Hello music lovers! Are you tired of scouring the internet to find the latest and greatest live music events in Sarasota? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with the ultimate Sarasota Live Music Calendar. This comprehensive guide has all the information you need to plan your weekend nights out or date nights. No more endless Google searches or wondering where to go for a good live music experience.
By reading this article, you can expect to have a bird’s eye view of the live music scene in Sarasota. We’ve put together a curated list of the best venues for live music, including hidden gems you may have never heard of before. Get a taste of different genres from jazz, blues, rock, country, to indie, we’ve got it all covered. You’ll also get insider tips on where to go for the best happy hour deals or the most intimate settings to enjoy your favorite tunes.
So, if you’re ready to embark on an exciting musical journey in Sarasota, read on! We’ve done the research and scoured the city to bring you this ultimate guide. You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the thriving live music scene in Sarasota and a packed calendar of events to attend!
Discover the Best Music Venues in Sarasota
Live music is a quintessential part of Sarasota’s cultural tapestry. Sarasota live music calendar is packed with an array of live music events that cater to music enthusiasts of every genre. From boisterous jazz bars to intimate acoustic venues, Sarasota is home to an incredible array of music spots. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best music venues in Sarasota that will help you plan your musical getaway.
1. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is the largest venue for performing arts and concerts in Sarasota. This magnificent structure overlooks the Sarasota Bay and delivers an awe-inspiring view. The Hall hosts more than 100 performances each year, featuring genres such as Broadway, comedy, dance, film, music, opera, and family events. This venue has hosted world-renowned artists such as Tony Bennett, Itzhak Perlman, and Yo-Yo Ma.
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Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA.
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Auditorium: The main auditorium of Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has a seating capacity of 1,736 seats.
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Accessibility: The venue is accessible to people with disabilities with designated parking, entrances, and seating options available.
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Parking: There is ample parking available at the venue with valet and self-parking options.
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If you intend to experience the grandeur of a world-class venue for performing arts and want to be swept away by live music, then the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is a must-visit.
Discover the Best Venues for Live Music in Sarasota
Sarasota is a thriving hub for live music enthusiasts. With a plethora of venues that offer an eclectic range of music genres, it can be daunting for visitors to decide where to go. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the top venues to catch live music in Sarasota.
1. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is an iconic venue that has been entertaining audiences for over four decades. It is known for hosting performances by renowned musicians and bands, as well as Broadway shows, opera, dance, comedy, and more.
- The hall is situated on the picturesque Sarasota Bay, offering stunning views.
- The state-of-the-art auditorium can accommodate up to 1700 people, with excellent acoustics and top-notch production facilities.
- The schedule of events constantly updates, making it easier to plan your visit to Sarasota.
2. Beach Club Siesta Key
Beach Club Siesta Key is a popular beachfront live music venue that has been setting the stage for high-energy outdoor parties for over 40 years. This open-air venue features a stage on the beach, making it the perfect spot to catch live music while enjoying drinks and snacks.
- The venue offers a relaxed atmosphere with beach chairs, umbrellas, and a tiki bar.
- It has an extensive menu of drinks and snacks.
- The venue hosts a variety of music genres, including reggae, rock, country, and blues.
3. The Gator Club
The Gator Club has been a staple of the Sarasota nightlife for over 20 years. It’s a downtown Sarasota institution and is known for its historic architecture, top-notch musical acts, and lively atmosphere.
- The venue has a large stage, dance floor, and two bars.
- The Gator Club showcases both local and national musical acts.
- The club boasts a diverse selection of music genres, from jazz and blues to rock and alternative.
4. Blue Rooster
Blue Rooster is a restaurant and bar that also doubles as a live music venue. The venue’s focus is on bringing people together through music, food, and drinks. Situated in the Rosemary Historic District, it boasts a warm, romantic atmosphere.
- The menu features Southern-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails.
- The venue showcases live music six nights a week, ranging from jazz, blues, soul, gospel, and more.
- The venue has excellent acoustics, allowing for a more intimate performance experience.
5. Sarasota Opera House
Sarasota Opera House is a legendary venue that has been serving the community since 1926. It is not only home to the Sarasota Opera, but it also hosts a wide range of musical events and performances.
- The venue has been renovated and restored to maintain its old-world charm while meeting modern technological demands.
- The Sarasota Opera House’s seating capacity is roughly 1100, making it a more intimate venue.
- The schedule of events is diverse, featuring everything from chamber music ensembles to big-band jazz shows.
| Venue | Seating Capacity | Genre(s) | Special Features |
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| Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | 1700 | Broadway, classical, pop, rock, jazz, comedy, dance | Picturesque location, state-of-the-art production facilities |
| Beach Club Siesta Key | N/A | Reggae, rock, country, blues | Beachfront location, open-air venue, tiki bar |
| The Gator Club | N/A | Jazz, blues, rock, alternative | Historic architecture, lively atmosphere, national and local acts |
| Blue Rooster | N/A | Jazz, blues, soul, gospel | Southern-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, intimate atmosphere |
| Sarasota Opera House | 1100 | Chamber music, big-band jazz, opera, symphony, classical | Old-world charm, renovated facilities, diverse schedule of events |
In conclusion, Sarasota is a paradise for live music lovers, with plenty of authentic and unique venues to choose from. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or classical, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly and check the schedules of these top venues to catch the best live music performances in Sarasota.
Top Sarasota Music Festivals to Experience
Music festivals are a great way to enjoy live music, discover new artists, and connect with others who have similar music tastes. In Sarasota, Florida, there are several music festivals that are worth attending. In this article, we will be discussing the top Sarasota music festivals to experience.
The Venice Blues Festival
The Venice Blues Festival is an annual event that takes place at the Venice Airport Fairgrounds. The festival showcases blues music from around the world and attracts thousands of visitors each year. Some interesting facts about the Venice Blues Festival include:
- The festival was founded in 2011 by Michael Karp, a Venice resident and blues enthusiast.
- The festival is a non-profit organization and all proceeds go to local charities.
- The festival has hosted some of the biggest names in blues music, including Buddy Guy, Joe Louis Walker, and Shemekia Copeland.
If you are planning to attend the Venice Blues Festival, here are some things you can expect:
- A variety of blues bands playing throughout the day
- A vendor area with food, drinks, and merchandise
- A kid’s zone for families with children
- A VIP area with premium seating, food, and drinks
If you are a blues music fan, the Venice Blues Festival is a must-attend event.
The Sarasota Folk Festival
The Sarasota Folk Festival is a two-day event that takes place at Oscar Scherer State Park. The festival celebrates traditional and contemporary folk music from around the world. Some interesting facts about the Sarasota Folk Festival include:
- The festival has been taking place for over 30 years and is organized by the nonprofit organization, Sarasota Folk Club.
- The festival showcases both local and national folk artists.
- The festival’s mission is to preserve, promote, and present folk music to the community.
If you are planning to attend the Sarasota Folk Festival, here are some things you can expect:
- Live music performances throughout the day
- A vendor area with food, drinks, and merchandise
- A kid’s zone for families with children
- Workshops and jam sessions for musicians and music enthusiasts
If you enjoy folk music and want to connect with others who share your passion, the Sarasota Folk Festival is the perfect event for you.
The Harvey Milk Festival
The Harvey Milk Festival is an annual event that takes place in downtown Sarasota. The festival celebrates music, art, and activism and is named after Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California. Some interesting facts about the Harvey Milk Festival include:
- The festival was founded in 2010 by Shannon Fortner, a local musician and activist.
- The festival is a nonprofit organization and all proceeds go to local LGBTQ+ charities.
- The festival showcases a variety of music genres, including punk, rock, and hip-hop.
If you are planning to attend the Harvey Milk Festival, here are some things you can expect:
- Live music performances throughout the day
- An art exhibit featuring local LGBTQ+ artists
- A vendor area with food, drinks, and merchandise
- Community activism booths and information
If you want to celebrate music and activism while supporting the LGBTQ+ community, the Harvey Milk Festival is the perfect event for you.
| Venice Blues Festival | Sarasota Folk Festival | Harvey Milk Festival | |
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| Location | Venice Airport Fairgrounds | Oscar Scherer State Park | Downtown Sarasota |
| Date | November | March | May |
| Mission | To showcase blues music and support local charities | To promote and preserve folk music | To celebrate music, art, and activism while supporting the LGBTQ+ community |
| Headliners | Buddy Guy, Joe Louis Walker, and Shemekia Copeland | Tom Rush, The Kingston Trio, and Ellis Paul | The Greeting Committee, GASHI, and Tank and the Bangas |
| Activities | Live music, food, drinks, and merchandise | Live music, workshops, jam sessions, food, drinks, and merchandise | Live music, art exhibit, community activism booths, food, drinks, and merchandise |
In conclusion, Sarasota is home to several amazing music festivals that offer something for everyone. Whether you enjoy blues, folk, or activism, there is a festival for you. We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about the top Sarasota music festivals to experience.
Stay Up-to-Date with the Latest Sarasota Music Events
Sarasota, a city located in southwestern Florida, has become a haven for music lovers over the past few years. With its diverse music scene ranging from classical to jazz, rock to blues, and country to soul, Sarasota offers a variety of live performance events to suit all tastes. In this article, we will discuss how to stay updated for the latest Sarasota music events using the following subtopics:
1. The Sarasota Music Scene Overview
The Sarasota music scene is vibrant and diverse, catering to all musical tastes. From jazz clubs to concert venues, Sarasota offers a variety of settings in which to experience live music. Whether you are looking for an intimate performance or a large-scale concert, there is something for everyone in the Sarasota area.
2. The Importance of Staying Up-to-Date with Music Events
Staying up-to-date with music events is essential for music lovers in the Sarasota area. It allows for the opportunity to see your favorite bands live and discover new talent. In addition, attending live performances is an excellent way to support local musicians and boost the Sarasota music scene.
3. How to Stay Up-to-Date with Sarasota Music Events
There are various ways to stay informed about music events in Sarasota. Here are some of the most efficient and effective methods:
- Visit the websites of the venues you like:
- Follow social media accounts:
- Sign up for e-newsletters:
- Check out Sarasota music events websites:
- Use mobile apps:
The majority of venues in Sarasota maintain websites that list upcoming events. By regularly checking the website of a venue you like, you can stay informed of upcoming shows.
Many venues, bands, and promoters in Sarasota use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to advertise events. By following these accounts, you can receive regular updates on upcoming events.
Many venues, bands, and promoters in Sarasota offer e-newsletters that provide information on upcoming events. By subscribing to these newsletters, you can receive news and updates delivered directly to your inbox.
Various Sarasota music event websites compile a list of events happening in the area. Examples of such sites include Visit Sarasota, Discover Sarasota, and SarasotaMagazine.com. You can visit these sites to discover ongoing events in Sarasota
Mobile apps such as Bands in Town and Songkick provide customized and personalized concert recommendations based on your preferences, geo-location, and music history. Thus, giving you with a perfect way to discover new events in Sarasota.
4. Pros and Cons of Different Ways to Stay Up-to-Date with Sarasota Music Events
- Website Accessibility:
- Following Social Media Accounts:
- Newsletter Subscription:
- Checking Out Sarasota Music Event Websites:
- Using Mobile Apps:
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| Most venues have operating websites, so it’s easy to find their event schedules | It can be time-consuming to search several venue sites to discover upcoming shows |
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| It’s easy to share and invite friends and family to events with social media | You may miss important updates if you don’t check your social media accounts regularly |
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| You receive information on events directly to your inbox | It can be overwhelming to receive newsletters from multiple venues, bands, and promoters |
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| These websites deliver information in a simple format | The information provided on these websites may not be comprehensive |
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| These apps provide customized and personalized concert recommendations based on your preferences | The app may not have complete information about events, especially those hosted by smaller venues |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sarasota’s music scene is a fantastic way to enjoy live shows of all genres. By following the outlined methods of staying up-to-date with Sarasota music events, you will never miss out on your favorite bands’ live performances again. From visiting venue websites to using mobile apps, there is an approach to suit everyone’s preferences. So get ready to let loose, discover new music, and experience what Sarasota has to offer.
5. Best Places to Enjoy Live Music in Sarasota
Sarasota boasts a range of venues that offer great live music experiences to locals and tourists alike. From intimate jazz clubs to outdoor amphitheaters, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to catch live music in Sarasota.
1. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
The Van Wezel is Sarasota’s premier performing arts venue, offering a wide variety of shows ranging from Broadway musicals to orchestral performances. The hall seats 1,736 people and features state-of-the-art acoustics, making it one of the best places in Sarasota to catch a live music performance. The Van Wezel hosts concerts by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, as well as local acts.
2. The Gator Club
The Gator Club is Sarasota’s oldest bar and live music venue, originally founded in 1913 as a men’s social club. Today, the Gator Club is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering live music seven nights a week. The venue has a casual atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, and it is known for its blues and rock performances.
3. The Blue Rooster
The Blue Rooster is a contemporary blues club that features local and national artists. The club is known for its intimate setting, with just 50 seats available in the main room. The Blue Rooster also offers a full menu of southern-style cuisine and craft cocktails, making it a popular destination for dinner and a show.
4. Jazz Club of Sarasota
The Jazz Club of Sarasota is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting jazz music in the community. The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including jazz concerts, jam sessions, and lectures. The Jazz Club also coordinates the annual Sarasota Jazz Festival, which showcases some of the best jazz performers from around the world.
5. Nathan Benderson Park
Nathan Benderson Park is a 600-acre park that features a world-class rowing facility, as well as a variety of outdoor activities. The park also hosts a series of outdoor concerts throughout the year, with music ranging from blues and jazz to rock and country. The concerts are held at the park’s lakeside amphitheater, which has a capacity of 4,000 people.
6. Siesta Key Oyster Bar
The Siesta Key Oyster Bar, or SKOB for short, is a popular spot for live music and seafood. The venue offers live music seven nights a week, with a mix of local and regional acts. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with indoor and outdoor seating available. SKOB is also known for its oyster bar, which serves up a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
7. Marshal’s Patio Bar and Grill
Marshal’s Patio Bar and Grill is a local favorite for live music and pub fare. The venue features indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a stage for live performances. Marshal’s hosts a variety of local and regional bands playing everything from classic rock to country to blues. The menu features American pub fare, including burgers, wings, and sandwiches.
| Venue | Type of Music | Capacity |
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| Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | Various Genres | 1,736 |
| The Gator Club | Blues and Rock | NA |
| The Blue Rooster | Blues | 50 |
| Jazz Club of Sarasota | Jazz | NA |
| Nathan Benderson Park | Various Genres | 4,000 |
| Siesta Key Oyster Bar | Various Genres | NA |
| Marshal’s Patio Bar and Grill | Various Genres | NA |
- The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is the largest and most prestigious music venue in Sarasota.
- The Gator Club is the oldest bar in Sarasota and has a rich history of live music performances.
- The Blue Rooster is a favorite among locals and tourists for its intimate setting and southern-style cuisine.
- The Jazz Club of Sarasota is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to promoting jazz music in the community.
- Nathan Benderson Park is an ideal spot for outdoor concerts and offers a beautiful lakeside setting.
- The Siesta Key Oyster Bar is a casual venue that features a mix of local and regional acts.
- Marshal’s Patio Bar and Grill is a popular destination for live music and American pub fare.
In conclusion, Sarasota’s live music scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of performances and venues to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking to catch a Broadway musical or a local blues act, Sarasota has something to offer. So grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy the music!
FAQs: Sarasota Live Music Calendar
1. What is the Sarasota Live Music Calendar?
The Sarasota Live Music Calendar is an online resource that lists upcoming live music events in Sarasota, Florida. It provides information about the date, time, venue, and type of music for each event.
2. How often is the Sarasota Live Music Calendar updated?
The Sarasota Live Music Calendar is updated regularly to reflect the latest information about upcoming live music events in the Sarasota area. It is recommended to check the calendar regularly to stay up to date on new events.
3. How can I access the Sarasota Live Music Calendar?
You can access the Sarasota Live Music Calendar by visiting their website or by following them on social media. The calendar is available online and is free to use.
4. Can I submit my event to the Sarasota Live Music Calendar?
Yes, you can submit your event to the Sarasota Live Music Calendar by filling out the submission form on their website. Make sure to include all relevant information about the event to ensure it is listed accurately.
5. Does the Sarasota Live Music Calendar list all types of music events?
Yes, the Sarasota Live Music Calendar lists a wide variety of music events, including rock, jazz, blues, country, and more.
6. How can I search for specific types of music events on the Sarasota Live Music Calendar?
You can search for specific types of music events on the Sarasota Live Music Calendar by using the search feature on their website. You can also filter events by genre or date.
7. Is there a fee to use the Sarasota Live Music Calendar?
No, the Sarasota Live Music Calendar is free to use. It is a community resource that aims to promote live music events in the Sarasota area.
Yes, you can share events from the Sarasota Live Music Calendar on social media by using the share buttons provided on the website. This can help spread the word about upcoming events and support local musicians.
9. How can I get in touch with the Sarasota Live Music Calendar team?
You can get in touch with the Sarasota Live Music Calendar team by emailing them through their website or by messaging them on social media. They are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the calendar.
10. Why is the Sarasota Live Music Calendar important for the local music scene?
The Sarasota Live Music Calendar is important for the local music scene because it helps promote live music events and supports local musicians. By providing a comprehensive list of events, it encourages people in the community to attend shows and discover new artists.
Conclusion
The Sarasota Live Music Calendar is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the local music scene. It provides a comprehensive list of upcoming events, is free to use, and supports local musicians. After reviewing this article, we encourage you to check out the Sarasota Live Music Calendar to find your next favorite show. Support your local music scene and have a great time!