Brisbane’s history with jazz goes all the way back to the 1920s. Legendary venues like Cloudland and the Ritz would host iconic jazz shows that quickly became the hottest tickets in town. Now, ‘We call it Jazz’ in Brisbane is coming to set the city alight with soulful live music performances taking place inside a street-style bar. From classics by Sinatra and Davis to groovy improvisations, the evening’s setlist features tunes that will transport audiences straight to NOLA’s jiving jazz bars.
On selected dates over the coming months, Grand on Ann will be hosting this funky live music show that features songs like “Sing Sing Sing” and “Fly Me To The Moon”. Located inside Masonic Memorial Centre Freemasons, the building itself is a heritage-listed venue with Queensland timbers and gorgeous interiors. Tickets are on sale now but spaces are limited, so make sure you get yours today.
What is ‘We call it Jazz’?
‘We call it Jazz’ delivers a mesmerising 60-minute tribute to one of music’s most celebrated genres, recreating the intimate ambiance of a 1920s New Orleans street bar. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a fully immersive journey where talented musicians perform a thoughtfully selected repertoire while embracing the genre’s improvisational heart. From the spirited “When The Saints Go Marching In” to the soulful “Georgia On My Mind,” the setlist captures jazz’s diverse emotional palette while you relax.
Jazz, its story and the show
Jazz emerged as a revolutionary musical form in early 20th century New Orleans, blossoming from the creative fusion of African rhythmic traditions, European harmonies and Caribbean influences within African-American communities. The genre’s distinctive characteristics—syncopated rhythms, expressive individuality, and fearless improvisation—grew from precursors like blues and ragtime to create something entirely new.
The show brilliantly captures this evolution, beginning with New Orleans classics before transitioning into sophisticated instrumental improvisations over “Cantaloupe Island” and “Freddie Freeloader.” The experience culminates with beloved vocal standards including “Fly Me To The Moon,” “Summertime” and “All Of Me,” with each musician taking centre stage for featured solos. Throughout the performance, the carefully crafted ambiance transports audiences back to the golden age of jazz.
Let the live music take you on an unforgettable journey to NOLA this season at ‘We call it Jazz’ in Brisbane. There will be two performances on the night starting at 6:30pm and 8:30pm so you can choose the performance that best suits your schedule. Tickets are sold in tiers and seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in each zone.