Jazz venues in Madrid

For many years now, this beautiful venue with high ceilings and elegant decor has been the place to get your jazz fix in Madrid. The artists that come here put it among the best of its kind in Europe. George Adams, Don Pullen, Ben Sidran and Bob Sands have all taken the stage, as well as Spanish stalwarts such as Chano Domínguez, Jorge Pardo and the oldest and greatest of them all, Pedro Iturralde. Its classic stone tables are ideal for having a hot cup of coffee while enjoying live music. In charge of the kitchen is a chef from San Sebastián, Juan Miguel Pérez Páramo, aka 'Micky'.

Founded many years ago by the owner of the legendary Whisky Jazz Club, this is Madrid's longest-standing jazz joint. Nowadays, as well as jazz, the programme takes in Brazilian groups, singer-songwriters and '60s cover bands banging out Beatles and Stones songs. A great atmosphere and friendly staff make it an essential stop, but don't get there too early: concerts start late. There's nothing pleasanter than having a glass of wine while listening to jazz played by an up and coming young promise. This bar has also witnessed performances by singer-songwriters who have surprised the audience with their original lyrics and sounds. There are jam sessions every week.

In 2003 the Berlin was another venue to fall foul of enforced closure by the city council, but it has since bounced back impressively, with its own jazz school. While it's mainly a jazz venue showcasing local groups, bigger names such as Eddie Henderson also come to call. These days you can also get a bite to eat – burgers, pasta and desserts with names like Tarta Miles Davis. The decor here, with cream-coloured walls, creates a warm and relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for listening to jazz, and you can dine sitting in the comfortable red chairs.  

Specialised in jazz, Junco frequently stages concerts by Spanish performers and groups. Although it has just one floor and isn’t particularly big, the venue is divided into three areas: the bar, the stage, and an area to relax and have a quiet drink. Blues and mellow rock are also well received here. When the concerts finish it’s the ideal place to chat and drink gin and tonics or get up and dance. The clientele is basically thirtysomethings. Although it’s open till 6am, it’s also a perfect place to have the first drinks of the evening.

This emblematic jazz club opened in 1981, and for eight years served as the set for the TV programme 'Jazz Entre Amigos'. Stocking what is apparently the widest range of cavas and champagnes in Madrid, Clamores has quite a varied programme these days, with tango, pop, rock, bossa, samba and folk all on the bill, as well as the jazz that made its name. The live acts sprawl into late-night jam sessions on Friday and Saturday nights. Its stage has seen some famous international artists like Ara Malikian and tickets are very reasonably priced, costing around €10. Thanks to its great music and long history, Clamores is one of the top venues on the Spanish concert scene.