Sometimes a concert calendar throws you a curveball, and the people behind the scenes find a way to keep the music going.

That is the story behind the October 15 performance at Rome City Auditorium.

The Andy Nevala Quartet will perform Thursday, October 15, at 7 p.m., taking the place of the cabaret concert originally scheduled to feature Doront’e Evans.

Evans became ill and requested a postponement.

Within an hour, the quartet agreed to step in.

A quick change with a familiar face

Rome listeners may already know Nevala as the pianist with the Clock Tower Jazz Ensemble.

He is also director of jazz studies at Jacksonville State University, where his work includes leading jazz ensembles, overseeing the combo program and teaching jazz piano.

His experience reaches well beyond the classroom, with professional touring, arranging and recording work across a wide musical landscape.

That makes him a welcome musician to have available when a concert series suddenly needs a new plan.

The Party comes with its own musical credentials

Nevala’s 2025 album, El Rumbón (The Party), explores Latin and Afro-Cuban jazz through fresh arrangements and rhythmic interplay.

The recording includes interpretations of music associated with Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock and other familiar names.

It also spent six months on the charts, giving curious listeners another reason to get acquainted with the quartet.

The album offers a useful introduction to Nevala’s musical approach, though a concert program is its own experience.

Keep the date, welcome the quartet

If October 15 is already circled on your calendar, keep it there and note the change in performers.

The previously advertised Doront’e Evans cabaret is postponed; the quartet is the replacement for this evening.

An unexpected change can still produce a very good night of music, particularly when experienced performers are willing to help keep a local stage active.

We wish Evans a quick recovery and look forward to hearing about his rescheduled appearance.

In the meantime, Rome has a jazz evening to anticipate at 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 15.

Sometimes the best response to a change of plans is simply to pull up a chair and listen.