The Savannah Jazz History & Hall of Fame Exhibit at the Savannah History Museum, unveils the rich and dynamic story of Savannah’s contributions to jazz.
While New Orleans often takes the spotlight, Savannah’s jazz legacy is equally significant, tracing its origins back to the 1920s.
Savannah has long been a hub for jazz. Its extraordinary composers, performers, venues, festivals and businesses have left a lasting mark on the art form. It’s no wonder that the Savannah History Museum should host an exhibit honoring the Hostess City’s contribution to the genre. The Savannah Jazz History & Hall of Fame exhibit ranges from the early days to the present, using a blend of artifacts, vibrant displays, and engaging multimedia.
Highlights of the Exhibit:
- The Savannah Jazz Hall of Fame
Featuring 45 inductees, the Hall of Fame honors legends such as Joe “King” Oliver—mentor to Louis Armstrong, Johnny Mercer, the iconic composer of “Moon River,” and Ben Tucker, the bassist and composer who revitalized jazz in Savannah in the 1970s. Their biographies, music, and visuals showcase their profound influence on the global jazz scene.
- Historic West Broad Street
Once a thriving jazz district, now MLK Blvd., the exhibit captures the spirit of Savannah’s old West Broad Street, once a beacon for jazz. Vintage photos and stories immerse visitors in the vibrant past of this once iconic music scene.
- Tybrisa Pavilion
Relive the magic of the legendary Tybee Island dance hall, which hosted some of the biggest big bands of its time, fostering unforgettable moments in jazz history.
- One-of-a-Kind Artifacts
Discover treasures like Ben Tucker’s historic bass violin, Johnny Mercer’s Oscar for “Moon River,” James Moody’s favorite horn, and a collection of posters and photos from the Savannah Jazz Festival and world-class concerts.
Plan Your Visit:
- Location: Savannah History Museum, 303 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
- Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
- Website
Gain a deeper appreciation for the heritage of Savannah jazz’s timeless influence on music and culture.
