Nina Lares Quintet @ 1881 — All-Star Ensemble + DJ Terence Toy at 1881 – Pasadena, CA

Featured Performers

DJ Terrence Toy — Opening & Closing DJ

With over 25 years of experience, DJ Terrence Toy has honed a signature style blending soulful melodies, uplifting harmonies, and penetrating beats into each electrifying set. Based in Los Angeles, he also infuses jazz elements, live instrumentation, and vocals with deep, emotive house vibes—creating immersive performances that have moved both hearts and dance floors all over the world.

Nina Lares — Vocalist & Recording Artist

Acclaimed vocalist and recording artist Nina Lares is known for her soulful blend of jazz, R&B, and Latin influences. A fixture in the Los Angeles music scene and beyond, she has performed internationally, captivating audiences with her dynamic range and heartfelt delivery. As a recording artist, Nina has released original music to critical praise, showcasing her artistry in both studio and live settings. She is celebrated for bringing elegance, emotion, and power to every performance.

Todd Hunter — Pianist

LA-based jazz pianist Todd Hunter began his musical journey in his hometown of San Diego, later immersing himself in New York’s jazz scene. In New York, he honed his craft alongside jazz luminaries such as Ahmad Jamal, Joe Henderson, Tommy Flanagan, and Mel Lewis Since settling in Southern California, he’s performed globally with icons like Dionne Warwick (currently touring with her), Stevie Wonder, Natalie Cole, Nancy Wilson, and many others. Todd has released acclaimed trio albums including Eat, Drink, Play, Dig It, and Have a Nice Trip.

Steve Hass — Drummer

Steve Hass is a versatile and dynamic drummer based in Los Angeles. A Berklee alumnus, he launched his career touring with Ravi Coltrane and soon became their touring—and recording—drummer for The Manhattan Transfer, appearing on multiple albums and their live concert DVD. Steve has performed with artists across jazz, R&B, fusion, Latin, and pop genres—including John Scofield, Patti Austin, Cher, Christian McBride, Mavis Staples, and more. Known for his intense, polyrhythmic style, Hass is celebrated among the top drummers today

Sezin Ahmet Turkmenoglu — Bassist

Originally from Istanbul, bassist, composer, and arranger Sezin Ahmet Turkmenoglu is now based in Los Angeles. He began classical guitar at age 11 and transitioned to bass at 15. He studied both bass guitar and double bass at Bilgi University and has performed on recordings and stages—from pop setups to jazz clubs and festivals—both in Turkey and internationally. Sezin also shares his passion through teaching and composing within the LA music scene.

Anand Bennett — Multi-Instrumentalist

Jazz-trained and innovative, Anand Bennett is a multi-instrumentalist who specializes in Electric Mandolin and Bass . He was highlighted as a teenage prodigy for designing and mastering his own instruments. His innovative musicianship spans both traditional and contemporary realms.