The Jazz Gallery

Oct 16, 2017

Jazz rhythms reverberate throughout history, influencing rock, rap and every other musical genre. Modern culture is indebted to the gratifying ache of the blues, bebop's eccentricities and soulful swing tunes. And though it helped shape movements, challenge rhythmic rules and bring bodies together on the dance floor, it isn't appreciated as much as it should be.

But places like The Jazz Gallery help respect and sustain the genre. Located in Chelsea, the space cultivates emerging talent and showcases it to the community. In 1995, founders Dale Fitzgerald, Lezlie Harrison, and Roy Hargrove envisioned it to be a home for jazz players from all over the world. Today it emulates that exact ethos, offering resources for emerging/existing musicians and events for fans to enjoy their work.

The gallery's four primary programs include 21st Century Jazz, which showcases the artists, and Residency Commissions which supports new work by existing composers. They also have a Mentoring Program, that pairs eager new talent with veterans and The Woodshed which offers free rehearsal space to jazz artists around the city.

With over 300 events put on annually, there are plenty of opportunities to see jazz purveyors perform. Some past inhabitants include Ambrose Akinmusire, Darcy James Argue, John Escreet, Linda Oh and John Ellis, along with noted saxophonist Ravi Coltrane and composer Lee Konitz.

Though they're extremely established in New York's jazz stratosphere, the space is available for everyone interested, even if they're unfamiliar with the genre. More information and an event calendar can be found on their website — so there is no excuse to deny yourself some educational immersion.

© 2017