Jazz Sessions in The Rocks
Jazz Sessions in The Rocks
07
May
24
Sep
Event

Jazz Sessions in The Rocks

When

Every Thursday until 24 September, 6pm - 8.30pm. Music from 6.30pm.

Where

The Rocks Square
Playfair St
The Rocks, NSW 2000

Get directions
Price

FREE

Accessibility
The Rocks Square is an accessible outdoor space.
Map, showing Jazz Sessions in The Rocks

Jazz Sessions in The Rocks returns for its third year, bringing incredible live jazz to Sydney’s most historic precinct. Curated by the Sydney Improvised Music Association (SIMA), this much‑loved series showcases the depth, diversity and energy of Australia’s contemporary jazz scene.

Clock off, rug up and wander down to The Rocks - Jazz Sessions in The Rocks is back for its third year, offering one of Sydney’s best free weekly experiences! Let live jazz ease you out of the workday and into the evening, right in the city’s historic heart.

Set within the welcoming surrounds of The Rocks Square, prepare for a Thursday evening filled with soulful melodies, beautiful ambience and delicious food and drink. 

Whether you’re popping by on your way home, meeting friends for a casual catch‑up or turning it into a standing weekly ritual, Jazz Sessions in The Rocks offers an effortless way to experience live music in an open, welcoming setting. There’s no need to book ahead, just turn up and grab a seat. First in, first served. 

Now a favourite on Sydney’s cultural calendar, Jazz Sessions in The Rocks continues to bring high‑quality live jazz to the city in an easy, welcoming way. Make it your new after‑work tradition - where great music, historic surrounds and cosy vibes come together in Sydney's historic heart. 


Program:

  • 6.00pm: Jazz Sessions Opens - Come in and take a seat 
  • 6.30pm - 7.15pm: First set 
  • 7:15pm - 7:30pm: Break
  • 7.30pm - 8.15pm: Second set 
  • 8.30pm: Jazz Sessions closes 

No bookings required – just show up, relax, and enjoy. 

About SIMA 
Jazz Sessions is curated by SIMA, who has supported Sydney’s most inspired jazz and improvising musicians for over forty years. They are dedicated to the music of the moment, presenting events, festivals and educational opportunities that spotlight our city’s incredible artists and the diversity of our community.

August

6 August
Hilary Geddes and Lauren White
Hilary Geddes is an award-winning guitarist, improviser and composer based in Eora/Sydney on Gadigal Land. Hilary is the bandleader of the Hilary Geddes Quartet, and released her acclaimed debut album 'Parkside' (ABC Jazz) with the band in 2021.
13 August
Bernard Van Rossum Quartet
Spanish-Dutch saxophonist and composer Bernard van Rossum performs with his quartet on an Australian tour joined by some of Sydney’s leading young jazz figures. Also known as the leader of the award-winning BvR Flamenco Big Band, van Rossum presents a vibrant modern jazz journey weaving together global influences, from Brazilian folklore to rhythms of flamenco.
27 Aug
Gai Bryant's ALLY Trio
ALLY is a fabulous concoction of ideas that take musical shape by musicians who work seamlessly together to explore new ideas. Their music is drawn from Afro-Peruvian, Brazilian, Cuban and Andalusian traditional rhythms paired with a modern jazz aesthetic. Over 2022/26 ALLY toured extensively in regional NSW & nationally with sell-out shows in Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and Devonport. They collaborated with Cuban pianists Elio Villafranca and Dominican musicians Josean Jacobo and Otoniel Nicolás, and toured to Germany and New Zealand to collaborate with global ensemble Realms beyond Borders.

$10 Combo at Pisa Slice

Enjoy Pisa Slice’s $10 combo featuring a generous slice of pizza and a soft drink, the perfect pairing for a relaxed night of live jazz. With hearty portions and classic Italian flavours, it’s a go-to for quick, affordable bites. 
Eat & Drink
Pick up some easy eats to enjoy during the session, or continue your charming journey through The Rocks with drinks and dinner at one of over 60 venues. 
2 Offers
Pisa Slice
Pisa Slice serves quick, affordable artisan pizza and pasta.
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1 Offer
Sicilian Restaurant
Sicilian Restaurant celebrates authentic Italian flavors with carefully sourced ingredients and passionate chefs, offering traditional dishes and creative interpretations for a true taste of Italy.
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Snake Bark
Discover the true taste of Thailand at Snake Bark. Authentic dishes that bring the essence of Thai street markets right to your plate.
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3 Offers
Hooked and Harvest
Hooked & Harvest in The Rocks Square serves fresh, vibrant seafood and salads with a modern Australian twist. From crispy fish and chips to build-your-own salads and oysters, it’s the perfect spot for quick, quality meals and a welcoming community vibe.
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1 Offer
Ribs and Burgers The Rocks
Burger lovers go crazy over Ribs and Burgers - one of Sydney’s best-loved gourmet burger joints. Try their wagyu burgers and thank us later.
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Frank Mac's
Frank Mac’s is a heritage gin bar with over 100 gins, luxe interiors, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for cocktails and shared bites in Sydney.
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1 Offer
Endeavour Tap Rooms
A brewery, bar and kitchen serving fresh Aussie brews, smoked meats, and seasonal dishes in a beautiful heritage venue in The Rocks.
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3 Offers
Le Foote
Le Foote is a European-inspired wine bar, pub, and Mediterranean grill set within one of The Rocks’ oldest heritage buildings, brought to life by Sydney hospitality icons, Swillhouse
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The Doss House
Past lives of 77 George St have included a boot maker, boarding house, and opium dealer, and now it is all about whisky.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Jazz Sessions in The Rocks is a relaxed, open-air live music experience held in The Rocks Square. Expect contemporary Australian jazz performed by talented local musicians in a welcoming, social atmosphere. It’s designed as an experience where you can enjoy live music, soak up the historic surroundings, and grab food or drinks nearby.
 
No bookings are required and entry is completely free. Simply turn up, find a seat, and enjoy the live Jazz music. Seating is a first come, first served.
In the event of wet weather, please make sure to follow our socials for updates.
When: Every Thursday evening, with the event running from 6.00pm to 8.30pm and live music starting at 6.30pm. 
Where: The Rocks Square, Playfair Street, The Rocks, Sydney. 
The Rocks is easily accessible via public transport, with trains, buses, ferries and light rail all servicing nearby areas like Circular Quay and Wynyard.
Yes. The event takes place in The Rocks Square, an accessible outdoor space, and the precinct is committed to being inclusive for all visitors. There are accessible transport options, pathways, and facilities available, though some areas of The Rocks may have historic features like uneven surfaces or slopes.