>> If Billie Holiday and Björk had a love child, Grazyna Auguscik would be the result. Combining a thorough knowledge of traditional jazz with the sparse and ethereal qualities of traditional northern European music, this singer/composer comes to Blues Alley tonight for 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets available here. $20 + $10 food/drink minimum.

>> This Thursday, legendary pianist/keyboardist/composer George Duke begins a four night stand at Blues Alley. This gentleman has played with all the greats over the last 40 years in just about every genre of music. Sets are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are $45 + $10 food/drink minimum and must be purchased in advance.

>> On the same night but on the other side of the Potomac, another keyboardist begins a two night stand at The Birchmere. Keiko Matsui will bring her smooth/new age jazz sounds to the hall for two 7:30 p.m. sets. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. $39.50 + convenience charges.

>> Also on Thursday at Twins Jazz, Stephen Norfleet, a resident of Charlottesville, VA, brings his band to D.C. Norfleet has an impressive educational pedigree, having studied with luminaries such as Bob Mintzer and Dave Liebman while pursuing a graduate degree at the famed Manhattan School of Music. Call (202) 234-0072 for showtime and cover information.

>> Our first pick of the week takes place this Friday and Saturday at Twins Jazz with the continuation of the Reggie Workman Sculptured Sound Series. Hard charging trumpeter Charles Tolliver (pictured), who has played with many greats over his 40+ year career, brings a quartet featuring drummer Gene Jackson, bassist Dwayne Burno, and pianist Anthony Wonsy. Sets are at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tickets are available here. $27.

Image from Charles Tolliver’s website