Live Music Venues

St. Louis offers a wide range of vibrant musical attractions for visitors and residents alike. Some of the most popular musical attractions in the city include:

• The St. Louis Symphony, Powell Hall

• The Fox Theatre, a historic venue that hosts a variety of concerts and performances

• The Fabulous Fox, a theater that presents Broadway shows and other live performances

• The Muny, an outdoor theater that presents a season of musicals and other productions each summer

• The Old Rock House, a popular live music venue that features local and touring bands.

Additionally, St. Louis is home to many other music venues, festivals, and events that showcase a wide range of musical styles and genres. Whether you're a fan of classical, jazz, blues, rock, or any other type of music, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music in St. Louis.

St. Louis Music History

The history of music in St. Louis is rich and varied. St. Louis has a long history of musical innovation, with a particular focus on blues, jazz, and gospel music. The city is home to many notable musicians and bands, and has played a significant role in the development of American music. Some of the most famous musicians to come out of St. Louis include Chuck Berry, Miles Davis, and Scott Joplin.

How did the Gateway City become a musical powerhouse?

On view until January 22, 2023, "St. Louis Sound," a special exhibit at The Missouri History Museum in Forest Park, aims to answer this question, offering an interactive experience of the cultural and musical history of St. Louis from the 1800s to the turn of the 21st century.

According to a museum press release, "Situated at the geographic and cultural crossroads of the country, St. Louis is vital to the story of popular music in America. The region has produced legends who are on a first-name basis worldwide, like Ike & Tina, Miles, Chuck, and Nelly. It's been home to the 'Velvet Bulldozer' Albert King, the 'Black Venus' Josephine Baker, and the original 'king' of pop music, Scott Joplin. And don't forget world-class songwriters like John Hartford, Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy, and Willie Mae Ford Smith. Few cities anywhere can claim so many leading lights in such a wide range of styles."

In the early 20th century, St. Louis was a major hub for blues and jazz, and the city's vibrant music scene attracted many talented musicians. Some of the most notable figures in St. Louis blues history include Henry Brown, Big Joe Williams, and Doctor Clayton. In the 1940s and 1950s, St. Louis was home to a thriving blues scene, with many clubs and venues hosting live music. The city's blues tradition continues to this day, with many contemporary artists drawing inspiration from St. Louis's rich musical history.

Classical Music

The city is also home to the second oldest orchestra in the country. The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1880 by Joseph Otten. The St. Louis Symphony is widely regarded as one of the top orchestras in the United States. It has a rich history and a reputation for excellence, with highly skilled musicians and dynamic performances. The orchestra has won numerous awards and accolades over the years, including Grammy Awards and an Edison Prize. Additionally, the St. Louis Symphony is known for its innovative programming and collaborations with other musicians and organizations.