Inside Brisbane’s Jazz Room: A Night of Classic Music & Candlelight

The Brisbane Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal and Yuggera people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Brisbane’s Jazz Room is held. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Brisbane has a new after-dark ritual: slipping into The Jazz Room for an hour of brass, bass, and easy swagger in the heart of the city.

Staged at Grand on Ann—the heritage Masonic Memorial Centre on Ann Street—the series blends small-band spontaneity with a set list of beloved standards, in a room that feels purpose-built for sultry horns and late-night vocals.

Think low lights, tight 60-minute sets, and a band that leans into swing staples and bluesy crowd-pleasers without losing the looseness that makes live jazz sing.

This review takes a first-hand look at the vibe, the sound, and whether the room delivers on its promise of an intimate night out.

Below, I’ll take you from door to last note—arrival and seating (and how to nab a good spot), bar/service, setlist and musicianship, acoustics, crowd energy, value for money, and who this is best for.

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What is the Jazz Room?

The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans is a live-music series celebrating the classic sounds of swing, blues, and jazz standards, performed by a small band and vocalist in an intimate setting. It’s all about the close-up connection between musicians and audience — the kind of performance where every note feels personal.

Each show features familiar favourites alongside moments of improvisation and solo work that keep things spontaneous. The arrangements pay tribute to the greats while adding just enough of a modern touch to make them feel fresh.

With low lighting, a relaxed atmosphere, and a set list that moves from slow blues to upbeat swing, The Jazz Room offers an easy, enjoyable night of live music — ideal for a date, a catch-up with friends, or simply unwinding to timeless jazz.

Each concert runs for around 60 minutes

Jazz Room Venue

Grand on Ann is housed within Brisbane’s heritage-listed Masonic Memorial Centre at 311 Ann Street — a 1920s Classical Revival building designed by architect L. L. Powell as both a Masonic temple and a war memorial. The venue’s history and architecture add a quiet sense of occasion before the music even begins.

Inside, the layout feels naturally suited to live performance. A circular vestibule opens into the Grand Hall, with original Queensland timber furnishings and a choir loft once built for 32 voices. The space combines character and warmth, creating a clear, resonant setting for brass, bass, and vocals.

It’s a blend of old-world charm and intimacy — tall columns, timber accents, and vintage finishes framing a small band and audience. The acoustics suit jazz perfectly, carrying a trumpet line or brushed snare with clarity and ease, helping create that relaxed, classic-club atmosphere the Jazz Room aims for.

Seating

Seating is available in three categories — Zone A to C — with the main difference being how close you are to the stage.

Given the grandstand-style layout, most seats offer a good view of the stage and excellent sound. Seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within each category, so it’s worth arriving early — doors open 30 minutes before the performance, and latecomers won’t be admitted.

Overall, you really can’t go too wrong — even from the back, the acoustics carry beautifully, and the intimate setup means you’ll feel part of the performance wherever you sit.

Food and Drink

There’s a handy bar on level 2 pouring wine, beer, bubbles and soft drinks, with a small selection of snacks. It’s perfect for a pre-show sip while doors are open (30 minutes before the music starts).

Getting There

If you’re coming by public transport, Central Station is the closest stop—about a 210-metre stroll to the venue.

Driving instead? Post Office Square and Cathedral Square are the nearest car parks, both just a few minutes’ walk away.

Accessibility

If you need assistance during the concert, you can apply for a free pass for your caretaker. To do this, purchase your ticket first, then click here to submit a request.

The venue is wheelchair accessible with a ramp provided for the front steps, and a lift is inside. Email the venue (wecallitballet@gmail.com) in advance for ramp assistance.

Service animals are welcome.

Pricing and Booking Information

Tickets for The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans are sold via Fever’s official website. Prices vary by date and seating zone, typically $45–$59.

Sessions run on selected dates now through mid-2026, with most evenings offering two sittings: 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm.

Who’s the Jazz Room for?

If you love the feel of live music but don’t want a late night or a noisy bar, this is your sweet spot. The Jazz Room suits date nights, catch-ups, and even solo treats—an intimate hour where you can actually hear every note and still make dinner before or after.

It’s ideal for first-timers who want a curated set of classics (swing, blues, standards) without a three-hour jam, and for long-time jazz fans who appreciate tight arrangements and room for improvisation.

The concise, 60-minute format, grown-up vibe, and seated zones make it easy for anyone who prefers structure over standing gigs.

Enjoy the Jazz Room

Hopefully, you found this review on The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans helpful.

Why not check out some of our other reviews of things to do in Brisbane, such as the Candlelight Concerts, Vertigo or Soak Bathhouse.

I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland and Brisbane Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask all your questions.