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.
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
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
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 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