This was a dream of Bryant’s for the last 10 years. He wanted to create a focal point to his already popular instrumental program in the schools and have a place where students, parents, and jazz lovers could come and listen to fantastic music. It is the newest venue in the Portland’s vibrant jazz scene where people can come to listen in a comfortable environment void of distractions. “I’ve always wanted to have a place where the music mattered most (to take a phrase from the San Diego Jazz Club Dizzy’s where Bryant has performed).” The idea is that people can pay an admission fee ranging between $10-$15 and not be hassled with having to buy drinks or food and bothered by people talking. “People come to the M.U.S.E. Performance Center because it’s not like anyplace else”, he says. It’s an intimate and respectful environment for the musicians who like to play here because they can create and present their own creative music. 

It is also a place where, not only All Ages can attend but, perform as well. We have many youth groups ranging from 12 years old through college who will be having the opportunity to perform at this venue and to play alongside professionals. “Back in the day when I was discovering jazz, I had to sneak into clubs or listen from outside in order to hear musicians like Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and local jazz musicians”, Bryant says. Here, parents can bring their children to hear some of the best local and nationally known performers in the country and not spend a fortune.

In the coming months we are looking at have a variety of groups performing at the center, as well as our House Big Band that will be composed of 75% professionals and 25% students.  Students from PSU, The Portland Jazz Youth Orchestra, and the Woodshed Jazz Orchestra(an adult big band that Bryant teaches on Thursday nights) will have the opportunity to audition for this band. “What a wonderful way to bridge the gap between students and professionals”, Bryant says.

If you are not on our email list,  please email Bryant at bryant@museband.com and we will put you on our mailing list to keep you posted of events.