From Your Local Arrangements Committee -
The Chicago Jazz Scene
Herbert H. Stenson

Jazz isn’t dead – at least not in Chicago. The long tradition of Chicago jazz continues at a large number of venues. Below are a few spots that deserve special mention, but you can view a comprehensive list of the latest happenings on Chicago’s premier Jazz entertainment and booking resource http://www.chicagojazz.com.

Joe Segal’s Jazz Showcase is one of the oldest jazz clubs in the country. Open seven nights a week, Joe Segal’s features a mix of nationally-known performers and excellent local bands. It is located on the southern edge of the loop (Chicago’s downtown area) and is within walking distance of the conference hotel. Visit http://www.jazzshowcase.com/ for contact information and other details.

Another all-jazz, all-the-time place is Andy’s Jazz Club, located just north of the loop. Incredibly, they have jazz at lunchtime from noon until 2:00 p.m., another band for happy hour from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and yet a different band from 9: 00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. every day. The food is first-rate and the ambiance is that of a real “jazz joint”. Check out http://www.andysjazzclub.com

Another venue for jazz seven nights a week is the Green Mill on Chicago’s north side. They have a large swing band and dancing on Thursday nights. Green Mill was a hangout for the Al Capone gang, and the 1930’s décor hasn’t changed since those infamous days. Visit http://www.greenmilljazz.com for more information.

Katerina’s, also on the north side of Chicago, is an eclectic music venue that serves excellent food. Katerina’s features music ranging from Greek folk music, to string quartets, to re-creations of the Hot Club of Paris, depending on which night you happen to visit. Visit the Web site at http://www.katerinas.com

Have a swingin’ good time in Chicago!

For more information about things to do in the Chicago area please contact Jonathan Keiser (jkeiser@colum.edu), Local Arrangements Committee Chair for the 2010 AIR Forum.