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10 Travel Destinations for Jazz-Lovers

Jazz is a worldwide phenomenon. When you want to experience an exceptional jazz performance or festival, there are plenty of cities on the table. Some feel like classic choices, while others seem a bit unexpected. But, nonetheless, they all have something to offer jazz lovers. If you want to experience the best of jazz, here are ten travel destinations that need to make it onto your list.

1. New Orleans

When you want to experience a rich and historic jazz scene firsthand, you can’t beat the Big Easy. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and it was the home of world-renown jazz performers like Sidney Bechet and Louis Armstrong.

Along with amazing venues like Preservation Hall in the French Quarter, you’ll also find a range of smaller clubs that regularly feature live Jazz. Plus, each spring, New Orleans hosts Jazzfest, a seven-day event that draws in some of the genre’s most legendary performers as well as a solid mix of impressive up-and-comers.

New Orleans is undoubtedly one of the must-see travel destinations for jazz lovers, so it should definitely have a place on your list.

Music is part of daily life in Cuba, and various genres are often combined with traditional Latin sounds to create invigorating pieces that keep energy levels high. In Havana, jazz is prominently featured in these unique fusions. Local bars and restaurants use it to entice locals and travelers to come inside. Street performers use trumpets and Spanish guitar to entertain passersby. Plus, the local culture is incredibly vibrant, making Havana an engaging destination filled fun and music.

3. New York City

New York City has always had an influential music scene, and it played a big role in the world of jazz. Billie Holiday started out at Bill’s Place, a quintessential venue in Harlem. Plus, the Blue Note in Greenwich Village has a storied jazz history. And you can’t ignore the Village Vanguard, a jazz room that has hosted talents like Bill Evans, John Coltrane, and Sonny Rollins.

The city also hosts several jazz festivals. Winter Jazzfest is an exceptional event. Plus, Jazz at Lincoln Center is an experience unlike any other.

The jazz scene in Paris is worth experiencing first-hand. You’ll find jazz bars scattered throughout the city, and clubs like Duc des Lombards have hosted some of the biggest names in jazz, including Kenny Barron and Ahmad Jamal.

Paris also embraces modern and avant-garde jazz sounds, so you might get to hear something that you wouldn’t experience anywhere else. However, there are plenty of jazz clubs that focus on the classics, ensuring there’s something for every kind of jazz-lover around.

5. Montreal

With a jazz history going back to the 1920s, Montreal landed on the jazz scene radar partially due to Prohibition. It was one of few cities where purchasing alcohol was allowed, causing people to come from near and far, establishing Montreal as a jazz center.

The city has maintained its vibrant jazz scene for nearly 100 years. Along with more clubs than one could ever hope to visit in a single trip to the city, Montreal also hosts the International Jazz Festival , one of the biggest and more famous events in the jazz world. The 10-day long summer event draws massive crowds, all hoping to hear some of the hundreds of musicians who come in to play.

6. Cape Town

South Africa’s capital city is an amazing jazz-centric destination. Each March, Cape Town hosts its International Jazz Festival, and even that is considered the fourth largest on the planet and the biggest on the continent.

Cape Town also has a range of popular, well-recognized jazz clubs. Along with The Piano Bar, you’ll find Asoka and the West End Jazz club, all of which deserve a visit during your trip.

7. Amsterdam

If you are looking for a rich jazz culture, make sure that Amsterdam is on your itinerary. Along with being a stop on the North Sea Jazz Festival , the city regularly hosts jazz concerts, and there are numerous cafes and bars that focus on the genre.

Once there, make sure to head over to Bourbon Street Blues Café, which pays tribute to New Orleans. Since the venue has Blues Brothers figurines on the roof, it’s pretty easy to spot.

8. Copenhagen

When it comes to summer jazz events, it’s hard to beat Copenhagen. Starting the first Friday in July, the 10-day Copenhagen Jazz Festival hosts more than 1,000 concerts across over 100 venues. Internationally-renown jazz performers, local up-and-comers, and everything in between take part, making it an exceptionally varied event. Plus, many of the concerts are free, so it’s excellent for budget-conscious travelers, too.

When it comes to live jazz, don’t overlook Jakarta. The International Java Jazz Festival may be the largest gathering of jazz performers and jazz-lovers in the southern hemisphere. Thousands of artists arrive, offering up more than 100 shows during the event.

10. Kansas City

Kansas City loves jazz. Along with more than 20 venues featuring performances on a regular basis, the city is also home to the American Jazz Museum. The museum has permanent and rotating exhibits, as well as hosts concerts throughout the year, making it a great place to enjoy some music and dive into the genre’s history.

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JAZZIZ Travel Guide: 20 Jazz Festivals That Should Be On Your Bucket List

The Saint Lucia Jazz Festival (pictured) is among the many fests that should be on any serious jazz traveler’s bucket list.

There’s no denying that jazz is a global phenomenon, with a network of artist and fans that extends to every corner of the world. Dispersed as we are, we’re also more connected than ever, convening on sites like JAZZIZ.com to discuss, celebrate and occasionally argue over the music that binds us.

Occasionally, we even get to congregate in person, and jazz festivals, like the ones we list in this guide, allow us to connect to the music — and each other — on a deeper level.

Attending a festival is certainly one of the most exciting ways to experience jazz, but it’s also a way to interact with a new place and culture. Jazz festivals afford attendees the opportunity to hear familiar sounds in a far-off setting, but they also encourage festivalgoers to taste new foods, see new sights and meet new people. So, in the spirit of making the jazz world seem a little smaller, we’ve compiled a list of festivals that should be on any jazz fan’s bucket list. These are the festivals that, for reasons musical and historical, have made an impression on the jazz world that endures to this day. Of the 20 festivals listed, 10 are in the United States and Canada and 10 are international. Their start dates range throughout the year, so no matter when or where you’re planning your trip, you’ll be sure to find some jazz nearby.

United States and Canada

International Fest de Jazz de Montréal Downtown Montreal, Quebec, Canada Next Edition: June 27 – July 6, 2019

Ranked as the world’s largest jazz festival in the Guinness Book of World Records, the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal is among the very best celebrations of jazz anywhere on the planet. Every year for 10 days, the French-speaking metropolis of North America becomes a living, breathing jazz venue, where fans of all types rub shoulders with aficionados of jazz in its purest form. Concerts take place on free outdoor stages in Montreal’s beautiful downtown business corridor, as well as in intimate clubs, swanky jazz venues and historic concert halls across the city. This is one festival you absolutely can’t miss.

Newport Jazz Festival Fort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island, United States Next Edition: August 2-4, 2019

The granddaddy of American jazz festivals, the Newport Jazz Festival was founded in 1954. The first edition, organized by jazz impresario George Wein, featured performances by the likes of Billie Holiday and Stan Kenton. In the years since, the festival has played home to some of the most iconic live performances in jazz. Sixty-five years since the festival’s inception, Wein still stands prominently at Newport’s helm — though he’s aided in his duties by modern bass phenom Christian McBride. Live music by the biggest names in jazz, together with Fort Adams’ scenic seaside beauty, make this a festival that should be on any serious jazz fan’s bucket list.   

Monterey Jazz Festival Monterey, California, United States Next Edition: September 27 – 29, 2019

Monterey Jazz Festival is much more than a series of concerts. It’s a full-blown jazz experience. Now in its sixth decade, the festival offers 20 acres of magnificent oak-studded grounds for fans to enjoy, featuring films, lectures, exhibitions, food and beverages, an international shopping bazaar and 8 stages of live jazz entertainment. More importantly, the festival is a major proponent of ensuring safe spaces for all musicians, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity and culture. With stellar musical programming, a stunning natural landscape and an inclusive social outlook, Monterey is leading the way in a new jazz fest culture.

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival New Orleans, Louisiana, United States Next Edition: April 2020

It only makes sense that the birthplace of jazz would be home to one of the most exciting music festivals in the world. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has made its mission to blend a wide mix of artists and genres, attracting some of the biggest names in modern music to its legendary stages. Historically, those acts have included Aretha Franklin, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Sarah Vaughan, Dave Brubeck and many others. Today, you’re just as likely to see performances by modern stars like Trombone Shorty and Branford Marsalis as you would Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder.

Litchfield Jazz Festival Washington, Connecticut, United States Next Edition: July 26-28, 2019

The Litchfield Jazz Festival is one of the most scenic festivals in jazz, taking place amid the rolling hills of the Connecticut countryside. No surprise, then, that the festival continues to be a major draw for local jazz fans and touring musicians alike. For this year’s edition, the festival has relocated to The Gunnery in Washington, Connecticut, a move that coincides with the conclusion of the four-week-long Litchfield Jazz Camp. Featuring local food, top-flight jazz acts and performances by extremely talented campers, Litchfield is a feel-good fest worth seeking out.

Detroit Jazz Festival Detroit, Michigan, United States Next Edition: August 30 – September 2, 2019

The Detroit Jazz Festival is among the largest free outdoor festivals in the country. Taking place over Labor Day, the festival has been a staple of the Midwestern jazz circuit for nearly four decades. Every year, in addition to booking international jazz icons as headliners, the festival also designates an artist-in-residence. Previous artists-in-residence include Pat Metheny and Wayne Shorter. For the 2019 edition, the festival has brought in electric bass innovator Stanley Clarke. For a free festival, the experience is priceless.

San Jose Jazz Summer Fest San Jose, California, United States Next Edition: August 9-11, 2019

San Jose Jazz Summer Fest truly embodies the Silicon Valley start-up spirit. The first San Jose Jazz Festival took place in 1990 over two days in August at the Plaza de César Chavez, attracting 10,000 attendees. (The festival organizers doubled as the clean-up crew.) Thirty years later, the plaza remains the festival’s epicenter, but the magnitude of the festival has grown exponentially, becoming one of the West Coast’s foremost jazz fests, with more than 100 acts taking place across 12 stages. This year’s lineup represents the very best in vocal jazz, with headliners including Diane Reeves, Gregory Porter, Pink Martini and The O’Jays.

Chicago Jazz Festival Chicago, Illinois, United States Next Edition: August 23-September 1, 2019

The Chicago Jazz Festival is the most anticipated jazz event in the Windy City. This free, outdoor celebration of jazz takes place every year in downtown Chicago’s beautiful Millenium Park, as well as in additional venues throughout the city. The fest features artists from across the musical spectrum, with a special focus on the city’s homegrown avant-garde and blues artists. With the beautiful Chicago skyline as a backdrop, and with food and beverages from local eateries available onsite, this festival represents the very best of Chicago’s incredible jazz history.

Telluride Jazz Festival Telluride, Colorado, United States Next Edition: August 9-11, 2019

Since 1977, Telluride’s majestic perch high in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado has been the site of an annual jazz fest combining breathtaking natural landscapes with the captivating music. Concerts take place in an intimate format, with abundant musical offerings from nationally touring acts on outdoor stages during the day and historic venues at night. Paired with alpine recreational activities and local food and wine, the result is an immersive live music experience that has attracted audiophiles from around the world for four decades.

Rochester International Jazz Festival Rochester, New York, United States Next Edition: June 21-29, 2019

Honorable Mentions

Biamp PDX Jazz Festival Portland, Oregon, United States Next Edition: February and March, 2020

Nationally and regionally supported as a cultural tourism initiative in celebration of Black History Month, PDX Jazz Festival is dedicated to preserving America’s indigenous art form by presenting internationally recognized jazz masters alongside local jazz musicians.

Atlanta Jazz Festival Atlanta, Georgia, United States Next Edition: May 25-26, 2019

Over its more than 40-year history, the Atlanta Jazz Festival has been the backdrop to musical legends such as Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie and Nina Simone. This free outdoor fest, held inside the beautiful Piedmont Park, is the perfect way to spend your Memorial Day weekend in ATL.

Jacksonville Jazz Festival Jacksonville, Florida, United States Next Edition: May 23-26, 2019

At the Jacksonville Jazz Fest, attendees will experience two stages of live jazz, local food, drinks, shopping and entertainment. Since first taking place in 1981, the Jazz Fest has become one of the largest jazz festivals in the country, offering a fun and vibrant street festival atmosphere in downtown Jax.

New York Winter Jazzfest New York City, New York, United States Next Edition: January 9-18, 2020

Winter Jazzfest is New York City’s premiere showcase for improvised music, practically unrivaled in size and scope. The festival’s signature event is the Winter Jazzfest Marathon.  These endurance-listening sessions offer up to six hours of continuous music by performers from across the jazz spectrum.

Clearwater Jazz Holiday Clearwater, Florida, United States Next Edition: October 17-20, 2019

The Clearwater Jazz Holiday is a four-day and four-night, world-class, live, music festival, enjoyed by over 35,000 people the third week of every October and now in its 40th year. The music festival has evolved from a series of concerts on the back of a flatbed truck and at venues around Clearwater into an annual, international, music festival that draws tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Iowa City Jazz Festival Iowa City, Iowa, United States Next Edition: July 5-7, 2019

The Iowa City Jazz Festival is a three-day weekend of live jazz performances and delicious local dishes, capped off with a full-blown fireworks display over the University of Iowa Pentacrest.

International Festivals

Montreux Jazz Festival Montreux, Switzerland Next Edition: June 28 – July 13, 2019

The Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the world’s most important fests, founded in 1967 on Switzerland’s Lake Geneva shoreline. The festival — the world’s second largest — was founded on a philosophy of pure jazz, and memorable performers from years past include Miles Davis, Keith Jarrett and Bill Evans. Today, jazz is still the festival’s guiding light, but its musical palette has expanded to include artists on the pop side of the musical spectrum. For the 2019 edition, that includes Sting, Elton John, Slash and ZZ Top.

North Sea Jazz Festival Rotterdam, The Netherlands Next Edition: July 12-14, 2019

The Netherlands’ North Sea Jazz is the largest indoor music festival in the world, known for its pan-generational view of jazz and eclectic musical bookings. Visitors are regularly treated to new and emerging acts in the genres of jazz, blues, avant-garde rock, funk, soul and R&B, and the fest regularly accommodates more than thousand musicians spread out over 150 performances and fifteen different stages. But for such a large-scale event, the North Sea Jazz Fest in Rotterdam still manages to maintain an intimate character, reminiscent of its early days at the Hague, when legends like Count Basie and Stan Getz  graced its stage.

Umbria Jazz Festival Perugia, Italy Next Edition: July 12-21, 2019

The Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia is Italy’s most famous jazz celebration, known throughout the region as the premier musical celebration of the summer. The fest began in 1973 as a showcase for Italian jazz artists but in the years since has grown to accommodate musicians and ensembles from around the world. Though it has a strong jazz flavor, the fest attracts artists and jazz fans from related genres like funk, soul, experimental music and R&B. All of it takes place amid the modern-meets-historical landscape of Perugia, one of the most beautiful cities in Umbria region of Central Italy.

Havana Jazz Festival Havana, Cuba Next Edition: January 1-19, 2020

Jazz in Marciac Marciac, France Next Edition: July 25 – August 15, 2019

Cape Town Jazz Festival Cape Town, South Africa Next Edition: March 2020

The Cape Town Jazz Festival is one of South Africa’s most anticipated musical events, drawing fans from around the world to this coastal city for two days of outstanding music and educational programming. The festival takes a wide-view when it comes to its lineup — past years’ headliners have included Chaka Khan and Jeff Lorber — but there’s also a strong focus on local artists, such as drummer Louis Moholo-Moholo and trumpeter Darren English. Next year, Cape Town will be the site of the International Jazz Day Global Concert, an event that will vault the city even further into the jazz spotlight.

Jarasum International Jazz Festival Jarasum, South Korea Next Edition: October 4-6, 2019

“Stepping onstage at the Jarasum Jazz Festival is like stumbling into an alternate universe where jazz is suddenly young, hip, sexy and cool,” says saxophonist Joshua Redman. The festival — which takes place on an island at the center of the Korean peninsula just a few hours from Seoul — attracts upwards of 100,000 attendees per year from countries far and wide. The headlining artists are equally vast and varied, with previous headliners including the Carla Bley Trio and saxophonist Grace Kelly. This is one fest where attendees aren’t afraid to get down and dance to the music, so if you’re planning a trip, be sure to bring your dancing shoes.

JazzFest Berlin Berlin, Germany Next Edition: October 31 – November 3, 2019

In 1964, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered the opening remarks at the Berlin Jazz Festival, honoring jazz’s role as a force of integration, progress and cross-cultural understanding. More than 50 years later, jazz musicians from Berlin and all over the world continue to come together to play at the Jazzfest, making the festival one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe. The festival is jam-packed with music but well-distributed across town, with concerts taking place in intimate jazz clubs throughout the city, allowing you to sample all that Berlin has to offer as you take in sounds of international jazz artists.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival Cheltenham, England Next Edition: May 2020

Jamie Cullum is a fan. So is Moira Stuart. And it’s no wonder why. With over 20,000 music-fans getting in the festival swing every year, Cheltenham Jazz Festival has become one England’s most beloved jazz celebrations. Taking place amid the stunning Montpellier Gardens at the heart of Cheltenham, this fest is the perfect place to soak up the sounds of today’s biggest jazz stars (and to catch a glimpse of the jazz stars of tomorrow), while wining and dining on festival grounds. This fest is family- and foodie-friendly, with an array of vendors offering local fare and activities for kids. “The great thing about Cheltenham Jazz Festival is that it brings together so many genres under the umbrella of jazz,” says Cullum.

Melbourne International Jazz Festival Melbourne, Australia Next Edition: May 31 – June 9, 2019

Honorable Mentions:

Panama Jazz Festival City of Knowledge, Panama City, Panama Next Edition: January 13-18, 2020

The brainchild of pianist Danilo Perez, the Panama Jazz Festival is a much-sought-after jazz event in South America, attracting over 300,000 jazz fans worldwide and offering students more than 4.5 million dollars in scholarships on an international level. Its educational component — supported by Berklee College of Music — brings 5,000 music students from all over the world to perform with Berklee faculty and alumni every year.

Copenhagen Jazz Festival Copenhagen, Denmark Next Edition: July 5-14, 2019

Copenhagen has played an important role in the history of jazz, serving as home to American expatriates and Danish innovators alike. And since 1979, the Copenhagen Jazz Festival has been shining a spotlight on the city’s vibrant music scene. Lasting 10 days, the festival envelops the Danish capital, offering a sumptuous musical feast to the 250,000 guests. Attendees can enjoy live jazz on the city’s streets, in its clubs, cafés and concert halls, and at open-air night venues – all in the very heart of historical Copenhagen.

St. Lucia Jazz Festival St. Lucia, Greater Antilles Next Edition: May 4-12, 2019

The St. Lucia Jazz Festival Produced in Collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center will showcase more than a dozen performances by world-renowned artists in intimate venues and public settings throughout one of the Caribbean’s most magnificent islands. If the pristine beaches, lapping waves and billowing palms aren’t enough to entice a visit, consider the musical programming, which this year will included a gospel jazz brunch on Mother’s Day, jazz cruises under the stars, concerts in waterfront venues and breathtaking open-air performances.

Red Sea Jazz Festival Eilat, Israel Next Edition: August 25-27, 2019

The Port of Eilat, a modern tourist town with a spectacular backdrop of blue sea and red desert mountains, provides the captivating location for this yearly celebration of jazz culture. Catch immersive sets by some of the biggest names in jazz in shipping freighters that have been transformed into music halls, indulge on local food and wine, or simply sit back and watch the yachts drift in from the sea. It’s all there at the Red Sea Jazz Festival.  

Java Jazz Festival Jakarta, Indonesia Next Edition: March 2020

Jakarta International BNI Java Jazz Festival (JJF) is one of the largest jazz festivals in the world and arguably the biggest in Southern Hemisphere. Held in Jakarta, Indonesia, this annual Jazz got its start in 2005 when approximately 102 groups and 1,227 artists performed in 146 shows. It recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a bigger-than-ever bash that featured headliners Toto and H.E.R.

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United States Jazz Trips

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It’s time to plan a jazz-centered trip for your students! Here’s our list of some of the top United States jazz trips to venues and stages that could feature your next big performance! Or, expose your students while they sit back and take in the sounds of great jazz musicians. Either way, in no particular order, here are our top-5 United States jazz trips.

Let the windy city pull you into a whirlwind of some of the best jazz experiences and performance opportunities around., sights and sounds.

• Andy’s Jazz Club – Visit one of Chicago’s best-known and most-respected jazz establishments, Andy’s offers casually sophisticated dining with a musical menu of Chicago’s top jazz artists. Local performers cover a range of styles from Traditional and Swing to Bop, Fusion, Latin and Afro-Pop in the live shows. Enjoy good food and reserved seating for 90 exciting minutes of dining and entertainment!
• Jazz Showcase – Explore and listen to jazz greats at the oldest historic jazz club in Chicago, founded in 1947.
• Chicago Jazz Festival – Listen and soak in the music from jazz greats at this annual ten-day jazz festival in late-August, in Millennium Park, at the Chicago Cultural Center and at other venues throughout the city.
• Hyde Park Jazz Festival – Check out this free two-day festival every September on the south-side of Chicago, established as one of the premier annual musical festivals in Chicago – named Best Neighborhood Music Festival by Chicago Magazine. The Jazz Fest presents Chicago’s greatest jazz musicians to nearly 20,000 people.

Performance Opportunities

• Chicago Field Museum – Perform in magnificent Stanley Field Hall at the Chicago Field Museum. This is not your typical performance venue – it features two African elephants and the largest T.Rex skeleton ever found, and the performance space is the size of a football field with a 70′ marble ceiling!
• Alder Planetarium – Jam among the stars (and planets) at the Adler Planetarium in the Solar System Gallery. After you perform, take time to explore the museum and watch a show.
• Festivals of Music – Play and be evaluated at one of the many premium, adjudicated two-day music festivals in Chicago at Harper College, First United Methodist Church, or at Robert Morris University.
• Music in The Parks – Six Flags Great America – Join other middle school and high school ensembles from all over the U.S. at a Music In The Parks Festival at a local High School. Each group is adjudicated and ranked by qualified judges.  Then enjoy Six Flags Great America  park and attend a special awards ceremony.
• VanderCook College of Music – experience a 90-minute rehearsal workshop at VanderCook College School of Music.
• Midwest Clinic – Apply to perform at The Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra and Music Conference at McCormick Place in Chicago.  Every December over 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and 30 countries gather to listen to top auditioned scholastic and professional groups, attend workshops and visit the great trade show.

New York City

Under the bright lights and hustle and bustle of the busy city, smooth jazz music can be heard in the air, flowing from jazz at lincoln center and dizzy’s coca-cola jazz club to the national jazz museum in harlem. new york offers many opportunities to explore, take-in, and perform jazz music.

• Lincoln Center Jazz Tour – Check out the Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, located at Columbus Circle. The House of Swing features gorgeous views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline, and three performance venues designed for jazz also offer the flexibility to showcase an incredible assortment of performance genres. Your tour guide will give information about Lincoln Center’s programs, answer questions and let you peak into New York’s jazz scene!
• Lincoln Center Visiting Band Workshops -Participate in customized workshops with your jazz ensemble at Jazz at Lincoln Center, working directly with JALC clinicians and artists.
• National Jazz Museum in Harlem – Get immersed in jazz history and listen to archived live jazz music from the greats, pulled from New York City radio broadcasts from 1935 -1941.
• Charlie Parker Jazz Festival – Each year the finest musicians from around the world come together to share musical talents and reflect upon the musical genius of Charlie Parker. Join us in this vibrant celebration of jazz artists, bent on promoting the genre for generations to come.
• Lincoln Center Visiting Band Workshops – Participate in customized workshops with your jazz ensemble at Jazz at Lincoln Center and work directly with JALC clinicians and artists.
• Wintergarden Entertainment at Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York-Presbyterian – Give back and share your musical gifts:  Performing groups provide enjoyment for patients and their families and put a smile on the faces of the children. Your live performance before an audience of patients is also broadcast on closed-circuit TV to all patient rooms.

Perform jazz charts among the warm breezes and palm trees, while enjoying the thrills of Disney and Universal Parks and the many educational clinics and performances the parks have to offer.

• The University of Central Florida – Orlando Jazz Festival – including Clinics, Master Classes, and performances by internationally acclaimed artists.

Performance Experiences

• Festival Disney – Every year in March or April, Disney hosts a series of performances and opportunities for adjudication (competitive and non-competitive options) at various locations throughout Disney’s four Orlando parks. Take your jazz ensemble for a spin with outstanding jazz ensembles from around the U.S.!
• Universal Studios – STARS Stage Performance Programs – Lead your jazz ensemble in a magnificent 30 minute performance at Universal CityWalk™’s covered Lagoon Stage, watched by park visitors.
• OrlandoFest This program includes a series of music festivals that run from March through early June at performing arts centers in close proximity to Universal Orlando Resort™. The festival concludes with a fun and exciting awards ceremony at Universal’s Islands of Adventure™. If participating in one of Universal’s Custom Workshops, your ensemble will experience a fast-paced, focused clinic at which they learn to play or sing together at a new level.

New Orleans

Fully immerse yourself in the history and dna of new orleans. with its deep roots in american jazz, this birthplace of the genre has a thriving music scene. walk down the streets and hear music ripple through the winding roads. have it wake your soul while you experience a distinct cultural and musical experience. from charles “buddy” bolden to louis armstrong, you will perform in the footsteps of legends in ‘the crescent city’..

• Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival – Check-out this festival presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation every October in Lafayette Square Park. This free event boasts two performance stages, a dozen of the best barbecue vendors in the region and a huge arts market.
• Satchmo SummerFest – In late July and early August there’s an annual festival honoring the great Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, the legendary jazz musician born and raised in New Orleans, whose raspy voice and instrumental skills are known far and wide. Satchmo is a beloved figure in New Orleans, and his influence on the genre of jazz, music in general, and the city of New Orleans is prevalent all across the Crescent City. The nominal daily admission of $5 (children 12 and under are free) helps support local musicians and pay for the event.
• French Quarter Festival – April – The award-winning French Quarter Festival is a four-day local music showcase scattered throughout the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana— the largest free music event in the United States. The festival features 1,700 musicians playing 400 hours of free, local music from a variety of musical genres on 23 stages throughout the French Quarter. The community festival also features the ‘Culinary Lineup,’ festival food booths operated by some of New Orleans’ finest restaurants, open throughout the festival weekend.
• Creole Queen – Mississippi River Jazz Cruise – Experience the sounds of Paddlewheeler Creole Queen’s trio of New Orleans’ BEST Jazz Bands while you enjoy great Creole food and dancing. Soak in the sweet Mississippi River breezes on the promenade deck as the city skyline slips by under a canopy of stars. This Jazz cruise is pure New Orleans!
• Crescent City Jazz Festival – Jazz Ed Network founding member Mary Jo Papich serves as artistic director for this dynamic festival for vocal and instrumental high school, college, and university jazz ensembles. Participating ensembles perform with New Orleans jazz musicians as soloists, and all participants benefit from clinics presented by top jazz professionals. Festival clinics and performances take place on Friday, and public performances in the French Quarter are arranged on Saturday. Each group receives a plaque and medals are awarded to outstanding soloists.
• New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park – Perform at this National Park’s various performance venues to showcase your group’s jazz skills. Don’t forget to bring your students to the Park’s visitors center for a free jazz history self-guided audio tour about the top eleven jazz history sites in New Orleans!
• The University of New Orleans – Enjoy a jazz clinic with Professor Brian Seeger. Sharpen your skills and widen your jazz knowledge.
• Tulane University – Reserve a jazz clinic with Professor Courtney Bryan, Assistant Professor of Music, Jazz Studies, and Jesse B. McBride, Professor of Practice, Jazz Studies, to sharpen your skills and widen your jazz knowledge.

Join the legacy of Seattle’s vibrant jazz scene! Long before grunge music took hold of the city, jazz had a strong presence, starting in the 1920s. Not a hidden gem anymore, jazz is booming in this city, rich with music history. Stars like Ray Charles, Ernestine Anderson, Quincy Jones and Jimi Hendrix got their start in the music industry thanks to jazz.

• Ballard Jazz Festival – Thanks to business and civic partners, the Ballard (neighborhood) Jazz Festival expanded from a single night’s, six club jazz walk in 2003 to four days of music involving 100+ performers and 15 performance venues. Enjoy the music, concerts, educational events and more!
• The University of Washington – The School of Music annually hosts numerous master classes and clinics led by accomplished artists, plus lectures, demonstrations, and supplementary learning opportunities led by scholars and educators from the world’s top educational foundations.

Are your jazz students ready for a once-in-a-lifetime United States jazz trip? Contact us today to being planning!

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Andrew Moran

Andrew Moran feels most at home on the road and in front of students. An alumnus of Warren Central High School and the University of Indianapolis, he was elected to the Indiana Music Education Association’s (IMEA) Board of Directors from 2010-2012 and was voted its Outstanding Future Music Educator in 2012. He has also received the National Professional Achievement Award from the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and the Outstanding Secondary Educator Award from the Indiana Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (IACTE). Andrew maintains an active teaching and performance schedule in the Indianapolis metro area and is currently the Low Brass Instructor for the 13-time State Champion and 3-time Grand National Champion - Avon Marching Black & Gold. While not on the road or teaching, he can likely be found in one of three places: on the golf course, on the water, or training for the next Walt Disney World Marathon. He resides in Avon, IN with his Golden Retriever, Denali.

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Top Destinations You Must Visit If You Love Jazz

There's nothing quite as intoxicating as enjoying a piece of jazz music while sipping on bourbon. Jazz truly captures the spirit of spontaneity and somehow adapts itself to any mood that you might be in. If you are a fan of the genre or have come around to enjoying it recently, we tell you how to plan a trip around it. With a history and journey that matches up to the genre's fluidity, there's no surprise that a lot of places around the world have embraced it and have added their own touch to it, giving rise to various sub genres, each with a distinct style. If you, too, are a fan of the greats like John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong and want to know more about jazz's evolution, plan a trip to these destinations.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA 

New Orleans, often referred to as the "Birthplace of Jazz," is a city steeped in musical history. It gave birth to jazz in the early 20th century, where African, European, and Caribbean musical traditions blended to create a unique and captivating sound. Visitors can explore the vibrant French Quarter, home to iconic jazz clubs like Preservation Hall, which has been preserving traditional jazz since 1961. Additionally, the annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, held in late April and early May, is a celebration of jazz, blues, and other music styles that attract both locals and international music lovers.

New York City, New York, USA

New York City has long been considered the cultural capital of the world, and its jazz scene is no exception. The city's jazz history dates back to the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s when legendary performers like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong revolutionised the genre. Today, venues like the Village Vanguard, Blue Note Jazz Club, and Birdland continue to attract top jazz artists from around the globe. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of jazz jam sessions and explore jazz exhibits at institutions like the Louis Armstrong House Museum and the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. 

Paris, France

Paris, known for its artistic legacy, has a rich jazz heritage that dates back to the 1920s and 1930s when American musicians found a welcoming audience in the City of Light. Legendary performers like Josephine Baker and Django Reinhardt graced Parisian stages, leaving an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape. Jazz clubs like Le Caveau de la Huchette, with its historic ambience, and Duc des Lombards, showcasing modern jazz, offer intimate settings for experiencing the genre's magic. The annual Jazz à la Villette festival is a highlight, featuring a diverse lineup of local and international jazz talents.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro's music scene is synonymous with samba and bossa nova, but jazz has also found a comfortable home in this vibrant city. The blending of jazz with Brazilian rhythms creates an exciting and unique fusion that resonates with both locals and visitors. The neighbourhood of Lapa is a hotspot for jazz, with numerous clubs and bars offering live performances. Places like the Rio Scenarium and the Blue Note Rio provide unforgettable experiences where the energy of jazz meets the infectious spirit of Brazil.

Chicago, Illinois, USA

Chicago played a pivotal role in the early development of jazz, especially during the Great Migration, when African American musicians brought their music from the South to the city's clubs and speakeasies. Today, the Chicago Jazz Festival, held annually in Millennium Park, pays homage to this storied history by showcasing a diverse lineup of jazz styles. Jazz lovers can also visit the historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, a Prohibition-era speakeasy that maintains its old-world charm and hosts live jazz performances regularly.

Havana, Cuba

Cuba's rich musical heritage is embodied in its Afro-Cuban jazz, a fusion of African rhythms and jazz improvisation. Havana, with its vibrant cultural scene, offers numerous jazz clubs and bars where talented musicians create captivating performances. Places like La Zorra y El Cuervo, located in a basement, offer an intimate setting to experience the soul-stirring sounds of Cuban jazz.

Tokyo, Japan

Surprisingly, Tokyo has emerged as a prominent hub for jazz outside the Western world. The city's love for jazz is evident in its many jazz bars, clubs, and cafes, each offering a unique ambience and range of musical styles. Some venues are dedicated to preserving traditional jazz, while others embrace fusion and experimental genres. Tokyo's jazz scene is not to be missed, and visitors will find themselves immersed in the passion and dedication of the Japanese jazz community.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, often associated with its vibrant techno and electronic music scene, might come as a surprise destination for jazz lovers. However, the city has a thriving jazz culture, focussing on avant-garde and experimental jazz. The Stockholm Jazz Festival showcases various jazz styles, attracting established artists and emerging talents. Venues like Fasching, Sweden's oldest jazz club, provide an authentic jazz experience in a city celebrated for its artistic innovation. 

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Travel Guide for Jazz Lovers

The wide-spanning genre of jazz, which is rooted in blues and ragtime, dates back over 100 years. National, regional and local influences throughout the United States and the world have shaped this music genre into various distinctive styles. In addition, the widespread development of jazz music has created plenty of destinations where visitors can listen to and enjoy performances characterized by styles such as the bluesy roots of jazz, swinging bebop, Latin-infused jazz or more modern offerings. Find out more about the world of jazz by browsing 40 of the best jazz-related resources online. Learn about famous musicians, historical facts, U.S. and worldwide destinations and entertaining jazz-filled podcasts.

General Jazz Resources

Find a glossary, timeline, audio files, historical facts and much more relating to the jazz genre in this section of general resources.

Jazz Resources Library  – From the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz comes this online library full of helpful resources. Find a jazz timeline, musician bios, audio snippets and much more.

Jazz Glossary   – Follow the link to find an alphabetized glossary of jazz terms, which is provided by The Center for Jazz Studies at Columbia University.

Jazz – The First 30 Years  – Learn about the first three decades relating to the history of jazz via this link that includes photos and helpful links.

Styles of Jazz Music  – Discover the 25 different styles of jazz music in this detailed two-page guide that includes a description of each style and its history.

JazzWorld.com  – Discover a “passionate online community” that brings together fans and artists all over the world.

Contemporary Jazz   – The contemporary jazz genre is the focus of this blog, which was at its peak between 1980-2000.

Elements of Jazz  – Explore new jazz music, learn about the current musicians and vocalists and more on this interesting blog.

Top 25 Jazz Events and Jazz Festivals in the USA  – Find names, short descriptions and links to the 25 best jazz events and festivals in the United States.

The Periodic Table of Jazz  – Check out this cool infographic that is organized by decades and includes almost every jazz artist of significance.

New Orleans Jazz Travel Resources

It doesn’t get much better than listening to jazz in the place where it all began – the birthplace of jazz. Find out where the best listening spots in the city are below.

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival  – Every spring, people can witness legendary and up-and-coming artists in the jazz genre via this annual festival.

Preservation Hall  – Immerse yourself in living tradition by taking in an intimate, acoustic jazz concert in the French Quarter at this historic hall.

Top 10 New Orleans Jazz Clubs  – This guide offers information about the top 10 jazz clubs in the city. Expect to find lounges, restaurants, listening rooms and more.

New Orleans Online  – Follow this link to find a search feature that will allow you to find jazz clubs or bars by name, dress code requirements or neighborhood location.

Chicago Jazz Travel Resources

Jazz is an important part of Chicago’s history and is still very much a part of the city’s culture today. Browse the links to find a jazz venue or event.

Chicago Jazz Venues  – This resource offers an alphabetical list of Chicago jazz venues, addresses, telephone numbers and links to each venue’s webpage.

Jazz Music Event Search  – Search for jazz music events all over Chicago by simply specifying a date and location.

Jazz Showcase  – Check out the oldest historic jazz club in Chicago, which is still a thriving hotspot for top international jazz stars and amazing local talent.

13 Best Jazz Clubs in Chicago  – If you’re planning on visiting Chicago to take in some jazz music, check out this list first to find out about the top jazz clubs in the city.

New York City Jazz Travel Resources

New York City is full of things to do and see, including amazing jazz performances. Learn about some of the best destinations in the city below.

The Best Jazz Clubs in New York City  – Live music venues about in New York City. Yet, you want the best. Find out where those venues are by following the link.

NYC’s Best Jazz Clubs  – From CBS New York comes six favorite jazz clubs, which range from small hideaways to large auditoriums.

Jazz NYC: The Best Places to Listen   – No matter what type of jazz music you’re in the mood for, you can find information about a great venue that meets your needs here.

Hot House Jazz Guide   – Make this link a go-to for finding helpful information about the best New York jazz clubs, concerts and festivals.

A Place for Jazz   – This site offers links to the months of the year where you can discover the location of different jazz festivals that are within a day’s drive of New York State’s Capital District.

Pittsburgh Jazz Travel Resources

This eclectic jazz destination might have you grooving in the streets. Check out the possibilities below.

Pittsburgh Jazz Live International  – This annual event offers a laid-back and inviting vibe with its mostly free concerts in the streets of the Cultural District.

Andy’s Wine Bar  – Located on Market Street, this wine bar doesn’t charge a cover and offers an experience that celebrates the legacy of Pittsburgh jazz.

James Street Gastropub and Speakeasy  – This family-owned bar and restaurant located in Pittsburgh’s historic Deutschtown boasts the best live and local jazz artists in Pittsburgh.

Top Places to Listen to Live Jazz in Philadelphia  – Find 24 jazz destinations mapped out in this birthplace of some of the jazz greats such as John Coltrane and Dizzie Gillespie.

Washington DC Jazz Travel Resources

A trip to the nation’s capital wouldn’t be complete without visiting at least one jazz venue. Check out some of the city’s best offerings below.

The Best Jazz Clubs in DC  – Discover 11 of the best jazz clubs in DC, which include lounges as well as historic music halls.

DC Jazz Festival  – Beginning in 2005, the DC Jazz Festival became a provider of jazz performances and programs that often serve as an introduction to the genre for students and adults.

Smithsonian Jazz  – Smithsonian Jazz at the National Museum of American History offers world-class collections, exhibitions, concerts, programs and more.

5 Jazz Venues in DC That Are the Bee’s Knees   – Step back in history or enjoy jazz in a more modern environment. Check out some of the best jazz venues in DC.

Jazz Travel Resources Outside of the U.S.

Planning to travel abroad? Utilize this section to find some of the best jazz destinations on the planet.

The 10 + 1 Best Jazz Clubs in the World  – While the first two jazz clubs on this list are located in the United States, the others span the globe.

Jazz in Havana  – Check out these four venues that stand out as some of the best among Havana’s thriving jazz scene.

10 of the Best Jazz Clubs in Europe  – Find well-written synopses that will give you information on the 10 best jazz clubs in Europe.

The 7 Best Jazz Bars in Amsterdam  – Back in the 1970’s, jazz clubs started appearing in Amsterdam, and many of those are still considered some of the best today.

The 20 Jazz Festivals around the World  – Discover 20 of the world’s best jazz festivals. Some are world-famous while others are lesser known but worthwhile.

Jazz Podcasts

From learning about the latest albums to discovering up-and-coming talent, these podcasts will keep you jazzed.

The Cool Jazz Countdown  – Get the weekly lowdown on the top jazz albums of the week on this podcast hosted by Marcellus Shepard and Kyle LaRue.

Piano Jazz Shorts  – Marian McPartland hosts this podcast that offers interviews and improvisations with some of the brightest stars in the world of jazz.

Jazz after Dark  – Join host Don Shor as he takes you on a journey through the many faces of jazz such as blues, ragtime and bebop.

In the Groove, Jazz and Beyond  – Listen to current and past jazz masters as well as those who are just making their mark in the modern jazz and fusion genre.

Smooth Jazz Affair   –  Check out this podcast, which is dedicated to broadcasting independent smooth jazz music.

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Great Places to See Jazz in Mexico City

The jazz scene in Mexico City is alive and well. So well, in fact, that knowing where to start can be a little overwhelming. The good news is the live music calendar offers something for all jazz fans, whether you’re a hardcore devotee or just dipping your toes into the genre. To help you find your groove, here are the top jazz spots in the Mexican capital, ranging from classy cocktail bars to atmospheric clubs.

Want to experience the very best of Mexico City? Join our expertly curated five-day trip around the Mexican capital . Led by a Local Insider, you’ll visit Frida Kahlo’s house, watch lucha libre, tour a local market, and listen to mariachis as you float down the canals of Xochimilco.

Zinco Jazz Club

Music Venue

Parker & Lenox

Parker & Lenox is a beautifully styled bar in the Juárez district, just north of the trendy Roma Norte colonia (neighborhood). It’s designed to look like a 1930s speakeasy, and offers a selection of artisanal beers and classy cocktails, plus live music most nights of the week. On top of the jazz, there’s a bit of blues and comedy nights (though the latter may only be enjoyable if you’re a fluent Spanish speaker). The venue does get busy, particularly on weekends, so book a table.

Pizza Jazz Café

A cocktail and jazz go rather nicely, but if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, hit up Pizza Jazz Café. Just a quick stroll from Metro Portales, this cozy pizzeria has a chilled atmosphere and showcases local talent. The walls are plastered in posters of music giants, such as John Coltrane, and all the delicious pizzas are named after famous jazz artists. And if you want to enter the Mexico City jazz scene yourself, there’s a popular jam night on Mondays with a welcoming crowd. Arrive early, this place gets rammed.

Casa Franca

Stylish and elegant, Casa Franca in Roma Norte envelopes you with a well-polished aesthetic and low lighting. The bar has a comfortable, laid-back vibe and hosts live music several days a week – anything from tango and funk to jazz and blues. And if you’re traveling on a limited budget, the lack of cover fees makes this a great option.

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Blue Nose has a jazz night on Thursdays run by the charismatic Diego Maroto, a jazz saxophonist from Mexico City. The gigs are held in his beautiful house near the idyllic center of Coyoacán, which lends a chilled, intimate atmosphere rarely found in commercial bars. This under-the-radar spot draws a warm, friendly crowd and there are drinks and home-made food to keep you going. Music whizz Diego programs top-notch jazz here, so if you’re interested in excellent grooves in a quirky venue, this is your place. Blue Nose is a private club, so you have to reserve. Once you’ve booked your place, knock on the big wooden door on the street and wait to be ushered in.

Pulquería Insurgentes

Pulque, an alcoholic drink made from cactus, can be an acquired taste. So combine your sampling session with a spot of jazz at Pulquería Insurgentes. Spread over three floors, this bar has a spacious roof terrace which hosts a range of live performances, DJs, talks, art workshops and even cinema showings throughout the week. On Wednesdays, there’s a free-to-enter live jazz night with great local players, styles ranging from fusion-funk to straight ahead. And if you want to stay up, there’s usually a DJ playing until the early hours, too.

If you’re a hardened jazz veteran, lover of experimental jams, or want to push yourself musically, Jazzorca is your go-to venue. Make no mistake, the music here doesn’t always make for easy listening – experimental free jazz can be intense and overwhelming to the untrained ear. But Jazzorca is a humble venue that doesn’t dress itself in a faux-swanky style, instead it entirely focuses on appreciating the music.

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the jazz playhouse Authentic New Orleans Jazz Club Experience 

Explore Upcoming

Jazz performances, find us in new orleans', jazziest neighborhood, the french quarter , nestled inside a historic hotel on bourbon street, the royal sonesta new orleans, the jazz playhouse brings you to the heart of big easy. awarded best jazz club in new orleans by where y'at magazine's best of the big easy..

Step Into The

Golden age of new orleans jazz.

Experience the soul-stirring magic of live jazz at The Jazz Playhouse. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or a casual listener, we offer an intimate setting where you can immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this historic and celebrated musical genre.

Small Bites and Craft Cocktails

With cocktails honoring historic jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong, and small bites inspired by Cajun & Creole cuisine, there’s a little bit of New Orleans for everyone to enjoy.

Private Events at The Jazz Playhouse

Host an intimate gathering,

be it an afterwork cocktail party or a birthday celebration, in the unique atmosphere of our historic venue.

Take over the entire venue.

From elegant work parties to themed personal events, host over 50 guests for a memorable Big Easy jazz experience.

Share the Music

Our delighted jazzers say.

Great ambiance, music and small bites! I really enjoyed BrassAHolics! They were amazing!

Dakisha W. Apr 23, 2023

Just came from a Jazz show here featuring the Nayo Jones experience and it was one of the best experiences altogether I’ve had with Jazz. Brilliant, powerful vocalist with a great crew and fun solos. If you get some food here, don’t sleep on the alligator bites. That pepper jelly is amazing. Char-grilled oysters nice too!  

Terry L. Apr 22, 2023

Great show! The location is inside the Royal Sonesta Hotel on Bourbon. I purchased my ticket through Eventbrite . And to my surprise, my seat was front row of the stage. Great drinks, bar service and band!

Wilda J. Jan 16, 2023

In town for my birthday and always go to the Jazz Playhouse to see the amazing Brass-A-Holics! A great jazz band!! They perform on Thursday nights at the Royal Sonesta Hotel Bar from 7:30 until 10:30. We love Winston, the band leader and best trombonist in New Orleans!! We always sit at the bar. Demarcus, our bartender, took great care of us & made amazing drinks! We always have a great time here. It is a great jazz spot in NOLA. You can dress casual or dress up!

Paige T. Aug 26, 2022

My wife said what would you like to do on your birthday? I said I want to have a Sazerac in my hand and listen to Jazz. Enter The Jazz Playhouse. There is a sensory overload when you visit New Orleans, there’s so much to do and see. I searched for Jazz clubs on Yelp as well as talking to the front desk at my hotel. The Jazz Playhouse checked all the boxes for us.

Bill S Oct 31, 2021

@jazzplayhouse

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The Jazz Playhouse FAQs 

When is The Jazz Playhouse open? 

We are open Wednesday through Sunday, 4:00 pm to 10:30 pm.

*Our hours may change during holidays. Please contact us for information.

When do the doors open and when is showtime? 

Doors open at 4:00 pm with Happy Hour from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, show time is typically 7:30 pm (7:00 pm on Fridays).

What do Happy Hour offerings at The Jazz Playhouse include? 

The Happy Hour offerings at The Jazz Playhouse include $5 house wine, $5 well cocktails and $8 bartender’s choice cocktails—ask your bartender about the daily offering.

Where is The Jazz Playhouse located? 

We are located in the lobby of The Royal Sonesta New Orleans at 300 Bourbon Street.  The entrance to the club is directly to the right when entering through the main Bourbon Street entrance of the hotel.

How can I reach the club directly?

You can reach us during normal operating hours by phone at 504-553-2299 or via email at [email protected] .

What type of cocktails do you specialize in? 

We specialize in classic cocktails inspired by the golden age of New Orleans jazz and put a classic twist on beloved cocktail bar staples.

Explore our drinks menu to find out more about our offerings!

Do I need a reservation to visit the Jazz Playhouse? 

Yes, admission to The Jazz Playhouse is by purchased event ticket only due to limited seating.

View our upcoming shows and purchase tickets 

Are tickets required to attend a show and what is included? 

Tickets are required to reserve a table for any show.  We do offer bar seating and standing room for walk-ins, which only requires a one drink minimum per person, per set.  Those spots are available on a first-come first-serve basis. The purchase of tickets includes a reserved table(s) for you and your party, your table(s) is to be held for 30 minutes after the start of the show before being considered a no-show.  No food & beverage is included with the cost of your ticket.

How do I purchase tickets? 

Through our Eventbrite page or in person at the Jazz Playhouse during normal operating hours.

How do I receive a refund for my ticket purchase? 

Refunds must be requested through Eventbrite.  There is a refund link at the bottom of the confirmation email you receive when purchasing the ticket(s).  Once your refund is approved you will receive a confirmation email from Eventbrite detailing the refund.  Refunds requested after the start of the show will not be approved.

What is the dress code at the Jazz Playhouse? 

We encourage smart casual attire. While we don’t enforce a strict dress code, we ask guests to dress appropriately for a sophisticated night out. We kindly ask guests to refrain from the following – short shorts, tank tops, flip-flops or beach wear of any kind. Jacket and cocktail attire preferred but not required, casual proper suggested.

Can I bring my own drinks and food?

No outside food or beverage is allowed, this includes birthday cakes and/or bottles of wine.  Birthday cakes can be ordered through our pastry department, please reach out to [email protected] to initiate an order.  Please allow a 2 week lead time on cake orders.

However, we offer a wide selection of craft cocktails, beers, wines, non-alcoholic drinks, and a variety of modernized Cajun and Creole classics.

Does the Jazz Playhouse serve food? 

Yes, we offer a curated menu of delectable appetizers and entrées crafted to complement your jazz experience.

Explore our food menu .

Is there parking available? 

Yes, The Jazz Playhouse visitors can use the Parking Garage of The Royal Sonesta New Orleans, located at 700 Conti Street/700 Bienville Street (between Conti and Bienville Streets).

Do I have to stay at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans to visit the Jazz Playhouse? 

No, our New Orleans jazz club is open to outside visitors as well as the guests of The Royal Sonesta New Orleans.

Is there an age limit? 

Yes, guests must be at least 21 years old to enjoy the show.  No minors allowed including those escorted by parents or guardians.

I would like to rent out the Jazz Playhouse for a private event, who do I contact to initiate this? 

Please reach out to [email protected] for all private event inquiries.  We offer in-house catering packages and are happy to assist with the booking of a band for your event.

How do I reserve The Jazz Playhouse space for my large group?

For groups of up to 30 people you simply purchase tickets for the group through our Eventbrite page .  The purchase of tickets for any size group will include a reserved section for your party.  For groups larger than 30 please reach out to [email protected] .  We do offer group discounts, please reach out to the above-mentioned email address for promo codes.

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J az Z en Journey

A unique travel opportunity with hosts Andrea and Steve Rudolph 

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A track less taken: Quick choices—this train, not that—can define a trip.

The Jazz of Travel

Real Travel

From the January/February 2012 issue of National Geographic Traveler

It’s September, Sunday, sunny. I’m alone at an outdoor café in the Pest part of Budapest. Arranged around my table are the essential elements for an afternoon’s contentment: a glass of wine, a slice of Sacher torte, a map, a railway timetable. On the street, a violinist plays one of Bartók’s Gypsy melodies. The vibrato from his violin feels as if it is penetrating my heart.

No, I’m not turning sappy; I’m savoring the perfect happiness that always overcomes me at a moment like this, when I’m fully immersed in travel.

I’m riding the rails in eastern Europe, on my way to Istanbul. I have never been there, and I can’t wait to see it. This afternoon, though, I have to figure out where I go from Budapest. I consult the map and timetable, and weigh my options: I could take an overnight train that runs east through Hungary into Romania, then south to Romania’s capital, Bucharest. Or I can take a train that runs south, through Serbia, then cuts to the east and drops me in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Both routes sound wonderful; both set me up equally well for that final train leg to Istanbul.

So then, shall it be Bulgaria or Romania? I am pondering this with my map spread out in front of me like a tablecloth when the man at the next table calls over.

“Where are you going?” he asks, in New York–accented English. The accent is a surprise; he looks so European with his mustache, shaggy hair, and well-worn tweed jacket.

“I don’t know,” I answer, laughing. “Are you from around here?”

“I’m Hungarian,” he replies. “But I lived in Queens 25 years. Now I’m back in Budapest. I do business and travel around the region.”

Well then, I say, maybe you can help me out. I explain my dilemma.

“Bucharest!” He shakes his head. “You will not like Bucharest.”

I’m a little shocked by his reaction. I press him for specifics.

“You go into the wrong neighborhood, could have trouble. But you’re from New York, so maybe you’ll be fine. Tell you what, I have an office there, I will give you my secretary’s number.”

He hands me his business card.

“Take this. When you get off the train in Bucharest, have a look around. You don’t like what you see, just take the next train out. You have trouble, call my office.” Then he shakes my hand, pays his bill, and leaves.

I sit holding his card, frozen with indecision. My moment of travel bliss has just evaporated; I’m feeling pulled right and left. Thanks to this random encounter, I now have a helpful contact and a backup strategy, both useful resources when you head to an unfamiliar city. However, the Hungarian gentleman’s take on Bucharest has unsettled me.

Tonight I’ll get on a train, but which? I take a deep breath, close my eyes, and do what I always do when faced with a difficult travel choice: I listen hard to music playing inside my head and try to tap into my travel rhythm.

I was a musician long before I ever traveled, and the skills I learned as a singer, especially improvising with phrasing and melody, have served me well on my travels. This is because a truly great trip is like a terrific jazz solo. Jazz musicians weave magic by making unexpected, playful choices in real time. And on a good trip, when my travel rhythms are “cooking,” I’m improvising too.

Traveling, when you think about it, is based on a series of decisions. Most of the major ones get settled before we leave home—where to go, how long we will stay, what our budget is, and so on. That’s our structure. But once we’re actually in a place, we make a never ending series of little choices that transform our experience. At the end of the boulevard, we may turn right or left. We may speak, or not speak, to that interesting-looking stranger. We can sit down at that little café or pass it by and try the next one around the block. Trip planning is the rehearsal, travel the performance. Every small choice that we make on the road changes our travel melody, shapes it into a song that is ours, and ours alone.

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This all happens in a split second. Life, like music, doesn’t pause while you plan your solo. It can be scary to improvise our own travel riffs. There always is some risk, from the trivial (ending up in a boring or unpleasant place) to the serious (getting into an unsafe situation).

Perhaps the worst risk, in the long run, is regret. Some years ago I rode down the Amazon River in Brazil on a public boat out of Manaus. We left at sunset; by nighttime all of the Brazilian passengers on the boat were dancing on the top deck, under the clear stars of a jungle sky. A girl named Patricia handed me a beer and asked, “Are you going to Parintins, too?” I had never even heard of Parintins. She told me the story of the river town, which every year attracts thousands with its massive carnival on the Amazon. There would be days of parades, dancing, and nonstop music. Patricia urged me to get off the boat with the crowd in the morning. I could stay on the floor of her sister’s place, she assured me.

I did not get much sleep that night.

Patricia’s invitation sounded wonderful, yet something inside of me hesitated. I was really enjoying the quiet flow of the boat cruise. If I got off, I mused, perhaps I wouldn’t find another riverboat as nice as this one on which to continue my journey down the Amazon. So when the boat docked at Parintins in the morning, I followed my internal travel rhythm and remained on board. I still wonder how the song would have come out if I’d played the other solo.

In the years since I passed up the carnival in Parintins, I’ve made thousands of travel choices, both big and small. Practice makes perfect—and the more you play the jazz of travel, the better you become at it. I’m still no John Coltrane, but I do feel a lot more confident when I’m improvising my travel tunes.

The musician in the café packs up his violin and departs. I pay my check and leave too. His performance is over; mine will end in Istanbul. In the meantime, I have a solo to play. I hum a few bars, head for the train station, and go.

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Ramblyn Jazz

Wanderlust addicts! Come Meander with  me... Casual budget travel

Welcome to Ramblyn Jazz. I'm a female traveller exploring the world, sometimes solo, sometimes with my ATB. Summers are spent on van life road trips around BC in Wanda, my campervan, while off-season I take my adventures international. Come meander with me ...

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Home » Jazz Musicians » Chris Barber Discography

Memories of My Trip

Chris Barber

Label: Proper American Released: 2012 Views: 4,490

CD1: Memories of My Trip; When Things Go Wrong; Do Lord Do Remember Me; Weeping Willow; Kansas City; Love Me or Leave Me; Can't Be Satisfied; Diggin' My Potatoes; Goin' Up the River; How Long Blues; Goin' Home; Oh Didn't He Ramble; Lonesome Road; I'll Be Rested; Precious Lord, Take My Hand; Couldn't Keep It To Myself; Another Sad One; CD2: St. Louis Blues/Missouri Special/St. Louis Blues; High Society; Rock Candy; Georgia on MyMind; Rose Room; C-Jam Blues; Tea Party Blues; Jack Teagarden Blues; Tailgate Boogie; Winin' Boy Blues; On the Sunny Side of the Street; Blues Stay Away from Me; Dallas Rag; 'Til the Next Time I'm in Town.

Additional Personnel / Information

Chris Barber: trombone, vocals, bass; Brownie McGhee: vocal, guitar; Sonny Terry: vocals, harmonica; Ottile Patterson: vocal; Paul Halcox: trumpet, vocal; Monty Sunshine: clarinet; Eddie Smith: banjo; Dick Smith: bass; Graham Burbridge: drums; Eric Clapton: guitar, vocal; Chris Stainton: keyboards; Dave Bronze: bass; Henry Spinetti: drums; Muddy Waters: guitar, vocal; Pinetop Perkins: piano; Bob Margolin: guitar; Calvin Jones: bass; Willie "Big Eye" Smith: drums; James Cotton: vocal, harmonica; Alexis Korner: guitar; Keith Scott: piano; Rory Gallagher: guitar, vocal; Lonnie Donagan: vocal; John Crocker: clarinet, tenor sax; Ian Wheeler: clarinet, harmonica; Johnny McCallum: guitar, banjo; John Slaughter: guitar, vocal; Vic Pitt: bass; Norman Emberson: drums; Jeff Healey: trumpet, guitar, vocal; Christopher Plock: clarinet, soprano sax, alto sax; Jesse Barksdale: guitar; Brian Graville: piano; Colin Bray: bass; Gary Scriven: drums; Van Morrison: vocal, harmonica, guitar; Paul Sealey: banjo; Colin Miller: drums; John Crocker: tenor sax, vocal; John Deffeary: clarinet, tenor sax; Dr. John: piano; Marlow Henderson: guitar; Reggie McBride: bass; Ollie Brown: drums; Paul Jones: vocal, harmonica; Alan "Sticky" Wickett: drums; Andy Fairweather Low: vocal, guitar; Andy Kuc: banjo; John Sutton: drums; Professor Alex Bradford: vocal; Jackie Flavelle: bass; Edmond Hall: clarinet; Keith Emerson: organ; David Langston: guitar; Lee Jackson: bass; Alan Turner: drums; Trummy Young: trombone, vocal; Sammy Rimington: alto sax; Roger Hill: guitar; Pete York: drums; Joe Darensbourg: clarinet; Richard Simmons: piano; Terry Knight: bass; Dave Evans: drums; Albert Nicholas: clarinet; Jonny Boston: tenor sax; James Evans: clarinet; Anton Fenech: guitar; Gary Simons: bass; John Whitfield: drums; Eddie Durham: trombone; Norman Emberson: drums; Sammy Price: piano; Keith Smith: trumpet; Sandy Brown: clarinet; Ruan O'Lochlainn: guitar; John Rodber: bass; Johnny Armitage: drums; Jools Holland: piano, vocals; Mike Henry: trumpet; David Horniblow: clarinet, tenor sax; Joe Farler: guitar; Mark Knopfler: guitar, vocal.

• Memories of My Trip by Chris M. Slawecki

Chris Barber Jazz & Blues Band -On Th... Next >

About Chris Barber Follow

Instrument: Trombone

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