Savoy Ballroom

The Savoy Ballroom was a legendary, visually dazzling, block-long ballroom in Harlem and a hothouse for the development of jazz in the Swing Era. Nightly it featured the finest jazz bands in the nation, and its house bands included the orchestras of Fess Williams, Chick Webb, and Teddy Hill. Great jazz dancers, from professionals like Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers to everyday Harlemites, appeared on its floor. During a time of racial segregation and strife, it was one of the most culturally and racially integrated institutions, with international fame. It was the heartbeat of Harlem’s community, a testament to the indomitable spirit and creative impulse of African-Americans, and a catalyst where dancers and musicians blended influences to forge new, widespread, and long-lasting traditions in music and dance. From 1926 to 1958, it was known as the Home of Happy Feet, and “Stompin’ at the Savoy” was understood across America.

New York, New York · United States