Village Vanguard

The Village Vanguard has occupied its basement on Seventh Avenue South since 1935, and the small, wedge-shaped room, with red walls lined with photographs of the musicians who have played there, is one of the most revered venues in jazz. Founded by Max Gordon, the club began with poetry and folk music before becoming devoted to jazz, and it has hosted generations of leading players. Some of the best-known live jazz albums ever made were recorded in this room, including sessions by Sonny Rollins, Bill Evans and John Coltrane.

The programme today mixes established names with leading contemporary musicians, usually booked for week-long runs from Tuesday to Sunday. Monday night belongs to the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, the big band that has held a weekly residency here for decades, and squeezing a full big band onto the tiny stage is a sight in itself. Recent and upcoming bookings published on the club's website include trios, quartets and larger ensembles, from piano-led groups to experimental bands, so check who is playing before you choose a night.

The room is small and the focus is entirely on the music. Seating is close, tables are tight, and the audience is expected to stay quiet during sets, which is part of what makes the sound and atmosphere so special. The acoustics of the triangular room are famous among musicians, and from almost any seat you are only a few metres from the band. There is a drinks service, but this is a listening room rather than a bar.

Tickets for each set are sold online in advance through the club's ticketing page, linked from the website, and popular weeks sell out, so book as soon as your dates are fixed. Arrive in good time before your set, as the room fills quickly and the best views go to those who are settled before the music starts. Contact the club by phone if you have questions about access, as the entrance is down a steep flight of stairs.

The address is 178 Seventh Avenue South, just below West 11th Street in the West Village. Christopher Street–Sheridan Square on the 1 line and 14th Street on the 1, 2 and 3 lines are each a few minutes' walk away. Via Carota, Joe's Pizza and the restaurants of Greenwich Avenue are close by for dinner before the show.