Many of you have heard rumours that Hermann’s Jazz Club is closed as of last night. The truth of the matter is that Susan (manager) and Ingrid (Hermann’s daughter) are stepping down. There’s a lot more to that story and it’s not my place to speculate, there’s a statement on the Hermann’s Facebook page you can check out. Before Susan and Ingrid left, they sent emails to Hermann’s mailing list saying that the future of the club is unknown and it might be closed immediately, but it is NOT the case.
I have the OFFICIAL word that the club WILL REMAIN OPEN! At least for now. My shows this weekend are happening. A long term plan is still being decided on, but at the moment we at least know that these shows will definitely happen, and I need to spread the word far and wide that the venue is NOT closed.
Too many people have heard the rumours of closure, and who that will hurt the most is musicians like myself who have shows booked there. So please, help me spread the word that the venue continues to operate. I’ll be putting on some great shows there this weekend, and I hope to get a good crowd out. By showing up, you’re not only helping me and my band, you’re showing the club that it’s an important part of Victoria’s music and culture. See more about the shows below.
Thank you very much for your support!
The Nick La Riviere Band has two shows at Hermann’s this Friday and Saturday, July 27th and 28th. I’m really looking forward to it! We’ve got a killer lineup featuring Miguel Valdes from the Buena Vista Social Club on trumpet, Barrie Sorensen of the Naden Band on sax, Kelly Fawcett from Nanaimo on guitar/vocals, Aidan Miller from Vancouver on keys/vocals, Dave Spidel from Vancouver on bass, and the one-and-only Damian Graham on drums. And of course me on trombone, vocals, conch shells, and whatever else I can get my hands on. We’re going to premiere some brand new original tunes that I’m really excited about at these shows, and also play some funky New Orleans tunes, Trombone Shorty, and more. Lots of energy, and fun!
Our last show there was sold out – in fact we couldn’t accommodate everyone who wanted to come in – so we’re booked for two nights this time. Come check us out, I promise it’s going to be a couple great nights. One audience member from our last show described it as ‘the most fun she’s had in her adult life’.
Table reservations can be made at www.Hermannsjazz.com – just click the show listing on the night you’d like to attend, then click register for a ticket. That guarantees you a table in the event of a sell out as long as you’re there before 7:30. The club is now transitioning to new management, so you may not receive and email back confirming your reservation, but we will do our best to accommodate everyone!
ADDITIONAL NOTE: I’ve been told that there will be limited food service at these shows. Because the staff didn’t know whether it would remain open some of them found new jobs, so don’t plan on dinner. Food service will be back to normal soon for upcoming shows.