Discover Live Jazz Venues and Concerts in Cincinnati
Jazz clubs in Cincinnati have a rich role in the city’s music history. In the 1920s, jazz lovers frequented Gennet Studios, attracting big-name jazz musicians and African American bands. Jazz became crucial to the Cincinnati club and music scene in the 1950s, and the genre has maintained popularity over time.
Today, Cincinnati remains a vibrant hub for live jazz. From cozy clubs to lively park concerts, the city offers a diverse range of venues that celebrate its rich jazz heritage. Seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike can enjoy Cincinnati’s jazz concerts for unforgettable experiences filled with rhythm, melody, and a sense of community connection.
The information in this article is current as of the publication date. Readers are encouraged to verify the information before taking action.
Featured Cincinnati Jazz Events
Emmaline: The Great American Songbook Reimagined
October 22, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
With lush vocals, timeless melodies, and Emmaline’s modern-retro charm, this will be an elegant evening of romance, nostalgia, and live music made for old souls and modern hearts alike.
Gerald Albright
November 13, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The GRAMMY‑nominated musician will bring his signature blend of smooth jazz, funk, and soulful improvisation to the intimate Cincinnati venue.
An Evening with Kenny G
November 15, 7 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Known for iconic hits such as Songbird, Forever in Love, and Silhouette, Kenny G has captivated audiences worldwide throughout a career spanning more than four decades.
Marion Meadows
November 27, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for his soulful melodies, contemporary jazz style, and chart-topping hits, Meadows delivers a captivating live performance that appeals to both longtime jazz enthusiasts and new listeners alike.
Mindi Abair’s I Can’t Wait For Christmas
December 4, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Joined by five exciting solo artists, Mindi delivers Christmas classics, fresh original songs, and heartfelt moments that will make you laugh, tear up, and leave with your heart full of the Christmas spirit.
Najee
January 16, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Renowned for his dynamic performances and signature blend of jazz, R&B, and soul, Najee has captivated audiences worldwide for decades.
Jose James Sings Sinatra with the Blue Wisp Big Band
January 27, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
The celebrated jazz vocalist explores the legacy of one of the greatest American voices of all time.
Marcus Miller
February 25, $7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Renowned for his virtuosic playing, genre-blending style, and collaborations with icons, Miller delivers a dynamic live performance that showcases the very best of jazz, funk, and soul.
Upcoming Cincinnati Jazz Concerts and Festivals
Jordan Pollard Trio
Jazz at the Park
October 5, 6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Queen City Cabaret
Jazz at the Park
October 12, 6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Daniel Bennett & the Dirty Shirleys
Jazz at the Park
October 19, 6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Dixie Karas
Jazz at the Park
October 26, 6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
A Tribute to Chuck Mangione
Big Band
October 29, 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt Lookout)
Starting at $20
Enjoy an exhilarating evening of his signature hits, including “Feels So Good,” “Children of Sanchez,” “Land of Make Believe” and more. Featuring the powerhouse CCJO trumpet section, this is a celebration of the infectious sound and timeless music of one of jazz’s most beloved crossover artists.
The Compositions of Harry Connick, Jr., feat. Jordan Pollard Trio
Jazz at the Memo
November 2, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
The Jordan Pollard Trio set their autumn sights on the work of Harry Connick, Jr. The acclaimed pianist, vocalist, actor and big band leader has composed original music his entire career, and this trio with help from special guest Josh Kline can’t wait to dig into his quirky and very swinging style.
A Tribute to the Jazz Masters: Jamey Aebersold
Jazz@First
November 8, 2 p.m.
First Unitarian Church (Avondale)
$26.50, a complimentary wine and cheese intermission is included with your ticket.
Featuring works by masters including Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and more, the concert will showcase Aebersold’s deep knowledge and passion for the music.
The Jazz & Blues Side of Chuck Brown, feat. Mike Wade
Jazz at the Memo
November 9, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Chuck Brown is well known for the driving Go-Go beats and heavy percussion in his songs and live performances. People who really know Chuck Brown, however, know that he was an incredible blues and jazz lover. Fortunately, he recorded quite a bit of music showing his love for the two.
Cool and Hot – The Singers and Songs that Inspire Me, feat. Pamela Mallory
Jazz at the Memo
November 16, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Pamela Mallory pays homage to the artists who have inspired her career, including Carmen McRae, Helen Merrill, Johnny Mercer, Mark Murphy, Ella the Great, Jobim, The Beatles, Paul Simon, Earnestine Anderson and more. To the stars and beyond!
A Tale of Two Big Bands:The Music of Gordon Goodwin & Jim McNeely
Big Band
November 19, 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt Lookout)
Starting at $20
Experience the full spectrum of contemporary big band jazz in an exhilarating tribute to two visionary artists whose music continues to inspire and electrify.
An Evening with National Guitars
Jazz at the Memo
November 23, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Experience a concert built around four vintage National resonator instruments that have been professionally restored to their original playing and sounding condition by their owner, Bill Hulsizer. Six celebrated Cincinnati guitarists take turns with a rhythm section throughout the night, rotating solos, duos and small combinations that let each instrument speak in a different setting.
Christmas with the Rat Pack, featuring Old Green Eyes
Jazz at the Memo
November 30, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Dan Radank, a.k.a. Old Green Eyes, and his quartet bring you Christmas with The Rat Pack. Come enjoy the holiday classics of Frank, Dean, and Sammy in the swingin’ style of a Cincinnati crooner.
A Brazilian Christmas
Jazz@First
December 6, 2 p.m.
First Unitarian Church (Avondale)
$26.50, a complimentary wine and cheese intermission is included with your ticket.
Featuring vibraphonist Rusty Burge and trumpeter Kim Pensyl, two of Cincinnati’s finest musical talents, this festive concert offers a fresh and exhilarating take on the sounds of the season.
Mandy Wishes You a Swinging Christmas
Jazz at the Memo
December 7, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Celebrate the swinging sounds of the season with world famous vocalist Mandy Gaines backed by the Eric Lechliter quartet. Holiday classics including arrangements from Ella Fitzgerald’s classic 1960 album “Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas” are sure to put you in moods both holly and jolly.
Jingle Jazz: Swingin’ Into the Holidays
Big Band
December 9 & 10, 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt Lookout)
Starting at $20
From selections from CCJO’s acclaimed 2025 album Nutcracker Remix to festive favorites featuring the incredible Mandy Gaines, including selections from Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas, this year’s concert is packed with musical surprises, holiday spirit and plenty of swing.
The Phil DeGreg Trio plays “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Jazz at the Memo
December 14 & 15, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
The Phil DeGreg Trio returns to Memorial Hall to present Vince Guaraldi’s iconic soundtrack to the beloved television program. The program will also include unique versions of other classic holiday songs to help everyone feel the spirit of the season.
Noisepolice presents Jazz Renderings on the Modern Christmas
Jazz at the Memo
December 21, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
The band’s holiday season entry will feature new interpretations and improvisations of spirited holiday favorites heard on the radio today.
Swingin’ the Blues and Hard Bop, feat. Five Little Bears
Jazz at the Memo
January 4, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Usher in a new year of jazz as veterans of the scene explore the hard bop genre of the 1950s and 1960s. Hard swinging, blues-infused and hip as can be.
From Gilberto to Gismonti: Estrada do Sol Celebrates Great Brazilian Composers
Jazz at the Memo
January 11, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Explores the depths of Brazilian music, celebrating well-known and lesser-known composers spanning decades. This concert will feature styles ranging from choro to samba, bossa nova to MPB.
Ron Jones Quartet presents the Mount Rushmore of Jazz Artists
Jazz at the Memo
January 18, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Ron and his quartet pay tribute to eight jazz musicians considered to be the great historical innovators and trendsetters of the medium: Armstrong, Bird, Miles, Dizzy, Ellington, Coltrane, Monk and Billie Holiday.
Brad Myers’ Love of Country Jazz Quintet: Cowboy Bossa Nova
Jazz at the Memo
January 25, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
An “open marriage” between the classic country and western swing songwriting of Hank Williams, Bob Wills, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and more; and the Brazilian rhythms and deeply lyrical compositions of Antonio Carlos Jobim.
Rick VanMatre and the No Rules Quintet
Jazz at the Memo
February 1, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Discover why Rick VanMatre’s compositions and improvisations break the rules as the quintet presents the unexpected, both powerful and sensitive. The quintet will perform tunes from its recent YouTube video releases.
An Evening with Mambo Combo – A Latin Jazz Experience
Jazz at the Memo
February 8, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Celebrating the classic mambo, Latin jazz and cha-cha of Tito Puente, Cal Tjader, Poncho Sanchez and Mark Levine, Mambo Combo has its compass set toward Cuba. Stocked with an all-star cast of Cincinnati-area musicians from the bands Tropicoso, ZUMBA, Mambo Diablo, Salsa Renegades and the Blue Wisp Big Band, Mambo Combo has also adapted a roster of compelling American jazz standards into the Latin jazz idiom.
Love Notes: A Jazz Valentine
Jazz@First
February 14, 2 p.m.
First Unitarian Church (Avondale)
$26.50, a complimentary wine and cheese intermission is included with your ticket.
Acclaimed Michigan jazz artists Paul Keller and Sarah D’Angelo bring their remarkable chemistry to beloved standards, unexpected gems and irresistible heartbreakers, joined by musicians from the CCJO for an evening that moves effortlessly from swooning romance to playful mischief.
A Tribute to the Trumpet Kings, feat. Now Hear This
Jazz at the Memo
February 15, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
An ensemble of the region’s top artists reimagines compositions by jazz greats, taking listeners on a journey through the fertile fields of world beat, funk and exploratory jazz music. Their performances are always organic and groovy!
Licensed to Swing: The Music of James Bond
Big Band
February 17 & 18, 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt Lookout)
Starting at $20
Joining the orchestra is the sensational Mandy Gaines, channeling Bond’s iconic vocalists—from Shirley Bassey and Gladys Knight to Adele, Tina Turner, Carly Simon and more—in a thrilling program featuring mostly brand-new big band arrangements created exclusively for these performances.
The Music of Oliver Nelson and Charles Lloyd, feat. Marc Fields
Jazz at the Memo
February 22, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
After discovering them in his high school years, longtime Jazz at the Memo contributor Marc Fields’ life was changed forever. The celebrated Queen City trombonist pays homage to wind player and composer Oliver Nelson and NEA Jazz Master Charles Lloyd.
“Jay & Kai Quintet” Rewind, feat. Carmon DeLeone’s Studio Jazz Quintet
Jazz at the Memo
March 1, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
After discovering them in his high school years, longtime Jazz at the Memo contributor Marc Fields’ life was changed forever. The celebrated Queen City trombonist pays homage to wind player and composer Oliver Nelson and NEA Jazz Master Charles Lloyd.
John Clayton: Big Band Legend
Big Band
March 4, 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt Lookout)
Starting at $20
A protégé of legendary bassist Ray Brown, Clayton has performed with Count Basie and Monty Alexander, served as principal bassist of the Amsterdam Philharmonic, and co-founded the powerhouse Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra.
My Foolish Heart: Songs of Love and Longing
Jazz@First
March 8, 2 p.m.
First Unitarian Church (Avondale)
$26.50, a complimentary wine and cheese intermission is included with your ticket.
Alongside Victor Young and Ned Washington’s “My Foolish Heart,” the program features beloved standards like Irving Berlin’s “Cheek to Cheek,” Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields’ “The Way You Look Tonight,” and Lerner and Loewe’s “On the Street Where You Live.”
Keigo Hirakawa Quartet
Jazz at the Memo
March 8, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Keigo Hirakawa Quartet is well-known throughout the Midwest for their willingness to be musically spontaneous on stage, exploring original compositions and redefining jazz standards to make it their own. Sought after for his articulate use of harmonic and rhythmic vocabulary and his leadership style on the bandstand, Hirakawa can be heard throughout the US and internationally.
Trophy Hunters, feat. Emily Grace Jordan
Jazz at the Memo
March 15, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Join longtime Jazz at the Memo mainstay Emily Grace Jordan as she returns to Cincinnati with a celebration of star-studded nominees and winners arranged for jazz quartet.
An Evening with Spherical Agenda
Jazz at the Memo
March 22, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Spherical Agenda performances are truly unique, exciting musical experiences. Featuring over two albums-worth of original compositions, they bridge the gap between classic fusion and the modern musical era in ways unique among contemporary artists.
The Music of Wes Montgomery, feat. The Carlos Vargas Quartet
Jazz at the Memo
March 29, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Known for his intimate and faithful tributes to his jazz heroes, guitarist Carlos Vargas and his top-notch quartet pay tribute to the legendary Wes Montgomery.
Paris in the Spring, feat. The Faux Frenchmen
Jazz at the Memo
April 5, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
The Faux Frenchmen return for what has become an annual Memorial Hall event, combining their own original compositions with their interpretations of classic Parisian Jazz, ca.1934-39.
Sonny Rollins Tribute
Jazz@First
April 11, 2 p.m.
First Unitarian Church (Avondale)
$26.50, a complimentary wine and cheese intermission is included with your ticket.
Chris Andrews takes up the tenor saxophone to bring Rollins’ iconic compositions—including “Airegin” and “St. Thomas”—to life, alongside songbook standards like “Just in Time” that Rollins transformed into vehicles for his legendary improvisations.
Where Jazz Meets Blues, with Ricky Nye Inc.
Jazz at the Memo
April 19, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Memorial Hall favorite Ricky Nye and his band honor the back-in-the-day music coming out of Kansas City and St. Louis: two cities that reflect the sound that happens when blues and jazz holds hands. A fun-filled evening featuring some very special guests.
The Phantastic Phil DeGreg
Big Band
April 22, 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt Lookout)
Starting at $20
Featuring brand-new big band arrangements of Phil’s music crafted by local writers and CCJO musicians, and experience the extraordinary catalog of one of the city’s true jazz treasures.
Dixie Karas – Tribute to Three Decades of Vocal Royalty
Jazz at the Memo
April 26, 7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Queen City grand dame and Jazz at the Memo favorite Dixie Karas pays homage to her musical heroes, including Tina Turner, Barbara Streisand, Bette Midler, Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and more.
Related Article: Midwest events, concerts, and festivals
Cincinnati Jazz Clubs and Venues
Bromwell’s Hearth Room
Live jazz Wednesday through Saturday
125 W 4th Street (Downtown)
In Cincinnati’s historic business district, Bromwell’s Hearth Room offers a coffee and cocktail program dedicated to the clasCaffè
Caffè Vivace
Live jazz Tuesday through Saturday
975 East McMillan Street (Walnut Hills)
513-601Caffè
Caffè Vivace is a coffee house by day and a jazz lounge by night. It provides a space for Cincinnatians to gather, work, socialize, and herald the musical art form of jazz. Tunes typically include early jazz, bebop, funk, swing-era melodies, and big bands.
First Unitarian Church
Hosts monthly jazz events
536 Linton Street (Avondale)
513-281-1564
The First Unitarian Church features a beautiful sanctuary equipped with a high-tech A/V system and other facilities available for rent. Catch the Jazz@First Chamber Jazz Series with the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra.
Fountain Square
Frequently hosts jazz events
520 Vine Street (Downtown)
513-621-4400
Fountain Square has a rich heritage as the center of Cincinnati’s civic, social, and commercial life. Today, it serves as the epicenter of downtown and the city’s central gathering space. Bands typically include a jazz piano, drums, trumpet, and sax with a tenor to accompany the music.
Japp’s – Since 1879
Check out their website for bands and days
1134 Main Street (Downtown)
513-381-0674
Japp’s OTR specializes in classic cocktails from the 1700s to the 1950s. The building’s history complements the bar’s focus on history.
Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge
Check out their website for bands and days
1432 Vine Street (OTR)
513-400-8624
Nostalgia is an intimate lounge inspired by Cincinnati’s rich musical heritage and the city’s historic gathering places of the past. A Black-owned jazz club often offers rhythm and blues, instrumentals, improvisation, and the sounds of big bands.
Related Article: Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week
Schwartz’s Point Jazz & Acoustic Club
Thursday – Sunday: Check the website for times.
1901 Vine Street (OTR)
513-208-4466
Like going to New York or Europe for the evening without leaving Cincinnati!
Enjoy live music, exquisite cocktails, hot (spiked) espresso, and delicious desserts at The Point. Many jazz greats have performed there, especially during Jazz Appreciation Month.
The Blind Lemon
Check out their website for bands and days
693 Hatch Street (Mount Adams)
513-241-3885
Offering live music seven nights a week and showcasing the best of Cincinnati’s vibrant local music scene. Sometimes, you hear a solo trumpeter; other times, you hear a jazz musician doing gigs around Cincinnati.
The Redmoor
Check out their website for bands and days
3187 Linwood Avenue (Mt Lookout)
513-871-6789
The Redmoor is the stage for some of Cincinnati’s most memorable weddings, events, and live music performances.
The Symphony Hotel and Restaurant
Friday and Saturday from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
210 W. 14th Street (OTR)
513-721-3353
The lounge offers live jazz and full food service from its award-winning kitchen. As a listener, jazz lovers will appreciate the sound and ambiance of this cozy venue.
Washington Park
Frequently hosts free jazz events
1230 Elm Street (OTR)
513-621-4400
From live music to exercise classes and kids’ activities, Washington Park offers a variety of free, family-friendly events for all ages.
Related Article: Things for African Americans to do this year
Jazz and blues are among America’s most significant cultural achievements. These genres unite people across the divides of race, region, and national boundaries. Let’s continue to embrace the magic of live jazz in Cincinnati and nurture our community’s love for this timeless art form.
Jazz fans can also follow the Cincinnati Jazz Community on Facebook to learn about jazz legends, new jazz musicians, emerging jazz artists, and jazz history.
If we have missed any upcoming Cincinnati jazz events or jazz clubs, please submit them to The Voice of Black Cincinnati calendar.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.
Cincinnati Jazz Venues photos provided by © [AS Photo Project] /Adobe Stock, © [BillionPhotos.com] /Adobe Stock, Cafe Vivace, Biography.com, CCJO, Ludlow Garage, Taft Theater
Nice article! As a jazz musician in town it’s always good to see things promoted! I would also like to suggest you add Bromwell’s Hearth Room at 126 W. 4th to your list of jazz venues. Live jazz Wed-Sat. Great sounding room, nice folks.