Soundstage Events

09/15/2026

07/14/2026

Elevate Unity Nonprofit and The Benson Hotel proudly unveil: The Benson Jazz Revival Every Wednesday, 5-7PM at The Benson Hotel

Portland’s love affair with jazz is being rekindled in truly iconic fashion — a free weekly jazz series that brings smooth sounds, community connection, and cultural vibrancy back to the heart of downtown.

Hosted every Wednesday from 5-7 PM in the hotel’s elegant lobby lounge, the series will showcase a dynamic mix of the Pacific Northwest’s top jazz talent, emerging artists, and surprise special guests. Seating is first come, first served - arrive early to secure the best spot.

The is about more than music; it’s a celebration of community, connection, and shared experience. Elevate Unity’s mission reflects the heart of the series: to bring people together through unity, inclusiveness, and a love of culture.
Guests can expect an immersive evening that blends the richness of Portland’s jazz heritage with elevated craft beverages including Don Julio, Bulleit, Ketel One, Rendition Rye, Kur Gin, and local favorite Dobbes Family Winery, and a rotating selection of chef-inspired hors d’oeuvres - all set within one of the city’s most storied venues.

This event is a part of ’s mission to champion diverse programming for performing arts, mentoring youth, community love & unity 🤗🫂❤️ A special thank you to our supporting sponsors including Jack London Revue, Sould Out Productions, MusicPortland, Don Julio, Bulleit, Ketel One, Rendition Rye, Kur Gin, Dobbes Family Winery, and The Portland Skanner, who are all striving to “Elevate Unity” and celebrate diversity and love for each other in our community and everywhere else.

Elevate Unity nonprofit is a collaborative effort created from the necessity to support the arts, reconnect our community, and promote unity through the healing message of music! Our focus is to advocate for inclusion and equality while providing help and support for our local venues, their staff, and the creatives still suffering from the devastating effects of COVID-19.

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05/19/2026

mA Black Music Month Exclusive:
Benson Soul of Jazz Summit

Saturday, June 13, 2026
Doors - 6pm |
Black Music Month - Topic - State of local music & venues - 6:30pm | Welcome Sponsor mentions - 7 pm | Music
7:30-10 | Last Call - 10 pm

Tickets: Reserved group tables limited (2); top, (4) top, (8 top) reserve tables early.
$27 - General Admission: Bistro tables, Standing Room / Mezzanine Access
$55 - Reserve: Seat + 1 Sponsor Cocktail
$95 - RSVP: Seat + Catered Food & Mezzanine Access + 1 Sponsor Cocktail.
$75 - VIP: Seat only + 2 Sponsor Cocktails
$120 - All Access: Stageside Seat + Catered Food & Mezzanine access + 2 Sponsor Cocktails

Join us during June at the Abbey and celebrate how Black musicians are shaping the world of music this Black Music Month. Get ready for an incredible night of food, cocktails, and dancing to the music from one of Portland’s top female vocalists, performing Jazz, Soul, and more!

This is the kickoff event and start of our summer jazz run and the quarterly show performances at the historic Benson Ballrooms inside the iconic Benson Hotel.
Our timely event directly benefits two impactful local non-profits, Elevate Unity, & the Saturday Samaritans organizations.
Both are dedicated to uplifting and healing the community, fighting homelessness and hunger, while supporting diversity equity and unity in our city.
Seating is limited so get you tickets early and don’t miss this special night of music for a great cause!

Dinner Special Includes:
Choice of Bourbon St. Chicken & Cajun Smoked Pork, Sauteed Garlic Green Beans, and 7-Cheese Creole Mac.

05/07/2026

A Black Music Month Exclusive: Legends Music Showcase

Saturday, June 6, 2026
Doors - 7pm | Community Reception 7:30pm | Music 8-11pm
$20 - General Admission
$25 - Preferred Seating
$45 - VIP Preferred Seating + Dinner

Join us during June at the Abbey and celebrate how Black musicians are shaping the world of music this Black Music Month.

Enjoy performances from The Legendary Beyons, The Norman Sylvester Band & The PDX Jazz All-Stars featuring the Ron Steen Trio, Tony Pacini on keys, Dennis Caiazza on bass, Dan Balmer on guitar) and special guest Julianne Johnson.

Dinner Special Includes:
Choice of Bourbon St. Chicken & Cajun Smoked Pork, Sauteed Garlic Green Beans, and 7-Cheese Creole Mac.