Austin Texas Live Music Scene

"Touted as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” the city of Austin, Texas, has a rhythm of its own. With more live music venues per capita than any other music center in the world, Austin, TX dominates over other places known for music such as Nashville, Los Angeles or Las Vegas. The city of Austin, Texas offers several programs to assist musicians and to promote their music in a variety of genres, from country to blues.

Whether you are just arriving in Austin, Texas for the first time or you are a local coming home, you will be greeted at the airport with live music at three different airport venues. The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is just the first reminder that you’ve entered the “Live Music Capital” of Austin, TX.

The Plaza at the Austin City Hall puts on a music showcase with different scopes that highlight different musicians and their music. Free concerts are given between April and October at The Plaza, making the music series “Live From The Plaza” one of the more popular music venues around. The Parks and Recreation Department also highlights musical performances, with summer concerts in various locations, such as the Zilker Hillside Theater.

Many private organizations have emerged as a result of the hot music scene in Austin, TX. The city’s famous Sixth Street is the heart of the live music scene, with more than 50 nightclubs, restaurants, bistros and dance clubs showcasing the latest musicians in a variety of music styles. West of the business district lies what is known as Austin’s Warehouse District, fast emerging as another neighborhood devoted to live music. With edgier restaurants and clubs renovated from old warehouses, the Warehouse District features trendy bars, restaurants and amazing concert halls.

There are several theaters in Austin, Texas that spotlight more live music, such as Esther’s Follies. Located on Sixth Street, Esther’s Follies has featured live acts of magic, comedy, music and sketch comedy for more than two decades. The Frank Erwin Center hosts many concerts and other musical events from its Red River Street location. The Zachary Scott Theater is another place to enjoy a wide variety of live entertainment, from seasonal plays to old-fashioned music concerts. Austin, Texas has many other theaters located throughout the city that are just waiting to be discovered by eager residents.

Of course, the “Live Music Capital of the World” wouldn’t be complete with out music festivals, and Austin, TX hosts several noteworthy ones. Try out the Austin City Limits Music Festival, a 3-day celebration of Austin’s music. The Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Festival highlights worldwide talents in each category. The Urban Music Festival and the Old Settler’s Music Festival are two more popular events just right for the whole family."