Bill Frisell, photo by Jimmy Katz

>> Subtle and understated, guitarist Bill Frisell‘s playing is soothing and mellow, but full of harmonic and melodic intricacies. He visited the area twice last year in a guitar/bass/drums trio format, but will be at Wolf Trap tonight in a trio with violinist Eyvind Kang and drummer Rudy Royston. 8 p.m. $27

>> Trumpeter Eric Vloeimans is a jazz star in his native Holland and plays regularly throughout Europe. He is currently touring the U.S., and will make a stop at Twins Jazz on Thursday. Call 202-234-0072 for set time and cover information.

>> Keyboardist Keiko Matsui has been at the forefront of contemporary jazz for over 20 years. She starts a four night stand at Blues Alley on Thursday with daily 8 and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are $37.50 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> Vibraphonist Chuck Redd, a faculty member at the University of Maryland, leads a fine group of local musicians on Friday at Jazz Night in Southwest. The band will include drummer and Three Stars alum Lenny Robinson. 6 to 9 p.m. $5

>> Colorful South African vocal ensemble Ladysmith Black Mambazo, best known for their work on Paul Simon’s Graceland, will be performing an 8 p.m. show on Friday at Strathmore. As of this writing, there aren’t many tickets left.

>> Saxophonist Bruce Swaim, winner of the 2010 Wammie for “Best Jazz Instrumentalist,” will be leading his group on Friday and Saturday at Twins Jazz. Tickets to the 9 and 11 p.m. sets are $15 + $12 minimum/surcharge.

>> Bohemian Caverns will host two regulars of the local scene this Friday and Saturday. Trumpeter and Three Stars alum Thad Wilson will lead his combo on Friday, while saxophonist Luis Faife will play with his quartet on Saturday. Tickets to the 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. sets are $15.