Charleston Jazz Series is a member supported organization formed in 1991 to promote the appreciation and availability of jazz music throughout the greater Charleston, WV region. Run entirely by volunteers, the organization sponsors live performances of world-class jazz artists at local clubs, hosts jazz workshops and other educational activities, and cultivates performance opportunities for local jazz musicians. Each year, Charleston Jazz Series brings top national and international jazz musicians to town for five memorable shows in jazz-club settings throughout the Kanawha Valley. At these intimate performances, audiences get close to the music and experience each jazz artist's unique musical personality. Though most performances feature mainstream approach to acoustic bebop jazz, Charleston Jazz Series also features cross-cultural, avant garde, and fusion jazz artists.
Shows are open to the public, with members receiving advance opportunities to make reservations.
Exceptional dinners are available prior to the shows for the perfect complement to a wonderful evening of music. Whether sponsoring workshops for young musicians in community centers and churches, bringing national jazz artists to after school programs, or screening films about famous jazz musicians, Charleston Jazz Series seeks to expose an ever-widening audience to the wonders of this rich artistic tradition. Local Jazz Scene Charleston Jazz Series is also committed to helping our local jazz artists obtain paying opportunities to play before appreciative audiences. Through hosting performances featuring local jazz artists and helping other create these opportunities at clubs, festivals, or private events, Charleston Jazz Series believes that our local jazz scene depends on a thriving network of local artists.