There’s so many things to see and do in Sydney that often visitors neglect the live music scene. There’s nothing quite like the energy and immediacy of a live music performance, and here in Sydney, almost every bar you go to will have, at some stage, a live band performing – rock, pop, or jazz – there are plenty of venues that cater to any musical preference. Here are a few of my favourite live music venues in Sydney.
The Vanguard, Sydney (Pic from: http://www.twoflatwhites.com)
The Vanguard
Red velvet red curtains and a 1920s vibe greet patrons who step into the Vanguard, located on King Street in Newtown. The stage is tiny, the space intimate. There is additional seating upstairs, and an option to dine in. This venue hosts Australian performers of all genres, but the focus is on folk, blues and jazz. The Vanguard is also one of the main Sydney venues for good burlesque. Located in the heart of alternative, busy Newtown, the Vanguard is a popular Sydney live music venue.
The Basement (Pic from http://www.thebasement.com.au)
The Basement
A stalwart on the live music scene, the Basement has seen its share of great musicians play the stage. Predominantly the scene here is of blues and jazz (my favourite live music venues would of course play my favourite genres of music), both local and international. Some of the best acts I’ve caught here include James Morrison and Tim Freedman. There are dinner packages available; otherwise just rock up, find a spot near the bar as the lights dim and let the music wash over you.
Inside the Opera House (Pic from http://www.musicalprom.com)
Sydney Opera House
A classic venue for live music, the Sydney Opera House offers much more than just opera. This iconic location plays host to a wealth of musical acts, including classical, modern, rock, world music, electronic, dance and even hip hop! The program is in constant flux, so the best thing to do is check out what’s on at the Sydney Opera House yourself. I’ve attended school concerts, symphony orchestras and musical hits and nothing compares to the grandeur of walking up the steps into the Opera House for a live performance.
The Enmore, Sydney (Pic from: http://www.inthemix.com.au)
The Enmore Theatre
Arguably Sydney’s best live performance venue, the Enmore is undoubtedly one of Sydney’s most loved. Located in Newtown, it hosts not just music, but also plays and stand up comedy nights. My favourite performance at this slightly-grungy, lcoal Sydney venue was an intense few hours of soul shaking blues by the Cat Empire.
Taking to the Open Road 