Hey there. I just moved to the city and am 19 years old. Most of the jazz around is boasting a 21+ crowd. How can I see awesome music in this city while being honest about my age? Any tips on where to go?
I am a culinary student and my dream is to own a jazz restaurant. I need to start seeing music around these parts....soooon...I'm going through withdrawl coming from a town where I was a regular at the local jazz club.
Thanks!
-Ashley
Places to hear jazz while under 21
The jazz series at Symphony Center is wonderful. If you sit in the gallery, as I do, the tickets are modestly priced, and you can still see and hear well. In the summer, there is a free Chicago Jazz Festival in Grant Park and there are often free jazz concerts in Millenium Park. The Chicago Cultural center offers free concerts throughout the year - many types of music.
The Jazz Showcase is expected to open soon in Dearborn Station - they offer a matinee on Sunday which welcomes young people. You are supposed to be accompanied by a parent, but if you act civilized and come with someone over 21 who seems like a suitable chaperone, I don't think you will run into any resistance.
Watch the Jazz Institute calendar for concerts in halls where liquor is not served - there are many opportunities for a young person to enjoy jazz in Chicago.