Late night jazz fans will no longer have to trek across downtown or even wait for a bus to get to the jams at the 2011 Ottawa Jazz Festival.

The jam sessions have been moved to The Lounge at the upscale Arc the Hotel, 140 Slater Street between Metcalfe and O'Connor, and less than two blocks from Confederation Park. The previous location, at the Delta on Lyon Street, was six blocks away. The location before that, at the Ramada on Cooper Street, was 3-4 blocks away.

The Lounge is on the main floor of the hotel, near the doors. It will accommodate 100-120 listeners, according to hotel staff. Unlike the previous location, the space has generally clear sight lines, and no outer lounge area, which tended to generate a lot of disruptive noise from people who sat there and talked.  However the new room's ceiling, floor, and walls are acoustically quite hard, which could adversely affect both the music, and noise levels.

The jams will again be hosted by John Geggie (double bass), together with Nancy Walker (piano), and either Nick Fraser or Ethan Ardelli on drums. They will happen every night from 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. during the 2011 Ottawa Jazz Festival, from June 23 to July 3, excluding Canada Day.

And while nobody will be certain who will jam until the magical moment happens, we can tell you that other essential information now: A beer (at present) will cost you $6.50 and a glass of wine between $9-$11.

    – Brett Delmage

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