Music and Opera In Los Angeles
Rock, Jazz, And Blues In Los Angeles
Still rocking the world, Sunset Strip boasts the venerable Whisky A Go-Go.
A rock’n’roll legend since the time it hosted performances by The Doors, it carries on the tradition by featuring gigs by many established artists.
Nearby, perennial favorite The Roxy may be somewhat cramped, but that does not deter the big names in rock from performing there. The Viper Room, with its line-up of promising new bands, also remains hugely popular with the young Hollywood crowd.
LA’s jazz scene is lively and characterized by cozy joints such as The Baked Potato, where there are weekly jam sessions, performances by well-known studio artists, and gourmet baked potatoes on the menu. A refined, classic atmosphere defines the well respected Catalina Bar & Grill, while Jazz Bakery offers a rarefied listening experience – there is no club scene, just a focus on the music.
Look for top soul and blues acts in House of Blues, and try its “Gospel brunch”. The grungy Troubador often hosts promising newcomers, while McCabe’s Guitar Shop is frequented by musicians for its emphasis on music and performances.
The acoustically perfect rooms at Knitting Factory present the latest folk and rock acts. The biggest names perform at LA’s arenas, including Staples Center,
Greek Theater, and Universal Amphitheater. Expect stratospheric ticket prices plus parking charges at these top venues.
Opera, Dance, And Classical Music In Los Angeles
The LA Philharmonic, which winters at the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a world-class orchestra. During the season, performances range from classical favorites to avant garde, modern works. The Philharmonic’s summer home, the recently renovated Hollywood Bowl, is famous for its magical musical moments, and is a perfect spot for relaxed alfresco picnicking.
The LA Opera, under the direction of Plácido Domingo, performs at the Dorothy
Chandler Pavilion between September and June. Chamber groups perform at various places, such as the Colburn School of Performing Arts, throughout the city.
Colburn also offers a season of free performances, including music, dance, and drama. Media City Ballet and other dance companies enliven Glendale’s historic Alex Theater. The acoustically outstanding Royce Hall is the main venue at the UCLA Center for the Performing Arts. More than 200 performances are featured annually, and offer an eclectic mix of vanguard theater, spoken word, music, and dance, with appearances by many prominent international artists.
At the Ford Amphitheatre, you can enjoy music, dance, and outdoor film screenings as you feast on a picnic under the stars.
