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 “We call it Jazz” in Portland is bringing a soulful show, inspired by NOLA’s street-style bars.
Taking place at Alberta Abbey, this performance will be available on selected dates over the coming months. Prepare to be equally dazzled and charmed by renditions of classics like “Freddie Freeloader”, “There Will Be Another You”, and many more!
What is “We call it Jazz”?
“We call it Jazz” 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.
Jazz, its story and the show
Born in the late 19th century in New Orleans among African-American communities, jazz blends African, European, and Caribbean musical traditions. Its key features include syncopation, expressive individuality, and improvisation, all thought to stem from the call-and-response technique often used by enslaved field workers. The genre’s first styles were blues and ragtime that paved the way for its emergence.
In Portland, “We call it Jazz” seeks to provide an authentic experience, mixing classic jazz songs like “Ain’t Misbehavin'” and “Cantaloupe Island” with spontaneous improvisation and solos. The soft lighting and New Orleans-inspired setting create an immersive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the music with a drink in hand.
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, “We call it Jazz” in Portland brings you a little taste of everything, including blues, ragtime, popular jazz and swing. Just know that there is limited availability so secure your spot today.