I assembled what would become the Big Phat Band in mid-1999 with the intention of recording a record and nothing more. I wanted to document the music I was writing for the big band genre, but no way did I want to hassle with doing live gigs and all the logistical problems and phone calls and…no way. But around the time of the release we got a call to play a concert at my alma mater Cal State University Northridge. I remember some of the guys had doubts we could even get through a whole concert of the charts I had written. But we did, and not only did the audience love it, we had a blast. For a bunch of session musicians, playing for a live audience again was intoxicating. It reminded me of why I started playing music in the first place, because the life of a session musician can get to be fairly isolated. You rehearse the cue, record the cue and move on to the next, and you don’t hear it again until the film comes out months later. But here you had a live audience, reacting in real time! Not only reacting but interacting with the musicians! So, with that fun experience resonating in my mind, I started to dip my toe into the water and attempt to get some gigs for the band. Which was easier said than done. But little by little we built the organization and the band slowly started to congeal and get a sound of its own, a sound based on the talents of these fine musicians and whatever assets I could bring to my charts.
—Gordon Goodwin
Ages 8+
BLUE NOTE NAPA is located on the first floor of the Historic Napa Valley Opera House at 1030 Main St. We are an intimate 144-seat jazz club and restaurant, where you can enjoy performances of world renowned and local Bay Area artists alike. We offer a full menu with market-driven cuisine, as well as an elegant wine and cocktail list. Enjoy fantastic main courses, sharing plates, and desserts while you take in a show.
All ticket prices are based on per person. Dinner is served in all sections. Your ticket is your dining reservation. Separate reservations are not needed.
“Sapphire” Booth Seating:
Booth seating for parties of 4, 5- 6 persons: Our premier level of seating! Booths are only sold as four, five or six and are not available as singles or pairs. 1st come, 1st seated. You will be seated when you arrive. (Seating is dark blue color on map)
“Royal Blue” Center Table Seating:
Seating in premier center table areas in front of stage: Pairs are seated across from each other. 1st come, 1st seated (Seating is light blue on map)
Standard Side Table Seating:
Seating in side table areas left and right of center section: Pairs are seated across from each other. 1st come, 1st seated. (Seating is yellow on map)
Bar Area Ticket Seating (only patrons 21+ may sit at bar):
Great View!! Bar Chairs are tall with backs and comfy padded seats. Purse hooks too. (Bar area is pink on map).
A portion of all ticket fees goes to the historic preservation of the Napa Valley Opera House.
Tickets are the same price whether purchased in person, over the phone or online.
Dinner Menu available in all seating areas