When you think of the Richmond music scene, is jazz the first genre that springs to mind? With International Jazz Day coming up on April 30th, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at the important role that Richmond has played in the development of jazz music. Some of the best jazz musicians in history have called Virginia home at various points in their careers, and many more have put on legendary shows at some of Richmond's historic music venues. Our real estate agents have the exciting details on how Central Virginia has helped shape jazz music, and where you can learn more about the history of jazz in the area.

International Jazz Day: The History of Jazz in Richmond

• The Richmond Jazz Society and the Preservation of Music History
  If you want to learn more about the history of jazz near Richmond homes for sale, then the Richmond Jazz Society is the perfect place to start. Founded in 1979, the Richmond Jazz Society has been working ever since to shine a light on the hidden history of jazz in the city, and share those unique stories with the world. You can find their exhibits at local museums, music venues, and points beyond. It would be impossible to tell the story of jazz in Richmond without the contributions of this unique local organization.

• Making Music and Making History
  In addition to sharing stories, the Richmond Jazz Society has made some musical history of its own. The organization started less as a place to preserve jazz history and more as a destination for local jazz musicians from a wide variety of backgrounds to jam together. The first sessions were held at a local fish market, with talented Richmond musicians gathering to celebrate their love of jazz by playing music together. Of course, these musicians had a deep knowledge of local jazz history and loved sharing unique stories of the Richmond jazz scene. Over time, the organization evolved to focus more on the preservation of jazz history through educational exhibits, live shows, and a strong devotion to uncovering the hidden stories of the local music scene.

• Virginia Jazz: The Early Years at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia – 122 W Leigh St., Richmond, VA 23220
  In the past, it would have been hard to discover the early history of jazz in Richmond without talking directly to the people who lived it. The Richmond Jazz Society has decided to change that, by creating an exciting exhibition called "Virginia Jazz: The Early Years" which can be found at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. This exhibition weaves together more than a century of local jazz history through multimedia exhibits that bring that history to life. After its run at the Black History Museum, the exhibition will be hitting the road to share jazz history with new audiences.

• The RJS "Make Music With Me" Band Brings Jazz to a New Generation
  Of course, one of the best ways to experience local jazz history is to experience the music first-hand, and the Richmond Jazz Society has created a unique way to bring the joy of jazz to young audiences. The Make Music With Me band brings jazz to young audiences through interactive performances that allow children to come on stage, join the show, and help make the music happen in a lively, encouraging atmosphere.

Ready to find your next home near the bustling music scene of the Richmond area? We can help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Central Virginia area.