Edinburgh’s live music scene is an electric symphony. On any given night of the week, expect to hear guitar riffs, jazz groves, traditional melodies and spontaneous singalongs echoing throughout the city.
If you love the drama of a grand concert hall, we’ve got that. If you prefer laid-back vibes in a snug bar with a pint, we’ve got that too. However you like your music, polished or raw, Edinburgh has something for all everyone.
Take a look at some of the places in the city where the music takes centre stage.
Big sounds on grand stages
For those who love the feel of as crowd moving as one to the beat, Edinburgh boasts venues that blend history with acoustics.
The Usher Hall is a sweeping, neo-classical concert hall where classical meets contemporary. If you haven’t heard a film score or symphony swell beneath its impressive dome, you’re missing a true Edinburgh experience. While originally built as a place of worship in the 1820’s, The Queen’s Hall has now taken on a new lease of life – its incredible acoustics are perfect for its rotating programme of classical, jazz, folk and everything inbetween.
Taking place every summer against the castle’s mighty backdrop, Edinburgh Castle Concerts are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Nothing quite prepares you for the thrill of soaring music as the evening’s sun slips behind the battlements. These concerts are spine-tingling in all the right ways.
Explore more of Edinburgh’s live music venues.
City hideaways
Beyond the showstoppers, the soul of Edinburgh’s live music thrives in small places with big personalities. Dripping with art deco glamour, The Voodoo Rooms serve up funk, soul, jazz and cabaret vibes. If you’re after foot-stomping Celtic energy, head to Malones Edinburgh or Finnegan’s Wake. If jazz is more your thing, the aptly-named Jazz Bar is a beacon for mellow tunes and spontaneous jam sessions.
Self-described as “Scotland’s most haunted pub”, The Banshee Labyrinth is a gothic mix of bars and live stages, and a mecca for alternative sounds and edgy gigs. Or for a late-night show with tunes, cocktails and an anything-goes kind of vibe, head to Fingers Piano Bar.
For an atmosphere completely unique, don’t miss the chance to see one of the events taking place at Pianodrome. This stunning amphitheatre is made entirely from reclaimed pianos, making it feel less like a venue, rather than a work of art. They host a regular programme of concerts, which feel immersive and something quite special.
Discover more of Edinburgh’s live music bars.
Open mic opportunities
Craving a spotlight moment of your own? Or just love the unpredictability of discovering something new? Edinburgh’s open mic circuit is where you could possibly see tomorrow’s stars.
Tune up your voice for Home’s regular Thursdays night open mic night; dazzle the weekend crowd at The Fox and Faun; rock the crowd The Black Rose Tavern or become a legend in your lifetime at Legends.
For something a little more off the radar, head to Barnton Bunker. This subterranean space is Scotland’s largest nuclear bunker and ex top secret and classified Cold War complex. Welcome to all voices, keep an eye of their social channels for upcoming open mic dates.
Wherever you find yourself in the city: castle-top or underground bunker, Edinburgh is alive with music. Make sure you get a front row seat.
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
