Perhaps a combination of the demise of Gaslight Square, the influence of nearby genius Miles Davis, the strength of SIU-E’s music program, along with my dad’s passion for music, contributed to live jazz being a catalyst in the foundation of Andria’s Restaurant.
From the restaurant’s inception, music—specifically jam sessions—occurred nightly in the basement, or rathskeller. All musicians were welcomed to “sit in”—and indeed they did seem to show up at all hours of the evening and into the morning. They had various backgrounds and skill levels but shared a common passion: jazz.
My dad played sax (soprano, alto,tenor, and baritone) from the age of 7, traveling to the Ozarks Night Hawk Club and touring with Stan Kenton’s big band while a young man. His music was his voice, it seemed. My dad encouraged and could identify talented musicians—of whom many passed through our doors.
From Belleville:
Rich Jones—on the drums who could maneuver those soft brushes, discuss opera, and write prolifically
George Marsh—drummer extraordinaire who would go on to teach percussion at UCLA and record with Denny Zeitlin
Dave Wessel—self -professed “jazz snob” who merged art and science (i.e., the composer and computer software) and established the Center for New Music Technologies at UC Berkeley
Rodney Bub—piano tuner by day and yet, legally blind, who touched with grace those ivory keys
Dennis Sparger—since the 1980s a distinguished musical director and conductor of the Bach Society of St. Louis Chorus and Orchestra who recognized the quality of composition and spiritual dimension of both classical and jazz forms
Jimmy Duncan—drummer who baked the best healthy breads with his dancer wife Audrey
From Lebanon:
Willie Freshour—who ran the 1880’s soda fountain on St. Louis St. by day and picked up his clarinet at night
From Collinsville:
Jack Butterfield-whose family owned a jewelry shop and who played an undistinguishable “Happy Birthday” on the Kimball’s keys when he wasn’t the church organist
Marv Docter—talented saxophonist with big band experience too; the youngest of the group
From Valmeyer:
Ross Schneider—whose talented scope included the sax, flute, piano, and songwriting, who went on to teach music at Upsala College
Vocalist Sherry Drake—who had a velvety voice with an ability to scat and whose “Gentle Rain” version with Gayle Bell still makes me cry.
Our home’s and our business’ doors were always swinging open to musicians of all genres. Most of them are gone, but certainly not forgotten; if you listen closely, you’ll hear the echoes today. I’m thankful for the memories!
In honor of our heritage, we have embraced live music every weekend, continuing our legacy into the present. Every Friday and Saturday, you can immerse yourself in the soulful Flamenco melodies of Lliam Christy, a celebrated musician whose journey has taken him across the globe, captivating audiences with his artistry. We are truly fortunate to have him with us, sharing his exceptional talent and rich musical legacy. For special events, we elevate the experience even further, often bringing in 3–6-piece ensembles to join Lliam, blending his passion for Flamenco with the timeless influence of our jazz roots, creating a dynamic and unforgettable performance.
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