Jazz and Montreal have a long-standing love affair. From the 1920s to the 1950s, it was the nerve center of jazz in North America, with the United States in the throes of Prohibition. And while the Festival de Jazz perpetuates this heritage, the spirit of this iconic musical genre also comes alive in Montreal’s We call it Jazz concerts, which bring together the best tunes and the intimate ambience of a New Orleans club.
It’s in the intimate Piccolo, in the basement of the Théâtre Rialto, that this show will come to life. With its hushed space, corner bar and jazz tunes, you’ll almost think you’re in the middle of Prohibition. It’s the ideal place to welcome the madness of this musical genre for a groovy concert.
What is “We call it Jazz”?
“We call it Jazz” offers you a 60-minute escape into the atmosphere of a typical 1920s New Orleans street bar, hosted by talented musicians. Illuminated by a floor lamp typical of the era, the stage will light up, and a carefully chosen selection of jazz classics, featuring iconic tunes like Fats Waller ‘s“Ain’t Misbehavin” will seduce you a little more with every note.
Jazz, its history and the show
Born in New Orleans among African-American communities, jazz blends African, European and Caribbean musical traditions. Its distinctive characteristics include syncopated rhythms, individual expressiveness and, above all, improvisation, which were already present in blues and ragtime, the precursor genres of jazz.
We call it Jazz captures this authenticity, combining classics such as Fly Me To The Moon, Georgia On My Mind and Summertime with improvisation and instrumental solos. The New Orleans ambiance, with its subdued lighting and the possibility of enjoying a drink while listening to the concert, will offer you a unique immersive experience.
There’s plenty to do in Montreal, We call it Ballet but this time it’s We call it Jazz that completes the musical offering with concerts that will plunge you into the atmosphere of New Orleans jazz clubs of the 20s. Treat yourself to the evening you deserve, and arrive early to get a good seat, as doors open 30 minutes before the concert starts.