Morning Jazz

Question

Years ago, (Like 4 or 5), One morning the wife and I were walking along a side street in New Orleans. Found a place called The Yard on I believe was on Frenchman street. They had a small group of 3 or 4 people playing Jazz music. We walked up and they had a small courtyard. We sat down and had a few drinks and enjoyed the music. The next time we went They were permanantly closed. We loved it and it left a great memory. Cant find any more information on it. Just looking for something like that. Not into crowds packed into a place. ( I hear preservation hall is great but packed!) Any ideas of a place like that? This will be my 3rd visit to New Orleans and I am running out of ideas of what to do. Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a more intimate, low-key jazz experience, similar to the one you had at The Yard. While places like Preservation Hall are fantastic for jazz, they can get packed, especially during peak times. Here are some great options in New Orleans where you can enjoy morning or early afternoon jazz without the crowds:

Spotted Cat Music Club – Located on Frenchmen Street, this small venue offers fantastic live jazz in a cozy setting. It's not as crowded as some of the larger clubs, and you can enjoy a laid-back vibe with a drink in hand. They often have local jazz musicians playing during the day, perfect for a relaxed experience.
The Frenchmen Street Art Market – While not a jazz club, this open-air market often features live jazz musicians playing in a casual, intimate setting. The market is a great place to explore and enjoy music without the big crowds. It's just a few steps from Frenchmen Street, and you may catch some great impromptu performances.
Maison – This venue on Frenchmen Street is known for its live music, and they often host jazz bands during the day. The space is fairly laid-back, and you can enjoy a drink and some good music without feeling cramped. It's a great spot for a more relaxed vibe compared to the larger venues in the area.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro – A bit more refined but still intimate, Snug Harbor offers excellent jazz performances in a cozy bistro setting. It's a bit more upscale but still feels personal and less crowded. They often feature early afternoon shows, so it's a good spot for a daytime jazz experience.
Little Gem Saloon – This gem (pun intended) is an off-the-beaten-path spot in the heart of New Orleans offering great live jazz music, along with Southern-inspired food and cocktails. It's less crowded than many of the bigger spots and gives you a chance to experience intimate jazz performances in a cozy setting.

Each of these venues has its own vibe, but they all offer a more intimate, non-crowded atmosphere for enjoying great jazz in New Orleans. If you're looking for that laid-back, personal experience similar to what you had at The Yard, these places would be excellent options.

Enjoy your time in New Orleans—it's a city full of hidden gems, especially when it comes to jazz!