Welcome to the Steel City, Pittsburgh – where music flows through the streets and the local music scene is thriving. As music lovers, we all know that nothing compares to the excitement of seeing our favorite bands perform live. But with so many venues and shows to choose from in Pittsburgh, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why this article is here to help guide you through the city’s live music scene and showcase the best places to experience it.
By the end of this article, you can expect to have a deeper understanding of the unique characteristics that define Pittsburgh’s music culture. You’ll discover the range of local artists and venues that make the city’s live music scene a must-see for any touring band or music enthusiast. From intimate performances at small bars and clubs to massive headlining shows at world-class amphitheaters, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Get ready to explore the amazing world of live music in Pittsburgh, and discover the many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. You’ll gain insider knowledge on the best shows, venues and trends that will make you feel like a true Pittsburgh music aficionado. Whether you’re a local resident, new to the city or just passing through, this guide is your key to experiencing the unique and vibrant energy of Pittsburgh’s live music scene.
The Best Live Music Venues in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is a city that has a rich music culture, and many live music venues are prominent in the city. From small and intimate spaces to large concert halls, the city provides an array of options for all music lovers. Below are the best live music venues in Pittsburgh, providing a diverse range of bands, musicians, and performers.
The Stage AE
The Stage AE, standing for “Alternative Energy,” is a concert hall located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh. The venue is well known for hosting many of Pittsburgh’s larger concerts and events. The interior is spacious and can hold up to 5,500 people, making it one of the largest music venues in the city. The design of the space is open and flexible, making it a versatile space for all types of events.
- Location: North Shore, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.
- Capacity: 2,400 indoor; 5,500 outdoor.
- Events: Concerts, events, and tournaments.
- Best features: Outdoor stage and indoor balcony for fans who want to enjoy the concert with an elevated view.
- Real-world Example: Stage AE regularly hosts popular artists and bands like Twenty One Pilots, Blink-182, and the Lumineers.
Table: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Large indoor and outdoor capacity | – Limited parking space |
| – Versatile venue for all types of events | – Poor acoustics in some areas of the venue |
The Stage AE is undoubtedly the most prominent live music venue in Pittsburgh. With its spacious and flexible design, accommodating thousands of music lovers and massive outdoor stage, it offers an unforgettable and unique music experience. However, limited parking space and poor acoustics can sometimes be a problem for concertgoers.
The Rex Theater
The Rex Theater is an iconic venue located in South Side, Pittsburgh. The venue has been around since 1905 and has since transformed from a vaudeville theater to a live music venue, providing the best and unique experience to music lovers. The Rex has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal space for small and upcoming artists in search of a stage to perform.
- Location: South Side, Pittsburgh, PA 15203.
- Capacity: 300 (seated); 600 (standing).
- Events: Music concerts, comedy shows, and themed parties.
- Best Features: Cozy and intimate atmosphere for all types of performances, including standing and seating options.
- Real-world Example: Bands such as Catfish and the Bottlemen, Night Beats, and Hippo Campus have all performed at the Rex Theatre.
Table: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Intimate atmosphere for small bands to perform | – Limited capacity |
| – Affordable tickets | – No in-house restaurant |
The Rex theater is perfect for music lovers looking for a more intimate experience with their favorite bands and musicians. The cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for small and upcoming artists to connect with their fans. However, its small capacity can make obtaining tickets a challenge, and there is no in-house restaurant, although visitors can enjoy a wide variety of food options around the venue.
Mr. Smalls Theater
Mr. Smalls Theater is a unique and unconventional venue located in Millvale, Pittsburgh. Originally built as a church, it was transformed into a music venue in the early 2000s. The venue is famous for hosting popular and underground bands, providing an immersive music experience. Mr. Smalls Theater boasts a warehouse aesthetic with gothic architecture and a high-tech sound system.
- Location: Millvale, Pittsburgh, PA 15209.
- Capacity: 650 (seated); 1100 (standing).
- Events: Concerts, events, and ceremonies.
- Best features: Warehouse ambiance, a high-tech sound system, and bars that serve unique craft beers.
- Real-world Example: Bands like The National, Alt-J, and Cage the Elephant have all performed at Mr. Smalls Theater.
Table: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Unique and immersive experience with gothic architecture | – Limited seating capacity |
| – High-tech sound system | – Limited parking space |
Mr. Smalls Theater sets itself apart from other venues with its unique and unconventional warehouse ambiance, gothic architecture, and high-tech sound system. It also offers unique craft beers and has been considered as one of the best live music venues in Pittsburgh. However, it has limited seating capacity and parking space, which can be a challenge for visitors.
Pittsburgh’s Top Live Music Events and Festivals
Live music events and festivals in Pittsburgh attract people from all over the world for a variety of music genres. With a vibrant music scene, live music events and festivals in Pittsburgh deliver an excellent experience to music lovers. Here are some of the top live music events and festivals in Pittsburgh that you should not miss.
Pittsburgh Jazz Festival
The Pittsburgh Jazz Festival is one of the most prominent music events in Pittsburgh that takes place in June. This festival brings together jazz musicians from around the world to perform in different locations across the city. The Pittsburgh Jazz Festival has been around since 2011 and is known for bringing together some of the biggest names in jazz.
- Interesting fact:
- Real world example:
- Pros and cons:
The Pittsburgh Jazz Festival was founded by Janis Burley Wilson, the former CEO and President of the August Wilson African American Cultural Center. She has been recognized for her contributions to jazz culture and arts, and the festival has become a prominent event on the Pittsburgh art and music calendar.
In 2018, Terri Lyne Carrington and Social Science performed at the Pittsburgh Jazz Festival. Carrington is a Grammy award-winning drummer, composer, and producer. Social Science, her band, fuses jazz, rock, and other music genres to create a unique sound. The audience at the festival enjoyed the vibrant and energetic performances by the musicians.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Brings together some of the biggest names in jazz | Expensive tickets |
| A great opportunity to experience the fusion of different musical styles | Only happens once a year |
This event combines intellectual discussions, art, and music to create a unique combination of cultural experiences.
Pittsburgh Blues Festival
The Pittsburgh Blues Festival promotes blues music and benefits the research of cancer and autism. Since 1994, the festival has donated over $2 million to autism research and cancer treatment. This event features local and national blues musicians, and it always has a great turnout.
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The Pittsburgh Blues Festival was founded by Ron “Moondog” Esser, a popular blues musician in Pittsburgh. Esser was passionate about supporting cancer and autism research because he lost his daughter to cancer and had a grandson diagnosed with autism.
In 2019, the Eric Gales Band performed at the Pittsburgh Blues Festival. Eric Gales is known for being one of the best guitarists in the world, and his performance at the festival was electrifying. The audience was dancing and singing along to his music, and they had a great time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports cancer and autism research | Only features blues musicians |
| Features local and national blues musicians | Only happens once a year |
This event is a great way to enjoy blues music and support important research at the same time.
Three Rivers Arts Festival
The Three Rivers Arts Festival is a free ten-day music and art festival that takes place in Pittsburgh in June. This festival attracts over 500,000 people to downtown Pittsburgh to enjoy music, art, and food. The festival is organized by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and it features different music genres, including pop, rock, indie, and jazz.
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The Three Rivers Arts Festival has been around since 1960, and it originated as an art festival. Over the years, it has evolved to include different cultural experiences, including music.
In 2019, India.Arie, a Grammy award-winning musician, performed at the Three Rivers Arts Festival. Her music combines different genres, including soul, R&B, and jazz. The audience was impressed by her talent and energy, and they sang along to her popular songs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free admission | Crowded |
| Features different music genres | Only happens once a year |
The Three Rivers Arts Festival is a great way to experience music, art, and food in downtown Pittsburgh for free.
Farm Aid
Farm Aid is an annual concert event that raises money for family farmers in the US. The first Farm Aid concert was organized in 1985 by Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Neil Young. Since then, it has become a major event that features a variety of music genres and attracts thousands of people.
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In 2020, Farm Aid raised over $500,000 for farmers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The money was used to provide emergency grants to farmers in need.
In 2019, Bonnie Raitt, a nine-time Grammy award-winning musician, performed at the Farm Aid concert. She is known for her blues and rock music, and her performance at the concert was amazing. The audience was excited to see her perform, and they enjoyed her music.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Raises money for family farmers in the US | Expensive tickets |
| Features a variety of music genres | Only happens once a year |
Farm Aid is not only a great music event but also a platform to promote family-owned farms and support local agriculture.
In conclusion, Pittsburgh’s top live music events and festivals offer a unique experience for music lovers. Whether you enjoy jazz, blues, or different music genres, these events have something for everyone. From supporting important causes to experiencing music and art for free, Pittsburgh’s live music events and festivals are truly remarkable.
The Evolution of Live Music in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is known for its distinct musical culture, with a diverse range of musical styles that have defined the city over the generations. From traditional folk and bluegrass to jazz, blues and rock ‘n roll, Pittsburgh has been home to some of the most influential musicians of our time. In this section, we explore the history of live music in Pittsburgh and how it has evolved into the vibrant music scene we see today.
Early Music in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s live music scene dates back to the late 19th century, with the emergence of brass bands and symphony orchestras that were the hallmark of the era. Classical music drew the most significant crowds, and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, established in 1896, quickly became an essential part of the city’s culture. The likes of Fritz Reiner and Andre Previn, both renowned conductors and pianists, added to the city’s cultural tapestry.
The Birth of Jazz
The jazz scene in Pittsburgh emerged in the 1920s, with the onset of prohibition and the speakeasy culture that followed. The African American community was essential in cultivating jazz culture in the city, led by musicians such as Mary Lou Williams and George Benson. Pittsburgh had an active club scene, with the likes of the Crawford Grill hosting some of the most popular bands around this time.
The Rock ‘n Roll Era
The 1950s saw the growth of rock ‘n roll, with stars such as Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley dominating the airwaves. Pittsburgh had its share of homegrown rock stars like Lou Christie and Jimmy Beaumont. While the British invasion of the 1960s had an impact on the music scene in the city, Pittsburgh’s rock music continued to thrive. The Electric Banana, a nightclub that hosted the biggest rock stars of the time, became the epicenter of Pittsburgh’s burgeoning music scene.
The Pittsburgh Sound
The 1970s saw the emergence of a form of rock music that came to be known as the “Pittsburgh sound.” The sound was a blend of hard rock, blues and soul, and was brought into the mainstream by bands such as the Jaggerz and Wild Cherry. The latter had a monster hit with “Play That Funky Music,” which topped the charts in 1976. The Iron City Houserockers, another Pittsburgh band, fused rock and roll with country music, creating a unique sound that was distinctively Pittsburgh.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s live music scene has seen significant evolution, from classical music to jazz, rock ‘n roll, and the Pittsburgh sound. Along the way, the city has produced some of the most influential musicians in the world, including jazz pianist Earl Hines, drummer Gene Krupa, singer-songwriter Christina Aguilera, and R&B legend George Benson. The city’s music scene continues to thrive, with numerous clubs and venues that cater to different musical styles. Pittsburgh has a distinct musical culture, and its live music scene is an essential part of the city’s fabric.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pittsburgh has a diverse range of music genres to choose from | The live music scene in Pittsburgh may not be as vibrant as other cities like Nashville or Austin |
| Pittsburgh has produced some of the most influential musicians in the world. | The cost of attending live shows and concerts can be high |
| The music scene in Pittsburgh has a rich history and cultural influence | The weather in Pittsburgh can sometimes be a hindrance for outdoor concerts and festivals |
- Pittsburgh is home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, which is one of the most prestigious symphony orchestras in the world.
- Pittsburgh has an active club scene, with many venues and music festivals that cater to different musical styles.
- The city has a rich history of producing influential musicians who have shaped the music industry globally.
- The music scene in Pittsburgh is a vibrant and integral part of the city’s culture and heritage.
- The variety of music genres celebrated in Pittsburgh’s music scene caters to a diverse audience, ranging from jazz to rock and roll.
In conclusion, the history of live music in Pittsburgh dates back several centuries and has undergone significant evolution into what is now a vibrant and diverse music scene. From classical music to jazz, rock ‘n roll, and the Pittsburgh sound, the city has produced some of the most influential musicians in the world. Although not as prominent as other cities’ music scenes, Pittsburgh’s culture and heritage continue to shape music and provide a unique experience for music lovers. The music scene in Pittsburgh continues to thrive, and the future looks bright as the city boasts a diverse range of musicians and music genres that cater to a broad audience.
4. Best Live Music Venues in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is well-known for its vibrant music scene, and it’s not hard to find good live music any night of the week. In this section, we will explore some of the best live music venues in Pittsburgh, ranging from small intimate jazz clubs to large music halls.
1. Stage AE
Stage AE is one of the largest indoor and outdoor concert venues in Pittsburgh. It features two stages- indoor and outdoor, and it can accommodate up to 5,500 people indoor and up to 7,500 outdoor. The venue has hosted many popular artists like Twenty One Pilots, The Lumineers, and Panic! At the Disco. The lighting and sound system are exceptional, giving the audience a surreal experience.
Pros:
- The venue can host large crowds, making it perfect for big-name artists.
- There is plenty of space to move around even in large crowds.
Cons:
- Drinks and food are costly.
- The outdoor stage can be weather dependent, causing some shows to be canceled or rescheduled.
2. Mr. Smalls Theatre
Mr. Smalls Theatre is located in Millvale, a small neighborhood just outside of Pittsburgh. It is regarded as one of the best small music venues in the city. The venue can accommodate up to 650 people, and it hosts many local and national artists. The venue has excellent acoustics, ensuring that every seat in the house is a good one.
Pros:
- The venue is small, providing an intimate atmosphere for the audience and the artist.
- The venue reflects the art and culture of the city.
Cons:
- The venue can sell out quickly, so book your tickets in advance.
- Parking can be challenging in Millvale.
3. Spirit Lodge
Spirit Lodge is a multi-purpose venue located in Lawrenceville. It has three floors with various rooms attached to it. The venue can accommodate up to 525 guests, and it is home to many concerts and events of different genres. One unique aspect of Spirit Lodge is that it is complete with a bar and restaurant which serves delicious food and drinks.
Pros:
- The venue has a restaurant and bar, so patrons do not have to leave the premises for food and drink related services.
- Spirit has multiple rooms, allowing for different experiences in one venue
Cons:
- The venue can be crowded.
- Acoustics can be a problem depending on which room the performance is held in
4. Jazz Live Pittsburgh
Jazz Live Pittsburgh which took over the old Backstage Bar is now located at the Cultural District’s Greer Cabaret Theater. It’s a swanky, upscale club in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District that is known for hosting jazz and blues performers from all around the country. Jazz Live Pittsburgh has a 400-seat cabaret-style theater which provides the perfect setting for this genre of music.
Pros:
- The club offers an intimate setting that fills the room with the music’s energy.
- It offers jazz lovers the opportunity to see world-renowned jazz musicians perform in person.
Cons:
- The club can be pricey, with ticket prices varying depending on the night and artist.
- The club’s dress code may limit what people can wear to the venue.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh has so much to offer in terms of live music venues. Each venue is unique, and each offers a different type of experience. From intimate shows featuring local artists to large concerts featuring big-name acts, Pittsburgh has something for everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or just getting started, there is a venue out there that is perfect for you.
The Top Live Music Bars in Pittsburgh
When it comes to live music, Pittsburgh has a vibrant and diverse scene that offers something for everyone. From intimate clubs to large amphitheaters, there is no shortage of venues to catch a great show. In this article, we take a look at the top live music bars in Pittsburgh, where you can experience some of the city’s best musical acts.
The Smiling Moose
Located in Pittsburgh’s South Side neighborhood, The Smiling Moose is a popular spot for fans of rock, punk, and metal music. The venue has a capacity of 400 people and hosts shows almost every night of the week. The Smiling Moose is known for their signature “Moose Wings” and has a selection of craft beers on tap.
- The venue has a capacity of 400 people.
- The Smiling Moose hosts shows almost every night of the week.
- Known for their signature “Moose Wings.”
- Selection of craft beers on tap.
At The Smiling Moose, you can catch both local and national acts ranging from up-and-coming bands to established acts. The venue also hosts themed nights, including an “Emo Night” where fans can sing along to their favorite songs from the early 2000s. The Smiling Moose is a popular spot among music fans in Pittsburgh and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great night of live music.
Club Cafe
Located in the heart of Pittsburgh’s South Side neighborhood, Club Cafe is a cozy venue that hosts a variety of musical genres, including indie rock, folk, and jazz. The venue has a capacity of 160 people, making for an intimate and personal concert experience. Club Cafe also has a full bar and a menu of small plates.
- The venue has a capacity of 160 people.
- Hosts a variety of musical genres, including indie rock, folk, and jazz.
- Cozy and intimate concert experience.
- Full bar and a menu of small plates.
Club Cafe has hosted some notable acts over the years, including The Avett Brothers, Hozier, and The Lumineers. The venue also has a strong commitment to supporting local musicians, hosting a weekly open mic night and booking many local acts. Club Cafe is a favorite among Pittsburgh music fans who are looking for a more intimate concert experience.
The Rex Theater
The Rex Theater is a historic venue located in Pittsburgh’s South Side neighborhood that has been hosting live music since 1905. The venue has a capacity of 650 people and hosts a variety of musical genres, including rock, country, and hip-hop. The Rex Theater also has a full bar and food available for purchase.
- Historic venue that has been hosting live music since 1905.
- The venue has a capacity of 650 people.
- Hosts a variety of musical genres, including rock, country, and hip-hop.
- Full bar and food available for purchase.
Over the years, The Rex Theater has hosted many notable acts, including Nirvana, The Black Keys, and Snoop Dogg. The venue is also committed to supporting local artists, with a weekly open mic night and frequent local bookings. The Rex Theater is a popular spot among both local music fans and tourists who are looking to experience Pittsburgh’s music scene.
Mr. Smalls Theatre
Located just outside of Pittsburgh in Millvale, Mr. Smalls Theatre is a unique venue housed in a former church. With a capacity of 650 people, the venue hosts a wide range of musical acts across multiple genres, including indie rock, hip-hop, and electronic. Mr. Smalls Theatre also has a full bar and food available for purchase.
- Unique venue housed in a former church.
- The venue has a capacity of 650 people.
- Hosts a wide range of musical acts across multiple genres.
- Full bar and food available for purchase.
Mr. Smalls Theatre has hosted some notable acts over the years, including The National, Tame Impala, and Mac Miller. The venue is also committed to supporting local musicians, hosting a weekly open mic night and booking many local acts. Mr. Smalls Theatre is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable concert experience.
The Stage at Karma
Located in downtown Pittsburgh, The Stage at Karma is a versatile venue that hosts a variety of events, including live music, comedy shows, and burlesque performances. The venue has a capacity of 400 people and has a full bar and food available for purchase. The Stage at Karma is known for its unique decor and intimate atmosphere.
- Versatile venue that hosts a variety of events, including live music, comedy shows, and burlesque performances.
- The venue has a capacity of 400 people.
- Full bar and food available for purchase.
- Known for its unique decor and intimate atmosphere.
The Stage at Karma has hosted a variety of musical acts over the years, including indie rock bands, hip-hop artists, and electronic DJs. The venue also has a strong commitment to supporting local musicians, hosting a weekly open mic night and booking many local acts. The Stage at Karma is a favorite among Pittsburgh music fans who are looking for a unique and unforgettable concert experience.
In conclusion, Pittsburgh’s live music scene is thriving with a variety of venues to check out. Whether you’re in the mood for indie rock or hip-hop, there’s a venue in Pittsburgh that will satisfy your musical desires. From historic theaters to intimate clubs, the top live music bars in Pittsburgh offer a range of experiences for music fans of all kinds.
FAQs: Live Music in Pittsburgh
What venues in Pittsburgh offer live music?
There are numerous venues in Pittsburgh that offer live music. Some of the most popular ones include Stage AE, Mr. Smalls Theatre, PPG Paints Arena, Rex Theater, and Club Cafe. These venues have hosted both local and international musicians and offer a variety of genres, including rock, pop, country, and jazz.
What is the best time to see live music in Pittsburgh?
The best time to see live music in Pittsburgh is during the summer months. Many music festivals take place during this time, including the Three Rivers Arts Festival and the Pittsburgh Blues Festival. Additionally, many venues have outdoor stages that are open during the summer months. However, live music is available year-round in Pittsburgh.
What type of music is popular in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh has a diverse music scene, so there is no one type of music that is particularly popular. However, Pittsburgh does have a history of producing and supporting rock music, with many famous musicians hailing from the city. Additionally, the city has a thriving jazz scene and is home to many talented jazz musicians.
How much does it cost to see live music in Pittsburgh?
The cost of seeing live music in Pittsburgh varies depending on the venue and the performer. Some venues offer free concerts, while others charge as much as $100 or more for larger acts. On average, the cost of seeing live music in Pittsburgh is around $20 per ticket.
Are there any all-ages music venues in Pittsburgh?
Yes, there are several all-ages music venues in Pittsburgh. Some popular all-ages music venues in the city include Mr. Smalls Theatre, Club Cafe, and the Rex Theater. These venues often offer matinee shows on the weekends for younger fans.
What music festivals take place in Pittsburgh?
There are several music festivals that take place in Pittsburgh throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include the Three Rivers Arts Festival, the Pittsburgh Blues Festival, and the Pittsburgh JazzLive International Festival. Additionally, many neighborhoods in Pittsburgh host their own music festivals throughout the year.
What is the dress code for live music venues in Pittsburgh?
The dress code for live music venues in Pittsburgh varies depending on the venue. Some venues, such as PPG Paints Arena, have a more formal dress code and require patrons to dress in business casual attire. However, most venues have a more relaxed dress code and welcome patrons in casual attire.
Do any bars in Pittsburgh offer live music?
Yes, many bars in Pittsburgh offer live music. Some popular bars that offer live music include Howlers, Club Cafe, and the Thunderbird Cafe. These bars often feature local musicians and offer a more intimate setting for live music.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to a concert in Pittsburgh?
No, most concert venues in Pittsburgh do not allow patrons to bring their own food and drinks. However, many venues offer food and drink options on-site, and some even have full-service restaurants within the venue.
What is the sound quality like at Pittsburgh music venues?
The sound quality at Pittsburgh music venues varies depending on the venue. Larger venues, such as PPG Paints Arena, often have state-of-the-art sound systems and offer superior sound quality. Smaller venues, such as Howlers, may have more limited sound equipment, but still offer a high-quality listening experience.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh has a lively and diverse music scene, with many venues and festivals to choose from throughout the year. From rock to jazz to blues, there is something for every music fan in Pittsburgh. After reading this article, consider exploring the city’s many music venues and festivals and discovering the wealth of talent that the city has to offer.
Goodbye, and we hope you enjoy your next music-filled adventure! Check out our other articles for more interesting insights.