Similar to other cities in the West Coast, Portland witnessed its jazz boom during the ’40s and ’50s as the demand for workers in the shipyards rose and other wartime industries brought African Americans to the city. Soon after, Williams Avenue became the genre’s epicenter where the cool cats would hang out and enjoy some groovy tunes. You won’t need to sit and wonder what that experience could be like as “The Jazz Room” in Portland is bringing a soulful show, inspired by NOLA’s street-style bars.
Taking place at Alberta Abbey, these performances will be available on selected dates over the coming months. Whether you like to hear the greatest hot jazz hits, enjoy moving soul tunes or prefer artist-focused tributes, prepare to be equally dazzled and charmed by renditions of classics like “Freddie Freeloader”, “Fly Me to the Moon”, and many more!
What’s on at “The Jazz Room” in Portland?
The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans
Richly woven with instrumental solos and spontaneous interplay, The Jazz Room’s homage treats guests to the very spirit of jazz’s birthplace. The setlist—filled with hits like “When The Saints Go Marching In”—reminds audiences how improvisation is the lifeblood of jazz, infusing every note with excitement.
The Jazz Room: A Frank Sinatra & Louis Armstrong Tribute
It’s only right to celebrate two of music’s greatest legends, Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong, in style, and The Jazz Room is just that. Entailing tributes to songs that shaped not only jazz, but every genre of music, the setlist swings from Sinatra’s signature style in “Fly Me To The Moon” to Armstrong’s legendary voice and trumpet talents in songs like “When You’re Smiling”. The Jazz Room offers an unforgettable evening that honors their enduring influence on music history—inviting audiences to sit back, tap their feet, and let the golden age of jazz come alive once more.
What is “The Jazz Room”?
“The Jazz Room” is a musical journey to a 1920s New Orleans street-style bar, where a curated set list of jazz classics comes to life. Over the course of 60 minutes, talented local musicians offer renditions of timeless favorites, including “Georgia On My Mind” and “Sing Sing Sing”, alongside impromptu solos as a vintage street lamp illuminates the stage. You can unwind to smooth, smooth tunes after a long day as you sip on your favorite drink.
The Jazz Room Reviews in Portland
The Jazz Room has garnered rave reviews from attendees, who’ve praised the musicians, the vibe and the talented vocalists.
“Wonderful talent from musicians to singers” – January 22
“Absolutely fabulous jazz musicians and singers! We loved their performance so much! Thank you! ☺️ 🎶🎵🎶☺️” – January 22
“The concert was amazing. Loved the venue.” – January 22
“Wonderful evening of jazz from a very talented band! Intimate and fun venue.” – January 22
“Had a great time 😊” – October 5
What is jazz all about? Herbie Hancock said that it was about “being in the moment”. Similarly, to Keith Jarett, the genre was “there and gone. It happens”, whereas according to Dave Brubeck, jazz is freedom. Whatever jazz means to you, The Jazz Room in Portland brings you a little taste of everything, including blues, ragtime, popular jazz and swing.
These shows take place at Alberta Abbey, a popular event venue known for burlesque shows. The show lasts one hour and there are typically two back-to-back sessions offered each date. Just know that there is limited availability so secure your spot today.