound that blends classic jazz with Brazilian influences. Combined with the intimate atmosphere of The Side Door, this concert offers a rare opportunity to experience an internationally acclaimed performer up close.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased by clicking the Event Ticketing link at the bottom of this page.
More Information
Additional event information is available by clicking the Event Website link at the bottom of this page.
