Jazz at the Bistro, Saint Louis

Jazz at the Bistro began in 1995 as a dedicated live-jazz venue and concert series. In 2006, the presenting organization adopted the name Jazz St. Louis, reflecting its expanded mission of performance, education, and community outreach. The venue continued operating in its original space until a $10 million redevelopment completed in October 2014 created the Harold & Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz, with the Ferring Jazz Bistro serving as its main performance venue.

Today, it remains an important destination for experiencing live jazz in an intimate setting. The Ferring Jazz Bistro accommodates up to 220 guests and combines cabaret-style seating with excellent acoustics, modern lighting, and professional sound systems. Its year-round concert program features traditional jazz, swing, bebop, Latin jazz, contemporary works, and original compositions performed by internationally recognized artists alongside regional musicians. The venue also hosts album-release concerts, themed performances, and special collaborations that highlight the diversity of jazz.

Beyond its performances, Jazz St. Louis plays a major role in music education through student ensembles, workshops, masterclasses, lectures, and youth programs. Visitors can experience both live performances and the organization's broader educational mission within the same facility. By combining concerts, learning opportunities, and community engagement, the center continues to celebrate the history of jazz while supporting its ongoing development for future generations.