Live music makes Kansas City shine

April 6, 2015 • Village News

Kansas City has a lot going for it. We have barbecue, world-class museums, kind people, a thriving arts scene, and oh, did we mention barbecue?

Our fair city is also a hotbed of live music and a major player in the jazz scene. Since April is Jazz Appreciation Month, there’s no better time to check out some of the live-music gems around Kansas City.

• The Blue Room – This club at 18^th and Vine offers live jazz almost every day. It’s part of the American Jazz Museum, and features both local and national jazz musicians. Blue Jam Monday is your chance to bring your instrument and join in.
• The Phoenix – Local music is the name of the game at this long-time favorite. Located in the heart of downtown KC, The Phoenix was once a seedy hotel and speakeasy. Now, it’s a restaurant and club known for a variety of local music and its infamous Saturday Jazz Brunch.
• Mutual Musicians Foundation – Located in the heart of the jazz district at 18^th and Vine, the Foundation acts as a rehearsal space and classroom. But on Friday and Saturday nights after midnight, the space hosts jam sessions that last well into the early morning hours. These jams have been a tradition since 1930.
• Green Lady Lounge – Kansas City’s jazz tradition is alive and well at this club at 18^th and Grand. Green Lady offers live jazz 7 nights a week and has 2 elegant performance spaces. While the club offers beverages and 2 simple food plates, patrons are welcome to bring in food.

And if you haven’t visited the American Jazz Museum, it’s a must-see for any Kansas Citian. In addition to The Blue Room and Gem Theater, the museum also offers exhibits, programs, and events. All programming focuses on jazz and the role Kansas City has played in this uniquely American art form.

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