Seeing a jazz gig in the District that doesn’t feature Joe Herrera is almost a challenge. The ubiquitous trumpeter is at the center of the city’s burgeoning jazz scene and plays an important role as both bandleader and sideman, co-directing the fine Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra with saxophonist Brad Linde on Mondays, backing master griot Cheick Hamala Diabate at the Bossa Bistro & Lounge on Tuesdays, jamming with talented young saxophonist Elijah Balbed on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Bayou, and playing one-offs with Thievery Corporation saxophonist Frank Mitchell, Jr. In March, Herrera and guitarist Rodney Richardson launched the Sunday Jazz Lounge series at Twins Jazz, which showcases many of the area’s brightest young talents, plus he is a core member of keyboardist Will Rast‘s Funk Ark, which has just returned from a series of showcases at SXSW. Oddly enough, Saturdays are the only regular night off for this busy jazzer.

A gem of the local jazz scene can be found on Monday nights at Bohemian Caverns, when the historic club hosts its house band, the Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra. The BCJO boasts a rotating cast of the area’s finest talent. Every week, casual jazz fans and aficionados alike can enjoy a diverse repertoire from the 17-piece ensemble, ranging from the big band classics of Ellington and Basie to original compositions by members of the group. Not bad for a mere $7 cover.