One of Sydney’s best free live music experiences returns to The Rocks from 7 May until 24 September, as Jazz Sessions in The Rocks is back for its third year. With a smooth new program, the sessions will turn Thursday evenings into a relaxed, open-air celebration of live jazz in the heart of Sydney’s most iconic precinct.
From global stages to late-night playlists, jazz is being reinvented by contemporary artists, and it’s found a new home at The Rocks Square. Set amongst cobblestone laneways and historic buildings, the sessions are the destination for Sydneysiders to experience jazz in an intimate, social setting.
Curated in partnership with SIMA, which has supported Sydney’s most inspired jazz and improvising musicians for over forty years, Jazz Sessions will spotlight Australia’s thriving contemporary jazz scene. The opening month will feature standout acts including the Harley Coleman Trio and Billie McCarthy.
The program will continue to evolve, with a fresh line-up of artists announced at the start of each month. Each week will offer something different, with intimate, improvisational performances that feel both spontaneous and expressive.
To complement their evening, guests heading down to soak up the Jazz Sessions can choose from a wide range of nearby food and drink offerings in The Rocks, including fiery Thai cuisine at Snake Bark, freshly shucked oysters at Hooked & Harvest and classic Italian flavours at Sicilian. Artisan Pizzeria Pisa Slice will also be offering a $10 slice and soft drink combo every Thursday, whilst the pop-up bar sets the tone with wine, cocktails, mulled wine, espresso martinis and spicy mango margaritas.
Whether you’re a long-time jazz listener or simply curious about what the buzz is about, the sessions are designed to be open, welcoming, and easy to drop into, offering a chance to experience the rich history of the genre while hearing how it’s being reshaped by Australia’s best creative voices.
Event details
FREE Live sessions every Thursday from 7 May- 24 September
Set times
6:30pm – 7:15pm – First set
7:15pm – 7:30pm – Interval
7:30pm – 8:15pm – Second set
8:30pm – Event concludes
No bookings required.
Note Jazz Sessions will be paused for Christmas in July (July 9) and Bastille Day (July 16)
