Minton’s
206 W 188th St
New York, NY 10026
Home of jazz, ooh lala! That’s Harlem! Famous for the creation and development of jazz music. While many clubs opened during the jazz era have closed down, a few of them have withstood the test of time. However, that doesn’t mean the road was easy. Minton’s Playhouse, known for cultivating some of the world’s most beloved jazz musicians, is one of those famous clubs that is still around. Although it had a 30-year period from 1974-2006 where it was closed, Minton’s re-opened to allow us modern folk the experience of a jazz club.
Founded by Henry Minton in 1938, the club became famous for its ham sessions which included performances from Thelonious Monk, Kenny Clarke, Charlie Parker, and so many more. The idea was that there was no set list, but rather a house band. Artists were given a place to play their music and get free food, but only if they could keep up with the band. There would be trumpet battles between the greats and their prodigies all night long. Minton’s and its artists helped to create bebop and was the start of modern jazz music.
This jazz club has helped people of the 21st Century stay connected to the roots of some of the world’s most famous music. Also, it sits in the home of Harlem, the birthplace of jazz, and gives current residence a chance to feel what it must have been like 75 years ago. It is one of the most timeless places in New York City and reminds us of what inspired so much music that we hear on the radio every day. Without Minton’s so many jazz classics would not have the legacy’s we know them for. Head on over here to experience history and amazing music from today’s stellar jazz musicians.
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