Tucked away in an alley off Peel Street in Hong Kong’s Central district, Chez Trente is a jazz club not easy to find, but owner Joe Lung Yau-hang prefers it that way. Lung isn’t filtering the bands that play but the people who enter, wanting it to be a space for true music enthusiasts.
“Many call saying they’ve been searching for an hour,” Lung says. “If you’re still looking, you must really love music and will respect it when you come in.” With nightly jazz performances from Tuesday to Saturday, Chez Trente offers an intimate space for Hong Kong’s music lovers.
Chez Trente, meaning “at thirty” in French, honors the historical 30 houses neighborhood and the area’s Chinese shophouses built between 1948 and 1958. Lung’s love for music started with rock ’n’ roll in his youth, inspired by bands like Metallica and Radiohead. He later discovered jazz and joined a band in Hong Kong as the only local member, forming lifelong bonds over 20 years in the industry.
Lung opened Chez Trente in 2018 to foster a community of musicians and artists. The venue features works by local artists and a performance area always ready for music. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the club struggled, but Lung’s passion for jazz and supporting young musicians kept it alive. He emphasizes the importance of connecting young people with professional musicians, believing these exchanges make the shows special.
Jazz is more popular now in Hong Kong than ever. Lung notes a surge in original jazz music, with local bands incorporating unique styles. He credits the inspiration from musicians returning from the US and stresses the importance of jam sessions for collaboration and idea exchange.
Chez Trente is constantly evolving, recently launching the annual Chez Trente Music Fest. The first event in 2023 was aboard a Hong Kong Star Ferry. Despite initial logistical challenges, the unique setting and enthusiasm made it a success. The festival returns on August 24, 2023, at The Trilogy nightclub in Central, featuring eight hours of live music from over 10 Hong Kong jazz bands, a silent disco, stand-up comedy, and drag acts.
Reflecting on his career, Lung is proud of “connecting people that would not usually meet.” Chez Trente may be a challenge to find, but for those who do, Lung guarantees a welcoming space dedicated to the love of music.
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