Published November 7, 2008
Live Music in Rochester
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Top five dependable venues.
Matt Mancuso

The city of Rochester is home to a staggering number of music venues spread out in terms of both their locations and the variety of music they showcase. In any case, they’re sure to keep your feet tapping.

Below is a list of the top five most dependable places in the Rochester area to see live music, from hard rock to blues, jazz, and even contemporary blends. All locations feature a rich history of delivering awesome music at a decent price, with a variety of new and emerging artists.


The Little Theatre

240 East Avenue
www.thelittle.org

This theatre is one of Rochester’s hidden gems. It opened its doors in 1928 “to provide an ‘intimate’ alternative to the large commercial movie houses of the day,” as their website states. The Little has never faltered in its commitment to bring high quality films — and now music — to a diverse audience. Live music is presented throughout the week, with a rotating lineup of musicians every month.

November Events:
7:30 p.m. on Mondays: The White Hots
7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays: The Margaret Explosion
7:30 p.m. on Thursdays (except 11/22): Lumiere
8:30 p.m. on Fridays: The Fred Stone Progressive Jazz Trio
8:30 p.m. on Saturdays: Kinloch Nelson Trio


The Penny Arcade

4785 Lake Avenue
www.myspace.com/thepennyarcade

About twenty minutes from campus, The Penny Arcade features live metal and punk bands. Opening in 1973, they have a tradition of bringing the best local and big names in music to Rochester.

Upcoming Events:
November 7: Caustic, Scalera, Dropclutch, Skinbound, and A Black Vendetta
November 8: xQUICKSILVERx, Rev Sharpten, Chaos Came To Be, and Yesterdays Heroes
November 14: Lowkey and more


The Water Street Music Hall

204 N. Water Street
www.waterstreetmusic.com

Another one of Rochester’s great places to see local and national talent, Water Street opened its doors in 1977 and has been continually voted the “Best Live Music Club” and “Best Live Entertainment Venue” in Rochester by Democrat and Chronicle. They feature a large capacity 3000 square foot room with a 1700 square foot balcony.

Upcoming Events:
November 7: Uncle Plum, Joey T and the Formula, and more
November 8: Donna The Buffalo with Who You Are


Boulder Coffee House: Music, Club & Café

100 Alexander Street
www.bouldercoffeeco.com

Arguably one of the coolest places in Rochester, Boulder features a snug and sophisticated bohemian atmosphere which captures the imagination and satisfies the appetites of music-loving patrons. They have a good selection of cozy tables and comfy couches as well as free Wi-Fi. They also serve coffee from Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters. Live music, open mic nights, and other free events are always freshly brewed for your enjoyment.

Upcoming Events:
November 12 & 19: Open Mic Jam
November 21: Liana Gabel


The Bug Jar

219 Monroe Avenue
www.bugjar.com

The Bug Jar has been a popular bar and venue since 1991, and hosts live music and dancing seven days a week. Dimly lit mood lighting combined with blaring techno music usually sets the tone of the vibrant and very young crowds who go here. A hipster haven, it has hosted some very big names in the business such as The White Stripes, Arcade Fire, and Modest Mouse.

Upcoming Events:
November 7: The Felice Brothers
November 8: Fresh Fingaz and Silly Cutty & Friends
November 9: Slither, Pengo, Evenings, and The Bloody Noes

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