CIMprovise

The Cleveland Institute of Music, a staunchly classical conservatory, outsources even the most innocuous modern music to other institutions. Enter CIMprovise, a student jazz combo featuring Gabe Novak on keys, Joel Negus on upright bass, and Evan Mitchell on drums. Since August, the group has played a monthly Thursday night gig at the Happy Dog at the Euclid Tavern. Warm yourself on a cold winter’s evening by the fire of these budding musicians’ incredible versatility. They’ll play popular favorites as well as tunes for the true hepcats. (Bethany Kaufman)