Jazzland
When the club was founded in 1972, there was only a small local jazz scene. Today, the realm of jazz, thanks to the pioneering work of Jazzland, which always brought together international stars with Austrian musicians, is well established in Vienna and thriving more than ever.
The intimate, rustic jazz cellar under the Ruprechtskirche is the ideal setting to experience all the different styles of jazz live and up close at least six times a week. Practically every popular local musician has performed here. In addition, more than 300 stars from the US – among them such legends as Big Joe Williams, Little Brother Montgomery, Bud Freeman, Max Kaminsky, Teddy Wilson, Clark Terry, Benny Carter, Art Farmer, Ray Brown, Herb Ellis, and Lee Konitz have made guest appearances.
The club also serves excellent and authentic Viennese cuisine with a slight international touch.
Axel Melhardt (1943 - 2024), founder and director of Jazzland for an impressive 50 years, was proud to say:
“Vienna has finally made it – no other city in the world offers as many seats in jazz clubs in relation to its population as Vienna does.”
The Romanesque Ruprechtskirche dating from the 8th century is the oldest church in Vienna, and other musical events take place here just a stone’s throw from Jazzland, including early music in its original form as well as contemporary music and performance projects.
Here’s a tip for you: Porgy & Bess is also a home for jazz in Vienna.
