Discovering the Soul of a Place Through Live Music

Three Nights Exploring New York City’s Intimate Music Scene

As a passionate (and admittedly addicted) traveler, I make it a priority to fully immerse myself in the local culture of the places I visit. While some may prioritize visiting famous landmarks and tourist hotspots, I find myself drawn to more intimate experiences. One such experience that never fails to rejuvenate me is discovering hidden music venues featuring talented local musicians who may not have gained widespread recognition.

Big cities offer ample opportunities to indulge in gastronomic delights, visit museums and art galleries, watch theatrical performances, and take in the culture. But for me, the magic of exploring these cities lies not in the typical popular spots but in discovering hidden corners where locals go to experience the city’s culture.

One such hidden corner was the Jazz life at Arteria, a jazz club that I visited in Tbilisi, Georgia. It was a cozy little venue that didn’t look like much from the outside, but inside, I felt like I had stepped into another world. The dimly lit interior with red velvet curtains, candlelit tables, and a small stage set the perfect ambiance for jazz music. The musicians, who hailed from Georgia, Russia, and Italy, were incredibly talented and passionate about their craft, making it a mesmerizing experience for everyone in the audience.