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Jazz Played Here
Caveau de la Huchette
Paris

by Peter Maguire*

Caveau Huchette Roosevelt Jazz.jpg

The Caveau de la Huchette is a famous jazz club located in Paris. Established in the 1940s, it has become an iconic venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and dedication to jazz music. The club features live performances by both well-known and up-and-coming jazz musicians, creating a lively and engaging experience for both locals and visitors.The interior of Caveau de la Huchette is characterized by its historic and charming ambiance, often featuring a dance floor where patrons can enjoy the music. The club’s quirky medieval cellar interior and history (once a meeting place for Rosicrucians, Templars, and more) add to its mystique. "In 1789 and all during the revolutionary period, this building known as "Caveau de la Terreur" housed the "Club des Cordeliers" and "des Montagnards". In the upper room, transformed into a public-house, one drank, sang and argued about "la liberté". The principal members of the "Convention" could be found there (Danton, Marat, Saint-Just and Robespierre), and numerous trials were conducted on the spot (followed by peremptory executions). You will find there, one after another, the court room, the prison, the place of execution. In the lower room, there still exists a very deep well, used to remove all evidence of the crimes committed there. These rooms are unquestionably authentic, historically accurate, and preserved in their original state. Arms from that epoch still decorate the walls (swords, muskets, etc and jealousy guarded : a chastity belt)."

Caveau de la Huchette attracts a diverse crowd, from jazz enthusiasts to tourists looking to experience the Parisian nightlife. The club has been a featured backdrop in several important movies - for example, in the film La La Land. - here is a clip:

You will find the Club at 5 rue de la Huchette, 75005 Paris, France. Telephone: +33 1 43 26 65 05. Its website is here.

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Here is the You Rascal Jazz Band at the club playing Count Basie's Jumpin At The Woodside in November 2024:

*Trombonist Peter Maguire is based in Belgium and is the creator of the Jazz Clubs Worldwide website, a valuable database if you are looking for jazz clubs elsewhere. 

© Sandy Brown Jazz 2026.3

© Sandy Brown Jazz

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