Columbia Jazz: Five Venues for Live Shows

What’s that sound slithering through the air on an intoxicating Columbia night? It’s an invitation to follow the source and treat yourself to something jazzy. If you never knew the capital city was also the jazz capital of South Carolina, consider yourself enlightened.

Not only is Columbia home to a clutch of dedicated jazz clubs, it is the headquarters of the ColaJazz Foundation. Founded by musician, composer, arranger and bandleader, Mark Rapp (aka the city’s “jazz ambassador”), the nonprofit has put jazz on the map here through public outreach, education, live performances and celebrations like the annual Main Street Jazz Fest.

Ready for some cool grooves from the best local and national acts? Settle in at one of these venues and let the rhythms carry you away.

The Joint @‌1710 Main

1710 Main Street, Downtown

The scene: Cozy and hip, The Joint pays tribute to the jazz and blues clubs of the 1940s. It is housed at the former site of Mac’s on Main, where legends like B.B. King and Ray Charles once played.
Food and drink: Enjoy a full bar and menu of small plates and entrees for dinner and weekend brunch.
Tail-notes: Musicians play on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, though weeknight appearances are sometimes scheduled. Cover charges sometimes apply.

The Aristocrat

1001 Washington Street, Downtown

The scene: The Aristocrat consistently serves up live jazz on Thursday and Friday nights in a historic circa 1909 building.
Food and drink: Offers a menu of gastropub eats and a full bar set up.
Tail-notes: Regular jam sessions draw jazz-loving locals. Watch their social media pages for special live performances. Cover charges may apply.

The Pastor’s Study

1633 Main Street, Downtown

The scene: The Pastor’s Study is a small wedding and event venue operating above the Lula Drake Wine Parlour. It offers an intimate listening room for acts presented as part of ColaJazz Foundation’s Loft Sessions.
Food and drink: Wine, beer, soda, water and light eats and sweets are included in admission price.
Tail-notes: Admission price is discounted for students and ColaJazz members. Concerts typically last two hours with a 15-minute intermission.

Chayz Lounge

607 Meeting Street, West Columbia

The scene: Chayz Lounge is where jazz lovers go for a refined live music experience. Local talent as well as an exciting lineup of musicians and bands from across the country take the stage here.
Food and drink: Dining is part of the Chayz Lounge jazz and supper club experience so prepare to be impressed with everything from cocktails to the night’s culinary offerings.
Tail-notes: Some performances require a cover charge. Reservations are mandatory and a dress code is enforced.

Koger Center for the Arts

1051 Greene Street, Columbia

The scene: The Koger Center on the University of South Carolina campus is a concert, performance and sporting event hub. It is also the home of Live in the Lobby, a jazz series presented each year in conjunction with the ColaJazz Foundation.
Food and drink: Bar service and snacks are available prior to performances.
Tail-notes: Tickets must be purchased in advance. Discounts apply for ColaJazz members, students and military personnel.