As a student/employee involved in jazz at the University of South Florida, I am constantly getting asked where our patrons can see jazz other than University-related concerts. The truth is, there aren't myriad options in the Tampa Bay area. We at www.tampajazzscene.com will do everything in our power to chronicle as many straight-ahead jazz hits in the area as we can (disclosure: we will include our own gigs and you may see a lot of them - we have the most intimate knowledge of our own calendars), but we need you to do your part.
Conscientious jazz consumers will always go out of their way to thank the venues hosting live jazz. If you see a hit in a hotel, bar, or club and enjoyed it, take a moment to write or call management and thank them. If a venue discontinues live jazz, politely remind them how much you enjoyed it and (if it's true) that live jazz is a factor in determining where you go out for the night.
Additionally, let locations who aren't hosting live jazz know that you would enjoy it if they would begin to. Many proprietors are willing to give anything a try to get customers in the door and keep them there.
As musicians, listeners, educators, and fans, it is our responsibility to build a jazz scene in the Tampa Bay area. Make sure to say thanks to the musicians, too!
