Charlie Ballantine
An Evening of Acoustic Jazz with Charlie Ballantine & Quinn Sternberg
A very special June Clear Vibes House Concert was added. This one, featured a duo. Charlie Ballantine on acoustic guitar and Quinn Sternberg on upright bass, created a wonderful listening experience. These two are very talented musicians and it was magical.
I've known Charlie for years, and this was actually his third time playing a house concert. The very first concert I hosted back in 2019 featured Charlie before he moved out of state, so having him back in my living room felt a bit like coming full circle.
This time, it was especially unique.
A Rare Acoustic Performance
I've seen Charlie perform countless times over the years, but hearing him in a completely acoustic setting is something special. Paired with Quinn Sternberg's expressive upright bass, the music filled the room in a way that only happens when talented musicians and an attentive audience share the same space.
The two have played together for years, and it shows. Their musical conversation felt effortless as they moved between original compositions and jazz tunes, handing melodies back and forth with the kind of trust that only comes from longtime collaborators. Their chemistry made every piece feel alive. Charlie said during the performance, even his hands needed a break after so much acoustic playing!
Listening Together
One of my favorite things about house concerts is how closely everyone experiences the music together. There are no distractions—just friends, neighbors, music lovers, and incredible artists sharing the same room.
It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces along with several first-time guests. Thank you to everyone who came out, listened attentively, and helped create such a welcoming atmosphere. The audience is every bit as important as the performers in making these concerts what they are.
Thank You, CJ Woods III and Paula Nicewanger
A special thank you goes to CJ Woods III for attending the concert and writing such a thoughtful piece about the experience in the community newspaper, The Weekly View. His article beautifully captured what makes house concerts different—the intimacy, the sense of community, and the joy of hearing world-class musicians in a living room instead of a traditional venue. I'm grateful he took the time to share that experience with the community. You can read his article, Good Vibes, here: The Weekly View – Good Vibes.
Thank You, Melodie Yvonne
Another huge thank you to Melodie Yvonne for once again documenting the afternoon so beautifully. Her photographs perfectly captured the warmth of the room, the connection between Charlie and Quinn, and the feeling of gathering together to experience live music.
If you haven't seen her gallery yet, I highly recommend taking a look: Melodie Yvonne's photo gallery from the concert.
The Music Continued
The afternoon didn't end when the house concert was over. Charlie headed to the Chatterbox Jazz Club that evening to join Rob Dixon for another incredible set, and several of our house concert guests made their way there to keep the music going.
Now it's Rob's turn. I'm looking forward to welcoming the Rob Dixon Trio to the next Clear Vibes House Concert and hosting another one of Indianapolis' musical greats.
Until Next Time
Clear Vibes House Concerts has always been about creating meaningful musical experiences and bringing people together through live performance. Afternoons like this remind me why I keep opening my home.
Thank you again to Charlie Ballantine and Quinn Sternberg for sharing your music with us, to everyone who filled the room with attentive ears and enthusiastic applause, and to those who continue to help tell the story through words and photographs.
See you at the next concert.
