Reconsidering Botti

It would be a mistake to write off trumpeter Chris Botti as a smooth jazzer serving pablum to the masses. His credentials are impressive — stints with Woody Shaw, Paul Simon and Sting; his Grammy-winning "Impressions" record featuring Herbie Hancock and Mark Knopfler. He is equally at ease in jazz, classical and pop realms. And he's got a top-notch touring nonet. Best of all, Botti's tonal chops and command of melody are masterful, proving pretty isn't necessarily vapid. (8 p.m. Fri., Orchestra Hall, Mpls.; $40-$115, ­minnesotaorchestra.org)

Remembering Brian Gallagher

Best known as a member of Prince's New Power Generation and a co-founder of Greazy Meal, saxophonist Brian Gallagher died of a pulmonary embolism in March. On the eve of what would have been his 53rd birthday, his cohorts and friends are staging a CD release party for music he recorded with a quartet in January at Icehouse. A formidable parade of horns will stand in for Gallagher onstage. (9:30 p.m. Tue., Icehouse, Mpls.; $8-$10, icehousempls.com)

Django acolyte

Dorado Schmitt was a memorable part of the Dakota's four-night celebration of Django Reinhardt's centennial birthday more than six years ago. Now the gypsy guitarist/violinist returns for four shows over two nights with his Hot Club-styled swagger and some originals mixed in with Django covers. (7 and 9 p.m. Tue.-Wed., Dakota, Mpls.; $20-$40, ­dakotacooks.com)

Dave King reigns

Bad Plus drummer Dave King stages a Thanksgiving week takeover, beginning Tuesday and Wednesday night with his beautifully luminous Dave King Trio featuring pianist Bill Carrothers and bassist Billy Peterson. Carrothers has his own kind of quietude, which brings out the somber best in King and Peterson, who are a couple of cut-ups by nature. (7 p.m. Tue.-Wed., Dunsmore Room at Crooners Lounge, Mpls.; $20 or $55 with dinner, croonersloungemn.com)

BRITT ROBSON