Giving Tuesday is a chance to support the organizations that enrich our communities and preserve our cultural heritage. For jazz lovers throughout Central Texas, the Austin Traditional Jazz Society continues to do exactly that as it celebrates its 50th Anniversary Concert Season.
Founded in 1977, the Austin Traditional Jazz Society is dedicated to the performance and preservation of traditional jazz. For nearly five decades, the Society has welcomed audiences and musicians alike, providing a stage for many of the nation’s leading traditional jazz artists while nurturing local talent and introducing new generations to this uniquely American art form.
From the birthplace of jazz in New Orleans to the sounds of Chicago and beyond, the Society has worked tirelessly to ensure that traditional jazz remains a vibrant part of Central Texas culture. Through annual concerts, special events, and educational outreach, the organization keeps the spirit and history of America’s original music alive.
The Society’s next concert offers a perfect opportunity to experience that tradition firsthand. The third performance of the golden anniversary season will feature Swing Shift of Austin on Sunday, November 22, from 2:00 to 4:45 p.m.
True to its name, Swing Shift explores a variety of swing styles from the early 1900s through the 1940s. Throughout the performance, audiences will enjoy the band’s unique ability to shift instrumental sounds as well, moving from banjo to guitar and from clarinet to saxophone to capture the evolving sounds of early American jazz.
The concert will be held at Ben Hur Shrine Temple, 7811 Rockwood Lane in Austin, conveniently located off Anderson Lane near MoPac. Guests will find ample free parking, a spacious dance floor, and a welcoming atmosphere for listeners and dancers alike. Snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks will be available for purchase, and patrons are welcome to bring their own food. As always, Austin Traditional Jazz Society concerts are family-friendly events.
- Sep 20, 2026 Silver Creek Jazz Band
- Oct 18, 2026 Violet Crown Serenaders
- Nov 22, 2026 Swing Shift of Austin
- Jan 17, 2027 Annual ATJS Jam Session
- Mar 14, 2027 Dirty River Jazz Band
- Apr 11, 2027 The Relevators
- Jun 6, 2027 ATJS All-Stars
One of the best ways to support the Society on Giving Tuesday is through membership. Annual dues help sustain concert programming and preservation efforts while providing members with valuable benefits throughout the year.
Membership benefits include:
- Free admission to all six regular Austin Traditional Jazz Society concerts
- Discounted admission to ATJS special events
- Discounted admission to Austin Swing Syndicate events
- Discounted admission to Austin Jazz Society events
- Monthly email notifications about jazz events across Central Texas
- Two complimentary concert passes to share with friends
Memberships run from July 1 through June 30 and are available at the following rates:
- Individual Membership: $60
- Student Membership: $25
- Couple Membership: $110
As the Austin Traditional Jazz Society celebrates this milestone season, community support remains essential to its mission. Every membership, donation, and concert attendance helps ensure that traditional jazz continues to entertain, educate, and inspire future generations.
This Giving Tuesday, consider investing in the preservation of America’s original music. By supporting the Austin Traditional Jazz Society, you become part of a legacy that has been bringing the joy of traditional jazz to Central Texas audiences for nearly fifty years.
Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast, an occasional listener, or simply curious about the music that laid the foundation for so much of today’s popular music, there’s never been a better time to join the Austin Traditional Jazz Society and help keep the music playing.
