I’m neither obsessed with free nor averse to paying admissions. Attending free events is a dual-edged sword like most things – although I find it to be a healthy antidote to a society where much is defined by the dollar, there is a danger of reducing your standards because something is free. No need to make contributions to dumbing down when the world is doing an adequate job already.

So when I attend those things which are free in New York City, I do relax my standards somewhat, particularly regarding ambiance and other elements of the performance not related to the music itself. But, I try to not waste time on things that really are not very enriching when the city is brimming with quality entertainment. If you read my posting on the music conservatories, Free Lunch, I have written about free quality performances by sharp talents. Another great resource for entertainment are the various bars that have free music jams, frequently with no cover or minimum.
In 2007, I wrote about the Baggot Inn (now closed) and the weekly bluegrass jams with Sheriff Bob. The energy at those sessions often built to frenetic level, as the musicians sometimes numbered over 20.

Last night, I was invited with friends to Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar at 519 Second Ave. (bet. 28th & 29th Sts.). So we ventured out into the subfreezing weather on a Sunday evening. Sunday is a quiet night, so the audience was not large, which was to my liking. Over the evening, the jam had at least a dozen musicians/singers. The talent was excellent – it is always remarkable to see the level of artistic talent in this city. A jazz musician once told me that he has seen world-class jazz musicians play to empty rooms. Not unusual, particularly with less popular music genres such as blues, bluegrass, and jazz. I have written about the demise of blues clubs: Terra Blues is the last remaining one.

Paddy Reilly is the owner of this music bar. Born in Dublin in 1939, Paddy Reilly is one of Ireland’s most famous Irish folk singers and guitarists, formerly a member of the group the Dubliners. I understand he plays at the bar from time to time. According to the bar, Paddy Reilly’s was the first and only all-Guinness draft bar in the world. There is a back room with darts and other activities.

Check with the bar before you go because the music changes – some nights are traditional Irish, there are open mics, and on Sunday Night, from 5PM – 8PM. there is the bluegrass jam. And there are cover charges and minimums on Friday and Saturday nights…

Related Posting: Only in New York

Many small music clubs have closed down over the years – rising rents in Manhattan is certainly one of the major factors. And hit hardest are those clubs which feature less popular genres, such as the blues. Important venues such as Chicago Blues and Manny’s Car Wash have closed. The only real blues venue left in Manhattan is Terra Blues (although B.B. King’s at Times Square has a blues room).

Terra Blues is one flight up at 149 Bleecker Street (click here for 2nd photo), one of the most touristy and well-known streets in the Village. However, this club is authentic and gets serious acts. And, unlike many remaining music clubs in the city, it is quite reasonable – the cover charge varies, and on many weeknights, there is no cover or minimum. If you like blues at all, I highly recommend it. Check the calendar on their website.
One of my favorite blues musicians is harmonica player Jason Ricci. Here’s a link to his myspace site. Jason has started playing at Terra Blues – keep an eye out for him…