Colored Musicians Club and Museum
A legendary jazz venue and museum preserving Buffalo's Black music heritage and hosting iconic performers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free live music!
Colored Musicians Club and Museum
Best Time
Free live music!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary jazz venue and museum preserving Buffalo's Black music heritage and hosting iconic performers.
"This museum is a hidden gem that exceeded my expectations. It's fun, engaging, and a fantastic lesson in American history."
🎯 Catch the Live Music
Don't miss the free Thursday/Friday evening music upstairs! Arrive early for the best seats.
🤝 Meet the Director
George Scott, the director, is a wealth of knowledge and makes the visit extra special.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Jazz Venue
Upstairs Club
Experience live jazz in a legendary space that hosted icons like Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie.
Engaging Jazz Museum
Museum Floor
Discover the pivotal role of this club in jazz history and Buffalo's Black heritage.
Big Band Practice Sessions
Upstairs Club
Enjoy free music and a fun atmosphere during Thursday or Friday evening practices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Jazz
A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Live Music
Don't miss the free Thursday/Friday evening music upstairs! Arrive early for the best seats.
🤝 Meet the Director
George Scott, the director, is a wealth of knowledge and makes the visit extra special.
🎶 Interactive Exhibits
Great for all ages, with hands-on displays about instruments and jazz history.
📍 Support Black History
A vital stop on the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Live Music
Don't miss the free Thursday/Friday evening music upstairs! Arrive early for the best seats.
🤝 Meet the Director
George Scott, the director, is a wealth of knowledge and makes the visit extra special.
🎶 Interactive Exhibits
Great for all ages, with hands-on displays about instruments and jazz history.
📍 Support Black History
A vital stop on the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor.
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking is available, but can be limited during popular event times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Colored Musicians Club and Museum as an incredible, life-changing experience and a true hidden gem of Buffalo. The rich history, engaging exhibits, and especially the live music performances are frequently highlighted as standout features. Many appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about a vital part of jazz and Black history.
"Incredible experience and life changing for my wife. The story of this club is the very essence of music, love and people. George was an incredibly gracious host. This is one of the great treasures of Buffalo."
Robert Edney
"Such a wonderful experience, this museum is a hidden gem that exceeded my expectations. It's fun, engaging, and a fantastic lesson in American history. I was lucky enough to meet George Scott, and can't wait to come back to Buffalo to see his big band performing. Come alone, bring the kids, stay for 20 minutes or one hour (or two) but don't miss it!"
Angela Pires
"A must see! This museum has it all!! I spent two hours watching, reading and LISTENING to everything. The history of Buffalo jazz includes many famous people, including Dizzy Gillespie and George Washington Jr.
It's a very small place but they squeeze so much information into it. Lots of hands on so it's great for kids and adults alike.
Also the Director, George, was welcoming and explained how the museum worked before I got started.
I went to the Club upstairs last night (Thursdays@8pm) and it was free and so fun listening to their Big Band practicing and playing great music. There are not a lot of places you can hear that anymore; a real treat!"
Ann Chadwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The club is located at 145 Broadway in Buffalo, NY. It's accessible by car, with street parking available. Public transportation options may also serve the area, so check local transit schedules.
Yes, street parking is generally available around the club. However, it can become limited, especially during evening events or performances.
Absolutely! It's a key stop along the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor, highlighting Buffalo's rich Black history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the museum itself may have an admission fee, many visitors report that the Thursday and Friday evening music sessions upstairs are free. It's always best to check their official schedule or call ahead for the most current information.
Operating hours can vary, especially for the museum versus the club performances. It's recommended to check their website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, the club frequently hosts live music, particularly Big Band practices on Thursday and Friday evenings, which are often free.
For specific ticketed events, it's advisable to check the Colored Musicians Club's official channels or contact them directly. However, many of their regular music nights are free.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
The museum offers a deep dive into the history of jazz, the club's role during segregation, and features artifacts from legendary musicians like Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie. There are also interactive exhibits for all ages.
Yes, many visitors find the museum's interactive exhibits and engaging stories to be great for both kids and adults. It's a fantastic way to introduce younger generations to jazz and Black history.
The atmosphere is described as fun, intimate, and vibrant, especially during the Big Band practices. It's a chance to hear great live jazz in a historic setting.
Many visitors have had the pleasure of meeting the director, George Scott, who is known for being a gracious host and sharing insights about the club's history.
Information on specific accessibility features may vary. It's recommended to contact the venue directly to inquire about accessibility for individuals with mobility concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, especially in the museum. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos or videos, particularly during live performances.
The historic architecture, the artifacts in the museum, and the energy of a live jazz performance all offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the essence of this unique venue is highly recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can introduce their children to the rich history of jazz and African American culture in a setting that feels both educational and entertaining. The live music nights, especially the free Big Band practices, can also be a delightful experience for families looking for unique evening entertainment.
🎶 Jazz Aficionados
Don't miss the chance to catch a live performance, whether it's a Big Band practice or another scheduled event. The opportunity to hear live jazz in such an authentic and historically significant space is unparalleled. Engaging with Director George Scott can provide invaluable insights.
🏛️ History Buffs
The museum provides detailed accounts of the club's role during segregation and its importance as a cultural hub. Exploring the artifacts and stories here offers a profound understanding of the struggles and triumphs of African American musicians and the community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pivotal Role in Jazz History
Legendary figures like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dizzy Gillespie graced its stage, contributing to the vibrant evolution of jazz. The club wasn't just a venue; it was a hub for creativity, collaboration, and the preservation of African American musical heritage.
Today, the club continues this tradition by not only preserving its history through its museum but also by actively supporting contemporary jazz musicians through live performances. It remains a testament to the enduring power of music and community.
Exploring the Museum's Treasures
Beyond the general history, the museum offers specific insights into the lives and careers of the musicians who performed there. Interactive elements, such as listening stations that demonstrate different instrument sounds, make the experience engaging for all ages, from curious children to seasoned jazz enthusiasts.
Meeting George Scott, the director, is often highlighted as a special part of the visit. His passion and knowledge enhance the museum experience, providing personal anecdotes and deeper context to the exhibits, making the history feel immediate and personal.
Experiencing Live Music Nights
Attendees describe the atmosphere as fun, energetic, and intimate. It's a chance to enjoy great jazz music without the formality of a ticketed concert, fostering a sense of community and shared appreciation for the art form. The sound of a live Big Band in this historic space is a truly special experience.
While these music nights are a highlight, it's always a good idea to check the club's schedule in advance, as performance times and availability can vary. Arriving a bit early is often recommended to secure a good vantage point and soak in the ambiance before the music begins.
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