About Sam First
Sam First is Los Angeles' premier jazz club for world-class modern - eclectic and straight-ahead jazz - uniquely positioned just minutes from Los Angeles International Airport. Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization - Sam First is dedicated to supporting and expanding jazz as a musical form and tradition while providing a vibrant center for regional - national and international jazz practitioners.
The Vision
Owner Paul Solomon created Sam First to be unexpectedly creative - a space that would excite visitors and match the authentic creativity of the musicians who perform there. The venue is named after Sam First - an old-world tailor who led his family to Los Angeles - whose brilliant smile warmed his grandson's heart and inspired the creation of this special space.
Unique Design
Sam First's design philosophy centers on removing barriers between performers and audiences. The venue features no elevated stage - instead creating an intimate configuration where patrons feel like they're on stage with the band. The industrial interior structures are complemented by original photography (shot by Solomon himself) and authentic vintage mid-century modern furniture from legendary designers like Herman Miller and Artemide. The carefully curated aesthetic creates an environment that inspires both musicians and patrons.
Exceptional Acoustics
The listening room features amazing acoustics and is home to one of LA's most loved Yamaha C7x grand pianos. The combination of superior room acoustics and world-class instrumentation creates an irresistible listening experience. Sam First is committed to creating an immersive environment - requesting that guests refrain from talking during performances out of respect for the artists and fellow audience members.
Performance Schedule
Sam First presents two sets nightly - Tuesday through Saturday - at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM. The venue is closed Sunday and Monday. Tuesday nights feature a special program called The Happenings - where trumpeter Julien Knowles leads an incredible group for one set - followed by an open jam session from 9:00-11:00 PM (jam participants use code SAM1JAM). The venue also hosts College Night - a program designed to give young musicians valuable performance experience and networking opportunities with the wider Sam First family of artists and audiences.
Sam First Records
The venue is also home to Sam First Records - a label that documents performances by resident and visiting artists. Recent releases have featured Grammy-nominated ensembles and acclaimed musicians - capturing the exceptional quality of performances that take place in this intimate space.
Hospitality
Sam First offers a carefully curated selection of craft cocktails - local beers and wines - and bar snacks that pair perfectly with an evening of jazz. The venue provides eight reserved parking spots in the rear of the building (first come - first served after 6:00 PM) - plus nearby metered parking and airport parking lots with special rates for Sam First patrons.
Community Impact
As a nonprofit organization - Sam First fosters growth and engagement of the jazz community in Los Angeles. The venue promotes in-person collaboration - formation of new relationships and creation of original music that takes risks and pushes boundaries. By featuring today's best modern and straight-ahead jazz artists in such an intimate setting - Sam First continues to advance jazz as a living - evolving art form while honoring its rich traditions.