Live Music
Manchester is undeniably one of the UK hotspots for live music. With many of its most iconic venues based on the Oxford Road Corridor, we can confidently claim that music is part of our DNA and that we are proud of the long-standing musical heritage that continues to inspire future generations and fuel the city’s night time economy.
Oxford Road Corridor’s love affair with live music dates back as far as 1858 when Sir Charles Hallé formed Manchester’s symphony orchestra at the Lesser Free Trade Hall. Fast forward to 1966 and the Free Trade Hall would become part of musical history again when Bob Dylan was famously heckled for going electric. Ten years later the Sex Pistols played the “gig that changed the world”. Punk was born with Joy Division, The Fall, Magazine and The Smiths, not far behind.
Famous venues like the Ritz and the Academy have hosted many legendary acts over the years, whilst smaller venues such as YES, The Deaf Institute, Big Hands and Gorilla ensure the city keeps its finger on the pulse with an unrivalled programme of contemporary bands and DJs. For the traditionalists, the RNCM is one of the leading conservatoires in the world and The Bridgewater Hall is home to three resident orchestras: the Hallé, the BBC Philharmonic and Manchester Camerata.
Keep scrolling to find out more about best live music venues as well as upcoming gigs and concerts.
Upcoming Gigs & Concerts
RNCM Lunchtime and Spotlight Concerts occur throughout the year and are a great introduction to Manchester’s famous conservatoire.
A free concert from RNCM chamber musicians performing new works from student composers.
Guitarist Mike Walker returns alongside pianist and composer Nikki Iles for a jazz-filled soiree with the RNCM Big Band.
The Untold Orchestra are a partner for First Street Festival and will be programming the artists you’ll see 1-3 July.
Part of First Street Festival
Wilko Johnson, the original Dr Feelgood guitarist and all-round national treasure returns to the live music arena at RNCM.
Join RNCM as they round off an exceptional year of music making with a celebratory concert at The Bridgewater Hall.
The Untold Orchestra are a partner for First Street Festival and will be programming the artists you’ll see 1-3 July.
Part of First Street Festival
The Untold Orchestra are a collaborative orchestra made up of creative freelancers from across Manchester. Their aim is to play their role in supporting the amazing creativity present in communities across the city, through performances, workshops, collaborations and recording projects. Recent projects include Nina @ the NIA (a show remembering the legacy of Nina Simone […]
Part of First Street Festival
RNCM welcome Manchester Camerata to work side by side with their students in an exciting evening of music.
Richard Dawson joins forces with Finnish band Circle – described as “the world’s greatest band – in every category” – to bring their collaborative record onto the live stage.
Young musicians from leading music conservatoires across the world join RNCM students to explore The 21c Global Orchestra.Young musicians from leading music conservatoires across the world join RNCM students to explore The 21c Global Orchestra.
Back by popular demand! Get ready for an evening of music and comedy from star of the US version of The Office, Creed Bratton.
The sparkling synth pop and Motorik Krautrock of Manchester-based three-piece W.H. Lung head to Gorilla this summer.
Trailblazers! Women of Greater Manchester is a mini-festival at the Central Library celebrates histories of Greater Manchester women.
An exclusive double-bill at Manchester Academy with two of the most exciting contemporary jazz artists, Kamaal Williams and Yazz Ahmed.
A tribute to, and celebration of Bengali folk music, that has shaped the cultural identity of Bengali communities both in South Asia and the diaspora, including the UK.
Carrying the torch for NYC’s master MC’s; representing for the freaks, wierdos and underbelly culture.
Manchester Psych Fest is an all-day celebration of psychedelic music and art, returning to the Oxford Road Corridor in September.
Katy J Pearson heads to Gorilla, performing live on 22 September in support of her new album, “Sound Of The Morning”.
Black Angel: NewVision is an exhibition that looks at the present and towards the future representation of LBT Black and Asian women.
One of Manchester’s favourite multi-venue festivals is back! Neighbourhood Festival will be taking over Manchester city centre this October.
Late night late 90s pioneering club night Black Angel returns to Contact to celebrate their 25th birthday.
Northern Irish singer-songwriter SOAK comes to Manchester, performing at YES in support of their latest album If I Never Know You Like This Again.
Wu-Tang Clan MC and hip hop legend, GZA, heads to Manchester Academy to honour the 25th anniversary of his seminal album, Liquid Swords.
