WEST VILLAGE. If you can handle the run-down atmosphere of this legendary dive, then you'll be treated to some of the best be-bop jazz in New York. Students and young folks love the low-key vibe and the affordable drink prices, but music lovers of all ages show up to hear jazz guitar greats in action.TRAIN: 1, 9 to Christopher St

BRONX. This traditional Irish pub between Greystone and Waldo Avenues doubles as an Irish grocery. Step inside and you'll feel as though you've been swept off to the Emerald Isle ­ mahogany accents and bar, candles, and various pictures and mementos that share an "all things Irish" motif. An Beal Bocht serves several Irish draughts as well as a full pub menu, including delicious corned beef and cabbage. If you're lucky, the night you stop in will feature live folk music or maybe even a poetry reading ­ what better way to get a feel for the Bronx? TRAIN: 1, 9 to 238th St

THEATRE DISTRICT. This impressive venue pays tribute to soulful blues legend B.B. King and features musicians who specialize in everything from blues, jazz and hip-hop to funk, blue grass and even heavy metal. In fact, there's really no telling who may be slated from week to week ­ it may be a Pink Floyd tribute band one night, Peter Frampton the next, and then either Ricky Skaggs or Little Richard. Sundays are especially popular thanks to the live gospel music and brunches that feature downhome ditties like baked yams, mac-n-cheese, fried catfish and collards. TRAIN: 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, S, W to Times Sq-42nd St

UPPER EAST SIDE. This Madison Avenue piano bar, named after an author of children's literature, attracts a more mature and well-heeled group of clientele than some of the Upper East Side's other nightspots do. Murals from Ludwig Bemelman's depict scenes from "Madeline" and a few of his other stories, adding nice contrast to the bar's "Old New York" atmosphere. Indeed, this place is reminiscent of the city's classic piano bars ­ joints where you could enjoy a good drink and great music in relative peace. Cover charge after 9:30pm. TRAIN: 6 to 77th St

HELL'S KITCHEN. Although it opened in December 1949, Birdland continues the tradition of live jazz that has been so popular with both New York natives and tourists alike over the years. Classic jazz club ambiance, enhanced by excellent musicians who have likely been playing for decades, is still offered here ­ you will not be disappointed. The line-up of past performers is impressive by any standards, starting with Charlie "Bird" Parker himself. Other well-known names include John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis, Stan Getz, Sarah Vaughan, and Dinah Washington. $10 minimum per person. TRAIN: A, C, E to 42nd St