Founded in 1995 by Dale Fitzgerald and Roy Hargrove, The Jazz Gallery's stellar programming has enabled a reputation as "The most imaginatively booked jazz club in New York." (NY Times) and "The best place to hear live music in New York." (TimeOut NY). As a nonprofit, it has the ability to allow musicians to take creative risks that other jazz venues would be likely to avoid - therefore, The Gallery is a hub of creativity, a home to jazz musicians/composers, many of them from all over the world but now permanently settled in the United States.

The Jazz Gallery produces most of its programming in it’s own venue, a loft space with walls that also serve as a gallery for artwork relating to jazz. It seats 70 people. The rented space is on the fifth floor of 1160 Broadway,accessible by elevator. The Jazz Gallery recalls Soho loft spaces of the 1960's and 70s, and conveys an intimacy and warmth that many newcomers comment on.