The venerable Village Vanguard, which has been presenting world-class jazz from its Seventh Avenue South basement location in New York’s West Village since 1935—and which closed its doors to the public on March 16, 2020 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic—will reopen to vaccinated patrons 18 years of age or older on Tuesday, September 14.
Not coincidentally, this will be the day after New York officially becomes the first U.S. city to require proof of coronavirus vaccination for entry to all restaurants, nightclubs, bars, and other establishments where groups mingle at length indoors in close quarters.
All tickets for Vanguard events will, until further notice, be available for purchase only in advance on the venue’s website, which clearly states its admission policy: “In our effort to insure that customers and staff have a safe experience, we ask that everyone show proof of vaccination in accordance with the Mayor’s office of the City of New York … When you arrive, please bring a valid ID along with proof of vaccination to present to the door person.”
Trumpeter Ron Miles will inaugurate the club’s new era with a six-night stand (through September 19), backed by guitarist Bill Frisell, pianist Jason Moran, bassist Thomas Morgan, and drummer Brian Blade. Pianist Bill Charlap and his trio with bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington will follow with a two-week stand, from September 21 to October 3.
Although the Vanguard has not presented live in-person shows in almost a year-and-a-half, it began streaming live performances from the club in mid-June 2020. These livestreams were met with praise from critics, fans, and musicians alike; although the venue has since ceased its streaming program, some past performances are still available for viewing on the Vanguard website.
For more information about the Village Vanguard, its new admission policy, and its upcoming events, go to villagevanguard.com.
