The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is located in Birmingham and stands as an evolving testament to the state’s significant contributions to the world of jazz.
- By preserving the legacies of talented musicians who have shaped the genre, the hall connects the past, present and future of this American art form.
Exhibits and performances celebrate achievements of the past while also supporting the ongoing presence of jazz, ensuring its relevance in the culture of Alabama and the entire country. The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame opened in 1978 with the intention of preserving, promoting and celebrating the jazz heritage of the state. It’s housed in the historic Carver Theatre, which was built in 1935 and served as a cultural hub. The venue has hosted some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time and was a central gathering place for the African American community during the Jim Crow era. Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton have graced the stage, The inductees of the Jazz Hall of Fame span different eras and styles. From influential performers and composers to educators and advocates, it highlights the various facets of jazz and their impact on the culture. Some of the most well-known inductees include W.C. Handy who was known as the “Father of the Blues,” Sun Ra who was a visionary avant-garde jazz musician and Dinah Washington, who was an acclaimed jazz and blues vocalist. The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is dedicated to honoring the past while also fostering fresh appreciation for jazz among present and future generations. The hall provides educational outreach programs, offers workshops and lectures and continues to resonate with new audiences.