Joanne Kee

Sydney’s live music scene marches to many beats, but if you want something timeless, it's gotta be jazz. From dimly lit basement bars where trumpets and double basses take centre stage to neighbourhood pubs serving up smooth tunes alongside a cold pint, the Harbour City offers plenty of ways to get your jazz fix. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz devotee who can tell your bebop from your big band, or simply looking for a laid-back night with swinging rhythms, here's our pick of the best jazz clubs, bars and pubs in Sydney where live music is always on the menu. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  The best bars and pubs for live music in SydneyThe best theatre to see in Sydney this month Here’s what’s on in Sydney this weekend

There was a well kept jazz secret called Colbourne Avenue in Glebe – a labour of love, where everyone volunteered their time so that the musicians could keep the door money. Sadly it closed, but due to popular audience demand the vibe lives on in the Annandale Creative Arts Centre. It’s BYO, and you’ll see well known, interstate, international and emerging musos play – but it very much depends on when you drop by. A place for serious listeners, Johnston Street Jazz is where you want to be on a Thursday night.