Trace Zacur at The Mad Monkfish
Schedule
Thu Mar 12 2026 at 07:00 pm to 08:30 pm
UTC-04:00Location
The Mad Monkfish | Cambridge, MA
About this Event
March 12 at The Mad Monkfish, Trace Zacur brings a high-energy jazz-funk set driven by deep grooves, modern harmony, and open improvisation. The music blends tight melodies with heavy pocket and expressive solos, drawing from jazz-funk and fusion traditions while keeping a raw, forward-moving edge. Expect an electric late-night vibe and a band that’s fully in the moment.
Personnel:
Trace Zacur, tenor saxophone
Jiri Nedoma, piano
Zachary "Z String" Rochester, bass
Peter McLean, drums
NOTE:
Immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere of the Jazz Baroness Room at The Mad Monkfish, where you can sip your favorite drink, savor sushi or Thai cuisine, and enjoy the mesmerizing sounds of a remarkable jazz ensemble. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or simply seeking a delightful night out, this event promises to be a treat for your senses. To keep this vibrant jazz scene alive, we require a minimum spend of $25 per person, since all ticket proceeds go directly to the musicians. If a guest spends less than $25, the difference will be added to the check—this small gesture helps us keep the restaurant running and the music flowing. We’re grateful for your support—it’s what keeps the spirit of live jazz alive here at The Mad Monkfish.
Our full bar and food menus are available to complement the musical experience, so indulge in our renowned cuisine while supporting live jazz at The Mad Monkfish. Together, we can keep the music playing!
BIO:
Trace’s early days on the saxophone consisted of following along with songs performed by his favorite players, but it wasn’t long before he kicked things up a notch and began playing professionally at the tender age of 14. Under the guidance of many teachers, he honed his style-shifting skills throughout high school by teaming up with various bands and groups around Tampa and St. Petersburg. Noting his passion for music, an older friend suggested he look up Berklee, which Trace quickly target-locked as his next ambition! From 2016-2020, he achieved his goal while training at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Trace’s mission to take his playing to the next level has been realized via roles as a bandleader and sideman in Florida and beyond. When he isn’t on stage, you’ll find him with his nose in an essay, biography, or classic novel. Turns out that stuff everybody else hated in high school is actually pretty cool.
“Zacur’s distinct, edgy sound on tenor sax… helped nudge the music in new directions.” - Ken Franckling’s
— Ken Franckling’s Jazz Notes, 2021
“Shows a real passion for the saxophone that sets him apart from his peers… genuine talent for improvisation and showmanship” - Sarpay Ozcagatay
“I love to play,” said Zacur. “I love music. I see it as a language with no limits. My heroes are Herbie Hancock, Michael Brecker, James Carter, and countless others who … push the boundaries of music and themselves to keep exploring the possibilities.” - Trace Zacur
“Trace continues to impress with his head-spinning solos that run the gamut from sublime to fiery. This guy is going places. If you’re not following him yet, you should be... ” - Stephen Splane
Where is it happening?
The Mad Monkfish, 524 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 12.51



















