Are you a toe-tapping, jazz aficionado? Or, maybe you’ve just discovered the works of John Coltrane and Charlie Parker. Either way, there are so many jazz destinations around the world where you can get your groove on. From the cozy corners of historic neighborhoods to active city streets, jazz culture thrives across the globe. There’s just something magical about experiencing jazz in its many forms — especially when you’re abroad.
So get ready and join us on our journey to different continents, countries, and cities around the world that are known for their outstanding jazz scenes and festivals.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Often considered the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans is home to the famous New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, held annually at the Fair Grounds Race Course. Check out the historic Preservation Hall, a legendary venue in the French Quarter that’s dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans jazz. Next, take a stroll down Frenchmen Street, where vibrant music clubs like The Spotted Cat Music Club and Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro offer live jazz performances every night of the week.
Explore the city’s musical heritage at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, located in the Old U.S. Mint building. Whether you’re grooving to the beat of a brass band in Jackson Square or catching a late-night jam session at a local dive bar, New Orleans offers a lively and unforgettable jazz experience for music lovers of all ages.
Montreal, Canada
DSC00400 – House of Jazz by Dennis Jarvis licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
In Montreal, tap your way into the world of jazz at the renowned Montreal Jazz Festival, held in various destinations across the city including Place des Arts and Club Soda. Enjoy performances by world-class musicians amidst the jazzy atmosphere of Quartier des Spectacles. When you walk through the busy streets of the Latin Quarter, you’ll find busy bars and cafes showcasing local talent. Take advantage of the city’s jazz scene beyond the festival, with intimate performances at Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill or highly-rated Diese Onze.
Appreciate the fusion of jazz and Montreal’s multicultural influences at the Maison du Jazz or Bistro a Jojo. Whether you’re jamming out to swing music in a cozy club or enjoying a free outdoor concert in the city’s parks, Montreal offers an extraordinary jazz adventure for music enthusiasts from around the world.
Cape Town, South Africa
George Benson in Cape Town by Andre-Pierre du Plessis licensed under CC by 2.0
You may not think of Cape Town as a jazz haven, but the capital of South Africa has plenty of soul. Get in on the jazz frenzy at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, which is normally held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre and Greenmarket Square. This festival draws a large crowd, and also modernizes jazz in an innovative way. Enjoy performances by local and international jazz artists against the backdrop of Cape Town’s stunning skyline.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the District Six Museum, which often hosts jazz events and exhibitions. Enjoy a sophisticated night of live jazz, canapes, and espresso martinis at The Blue Room at Grub and Vine. Or, relax and unwind at Urban Soul Café & Jazz Bar. Whether you’re sipping cocktails while listening to smooth jazz or dancing to the beat of a live band, Cape Town is a great pick for jazz lovers.
Paris, France
When you come to Paris, you’ll learn all about the city’s rich jazz history at iconic spots like Le Duc des Lombards and Le Baiser Salé. Join the festivities at the annual Jazz à la Villette Festival, which takes place in the scenic park of Parc de la Villette. The festival offers an educational take on the genre, and celebrates past jazz superstars from Nina Simone to Charlie Parker. Afterward, take a romantic and leisurely stroll along the Seine River, where you can often catch street musicians playing jazz tunes.
Next, head to La Bellevilloise in the famous neighborhood of Belleville, known for its eclectic music culture and smaller jazz performances. They even offer a Jazz Brunch every Sunday at the café restaurant, where you’ll be surrounded by indoor gardens and lovely olives trees. Sip wine at a cozy jazz bar like Sunset/Sunside or enjoy a live performance in a bustling jazz club like Le Caveau de la Huchette.
New York City
Celebrate your love of jazz in New York City at Smalls Jazz Club in Greenwich Village and Birdland Jazz Club in Midtown Manhattan. There’s always a great lineup at the Winter Jazzfest, which takes place in different places around the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Want to be where Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and James Brown all once stood and performed? Head down to Harlem, where you can visit famous jazz landmarks like the Apollo Theater and Minton’s Playhouse.
You can also discover the magic of jazz in NYC at intimate spots like Mezzrow Jazz Club and Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at Lincoln Center. Lastly, head down to Brooklyn, which also boasts an impressive jazz scene. Bar LunÀtico and ShapeShifter Lab frequently hosts live performances by local and international artists. Whether you’re catching a late-night jam session or enjoying a world-class performance, New York City offers an amazing time for jazz fans.
London, England
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club by Takahiro Kyono licensed under CC by 2.0
Embark on a journey through London’s jazz craze by discovering renowned bars like Ronnie Scott’s in Soho and the Vortex Jazz Club in Dalston. Visit the annual EFG London Jazz Festival, which showcases performances at popular sites such as the Royal Festival Hall and the Barbican Centre. Take a stroll through Camden Town, where you can find smaller jazz bars like the Jazz Club and The Forge.
Don’t miss the Greenwich area, home to the Late Night Jazz at the Philharmonic series at the Royal Albert Hall. This venue allows up-and-coming artists to demonstrate their skills to a large audience of jazz fans. Next, learn more about contemporary jazz culture at Jazz Café Posk and Kansas Smitty’s in Shoreditch. Whether you’re enjoying a laid-back evening of smooth jazz or dancing to the rhythm of a lively ensemble, London has it all.
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Melbourne, Australia
[Estampa at Melbourne Street Green by Allan Henderson licensed under CC by 2.0]
In Fitzroy, check out The Jazzlab, named “the world’s best jazz club” by Lonely Planet. Or, head to The Night Cat, which is one of Fitzroy’s most enduring stages and a beloved staple in the local music scene. You’ll enjoy Domingo Latino Sundays and concerts by both local and international artists. To end the night, head to Memo Music Hall in St. Kilda, which has been around since 1920. Or, check out the Jazz Corner Hotel in Richmond for a more luxurious vibe. Melbourne offers a thrilling and varied array of shows for both jazz aficionados and those new to the genre.
FAQs:
Q: How can I find out about upcoming jazz events in these cities?
A: Check online event listings, city tourism websites, or local jazz club websites for information on upcoming jazz performances and festivals.
Q: Are there any free jazz events I can attend?
A: Yes, many cities offer free outdoor jazz concerts in parks or public squares during certain times of the year. Check the local event calendars for details.
Q: Can I purchase tickets for jazz festivals in advance?
A: Yes, it’s advisable to purchase tickets for jazz festivals in advance, especially for popular events. Tickets can often be purchased online through the festival’s official website or through authorized ticket sellers.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for attending jazz events in these cities?
A: Age restrictions may vary depending on the venue and event. While some jazz clubs may have age restrictions or require patrons to be accompanied by an adult, many festivals and outdoor concerts are family-friendly and open to all ages.
Q: Can I purchase jazz recordings or merchandise at these destinations?
A: Yes, many jazz clubs and festivals offer merchandise sales, including CDs, vinyl records, t-shirts, and other memorabilia. Additionally, some cities have specialty music stores or record shops where you can purchase jazz recordings and merchandise.
Which of your favorite jazz locations did we leave off our list? Tell us in the comments section below!
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