Wally's Jazz Cafe

"An Old Scene for the Older"

Price: Affordable
Age restriction: 21+
Location: South End
Accessibility: All ages that apply are welcome, no cover charge, near Symphony T stop.

One of the oldest jazz clubs in Boston, established in 1947, Wally's Jazz Cafe has managed to still thrive over the years. Although its location has changed from its original position on Massachusetts Avenue, Wally's still maintains its historic value in Boston. Founded by Joseph L. Walcott, Wally's Jazz Cafe was the first African American owned nightclub in New England. Mr. Walcott brought many well known jazz musicians and talented jazz acts to his venue.

Wally's is known for it's many student performances, "during the day it is pretty much a practice space or a training ground, rather, for many of the student bands that have gigs here," says Elynor Walcott, daughter of the late Mr. Walcott and owner of Wally's. Many of the student jazz musicians are from Berklee School of Music and New England Conservatory. The place seems to give off a feeling of 'home' for budding jazz musicians and the music lovers that frequent the venue.

So why not Wally's? Well, the cafe is only open to those ages 21 and over which puts many students at a disadvantage (unless you can play a mean saxophone rhythm then you can work something out). As for those students who are not as musically talented and have a taste for jazz music, this place is off limits until they turn 21. This seems practical because the establishment has a full bar which is opened from 11 am to 2 am. The age restriction is probably also in place to lessen the crampness of the jazz hot spot. Wally's is known for its standing room only set up but the music, diversity, and history of the joint makes up for this fault greatly!