I saw this topic on another site and I was curious to see how the folks here might respond.
What do you think the ideal jazz club should be like?
Be realistic, be idealistic, be sarcastic, whatever you want. It can't possibly be successful, so please exercise your fantasy.
I'll get it started:
- Me, I like the idea of a place that serves food and alcohol. It does help the income considerably, and I don't mind the social atmosphere that accompanies such a scenario. I think a good "cuisine" concept can be very complementary to the vibe of the place. Perhaps a separate room for those who want to eat and be noisy, with the music happening in a space that's a little more secluded and at least a little more dedicated to listening, although food and drink would be available. Personally, I don't think it's necessary to create a museum-type silent listening environment, although my room manager would be empowered to shush the clueless. I don't mind bar blenders and a little conversation, but if you are there to talk, go hang at the bar (which would ideally be far from the stage).
My dad and I used to fantasize about buying the local abandoned train station, filling it with his train memorabilia (he was a avid model railroader) and serving up great barbecue, steaks, chili, onion rings, chicken wings etc. and first-rate jazz. Of course this was in a small town in Iowa, so it would have failed miserably, what with there being no audience for jazz there.
Other considerations:
- no smoking, not an unreasonable request these days
- first-rate sound system
- a well-maintained and decent quality piano
- a real stage, no "in the corner" location
- obviously, decent pay is essential, although it would be less of a deal-breaker if the venue and staff are music-friendly. Sure, I'd love to make a couple bills for a jazz gig, but in lieu of that I'd rather play with people I like to play with in a good environment. If I can have the last two things, money is a little less critical. The more the gig sucks, the more it should pay (that's the TUX/BUX/SUX formula).
- local/area/less known groups booked as well as the "big names"
- easy load-in/convenient parking
- clean, minimally funky bathrooms
OK, that's a start. Have at it.