New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Relaunches with Venue Upgrades
Lance Traweek, Editor//September 30, 2025//
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Jazz & Blues Market reopens Oct. 1 with Grammy-winning artists
- Venue upgrades include new sound, lighting, and seating
- Suzanne Bresette named interim manager during relaunch
- Home of New Orleans Jazz Orchestra and community events
The New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market is reopening Oct. 1 with a slate of performers and an interior overhaul aimed at making the venue one of the nation’s premier listening rooms.
The nonprofit announced the relaunch September 30, highlighting a series of October shows featuring Grammy-winning jazz and blues artists.
The season begins with guitarist and composer Bill Frisell, joined by Thomas Morgan, Rudy Royston and Gregory Tardy. Performances by pianist Bob James, fusion group The Yellowjackets, saxophonist Grace Kelly, guitarist Larry Carlton, guitarist Stanley Jordan and vocalist Lisa Fisher are scheduled throughout the month.
Suzanne Bresette, a veteran music consultant and owner of Bresette & Company, has been named interim manager of the venue. Bresette has worked with the Jazz & Blues Market since December 2024 and previously advised on the launch of Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She is leading booking, marketing and organizational strategy during the transition.
“We are thrilled to relaunch the New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market and showcase top-tier artists in a space that’s unlike any other,” Bresette said.
The relaunch follows a series of upgrades, including a new sound system from European manufacturer RCF, enhanced lighting, expanded table seating with beverage service, a renovated bar, and an automated Ticketmaster system. The changes are designed to improve acoustics, audience experience and accessibility.
The venue continues to serve as the home of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, founded in 2002, which promotes jazz performance, education and community engagement. Bresette said the orchestra is rebuilding its foundation while expanding opportunities for local musicians and students.
Beyond live shows, the Jazz & Blues Market markets itself as an event space for corporate gatherings, weddings and private parties, equipped with theater and projector capabilities along with livestreaming technology.
The New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market is located at 1436 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard. More information and tickets are available at jazzandbluesmarket.com.