About Us

Williamsburg Music Center is a black owned Jazz venue that was opened in 1981 by legendary composer, conductor & musician Gerry Eastman. Gerry has worked with artists like Sarah Vaughan, Count Basie, Etta Jones and the Isley Brothers to name a few.

During the time of opening WMC, Williamsburg was at the peak of violence, poverty, and discrimination for People of Color living in NYC. One of the many reasons Gerry sought out to open WMC was to provide a safe space for POC musicians to perform; and to honor the African musical diaspora.

Since it's opening, WMC has successfully hosted 400 bands within the last 38 years; including Andy Bay, Jessica Cleaves, Mavis Pool, Onasje, Frank Foster and Joe Ford. WMC is equipped with a baby grand piano, guitars, acoustic & electric basses, drums, electric organ, and more (click here to see our backline).

Come By and Say Hi!

Come by the Williamsburg Music Center to witness all the historical paintings, photos, vinyl and instruments within the space. Learn more about us and Brooklyn's history! Grab a drink and join us for a jam session on Friday with Gerry Eastman himself, or come see a local/international live band Thursday-Sunday. We'd love to have you, and looking forward to meeting you!

Find Us!

location & hours

Directions

We are located on the corner of Bedford Ave. and South 5th St. in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Nearby Subway Stops:

J or M: Marcy Ave Station

L: Bedford Ave Station

G: Metropolitan Ave Station

Williamsburg Music Center

367 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211, US

(718) 384-1654

Hours

Open today

08:30 pm – 12:00 am

Some exceptions may apply. If you want to make sure we're open on a specific date, please see the calendar or contact us via phone or email wmcswings@gmail.com

general info

Venue details

Cover $15 for 2 sets
Fridays & Saturdays 1st set at 10 PM and 2nd set at 11:30 PM by same band (exceptions due to COVID)
Reservations WMC will take reservations and has a first come/first serve admission policy for reopening/social distancing purposes
Admission 21+
Menu WMC serves beer, wine, liquor, and non-alcoholic beverages (temporarily suspended due to COVID)

Private events

WMC is available for private events of all kinds including music recitals, spoken-word performances, comic acts, weddings, receptions, and parties. It is an easily accessible street-level space, which can welcome up to 100 people.

learn more about hosting your event >