The Jazz Scene in San Antonio: A Rich History and Continuing Legacy
If jazz isn’t your typical music choice, you’re not alone. But the stories we found while exploring the local jazz scene in San Antonio might just change your mind.
When you think of San Antonio, music genres like Tejano, country, or even metal might come to mind before jazz. However, San Antonio is home to one of the only two jazz radio stations in Texas and one of 58 in the entire United States.
1 of 2 in Texas, 1 of 58 in the U.S.
San Antonio’s own KRTU 91.7 FM is dedicated to jazz music and has been around since 1976. The station has a special place in the hearts of jazz lovers in the city.
The late Jim Cullum Jr., a San Antonio native, played a significant role in putting the city on the jazz map. His son, Chris Cullum, now carries on his father’s legacy by playing his music at his own restaurants in the city.
Jim Cullum & The Landing
Jim Cullum Jr. and his father opened a jazz club called The Landing along the Riverwalk in 1963. The club became a hub for local jazz music and a training ground for aspiring artists.
The younger Cullum fell in love with the jazz scene at a young age, working at The Landing and watching his father perform. Today, he continues to honor his father’s memory through his restaurants and his music.
Community support plays a crucial role in keeping jazz alive in San Antonio, with events like Jazz’SAlive and local venues showcasing talented artists and keeping the legacy of jazz music alive for future generations.
A recipe for a thriving jazz scene
San Antonio has all the ingredients for a thriving jazz scene, from talented performers and educators to dedicated radio stations and venues that support jazz performances.
Even as music genres come and go, jazz remains a timeless art form with a rich history in San Antonio. It’s a genre that continues to inspire and captivate audiences, showcasing the city’s unique place in the world of jazz.
So next time you’re in San Antonio, consider exploring the local jazz scene and experiencing the magic of this timeless musical tradition.
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