When Jeff Ude takes his seat at the piano, audiences quickly realize this isn’t just another performance. It’s a joyful conversation between friends, woven together with music, memories, and laughter. And that’s exactly what makes him a great fit for Audiences Unlimited (AUI).

From Singing in Seymour to Serenading from the Center Stage

Jeff’s musical journey began in Seymour, Indiana, where he was born and raised. After earning a journalism degree from Indiana University in the 1970s and spending time as a sportswriter, Jeff’s passion for music began to take him in a new direction.

Self-taught on the piano, Jeff transitioned to a full-time music career in 1985, performing with various bands, a journey that eventually landed him in Fort Wayne. Today, Jeff plays with the Joel Young Band, but it’s his solo shows with Audiences Unlimited that have become a beloved staple for the AUI community.

Discovering AUI: A New Stage, A New Purpose

Jeff first heard about AUI from a fellow musician over 12 years ago, a conversation that piqued his interest, especially since the landscape for live music in coffee shops and other venues was changing.

“Typically, coffee customers don’t care about the music anymore,” he said. “They’re just there to get their mocha.” But with AUI, Jeff found an audience that truly listens, engages, and appreciates the music.

At first, Jeff was just looking for a little extra income, thinking his extensive repertoire—learned from his parents’ love of classic tunes—would be a good fit with the AUI crowd. What he didn’t expect was how deeply rewarding the experience would become.

“I didn’t realize how much I would brighten people’s days or how much I would get out of the performances, too,” Jeff shared.

A Performance Style That Entertains and Connects

Jeff’s shows are never just about the music. With the help of his manager and girlfriend, Lois, Jeff infuses each performance with witty banter, comedy, and plenty of opportunities for audience participation. “I don’t want to come out and just ‘jukebox’ it,” he said. “You have to make a connection with people.”

That’s why Jeff frequently takes audience requests—anything from John Denver to Frank Sinatra—and delights in the unexpected. “Many times, nurses come by and tell the people to sit down in their wheelchairs because they often get up and dance to the music,” he laughed.

Marked by a blend of nostalgia and fun, Jeff’s performances include the stories behind the songs, such as the way his father used to play Let Me Call You Sweetheart or his childhood association about Over the Rainbow and the infamous flying monkeys. He even does an Aunt Bee impression from The Andy Griffith Show, much to the delight of his audiences.

Memorable Moments

Over the years, Jeff has collected countless memories from his AUI performances. He recalls playing a musically complicated Elton John number for Lilian during his audition, only to hear her ask if he could also play Home on the Range.

“It’s more about the ability to make the connection,” Jeff said. “People can yell out requests, and I can just hear it and play by chord theory.”

One of Jeff’s favorite AUI moments involves a resident who kept interrupting his set to reminisce about meeting Hank Williams in Oklahoma—proof that the music is just the beginning of the conversation.

Why AUI?

For Jeff, working with Audiences Unlimited is about more than simply supplementing his income. “The AUI team books the jobs,” he said, an added perk to the relationship. “I like to be told where to go and just play,” he said. “They are a great team to work with. I’m spoiled. They take care of me.”

Above all, however, it’s the smiles, laughter, and genuine connections that keep Jeff performing, and the feeling is mutual. Jeff’s warmth, humor, and ability to connect on a personal level make his performances unforgettable—and the reason we’re grateful to have him as part of the Audiences Unlimited family.