By Sarah Lennon
No matter where you are in the world, every community has one thing in common: live music. Arguably the most universally appreciated art form, music isn’t just for professionals. Local musicians are everywhere, including our very own Monadnock region! For anyone with a few bucks to spare, the best places to start getting involved in your town’s live music scene are local bars and restaurants. Musicians have been playing in restaurants practically since restaurants were invented, and there’s no easier way to bolster your local live music scene than by simply showing up! So grab an appetizer and catch some tunes at any of these venues around the Monadnock region:
Live music in Fitzwilliam
Fitzwilliam Inn: A quaint little place with a rich history to spend the night or congregate as a community. With open mics every Wednesday evening and live bands regularly making appearances on the weekends!
Live music in Hancock
The Hancock Inn: Another locally owned place to crash that offers a wide variety of performances and demonstrations year-round.
Live music in Hillsboro
Turismo Tavern: Check out the events section of their website to see what’s going on! They’ve got a few cool bands and other events lined up for the rest of the month.
Mama McDonough’s Irish Pub: A local hub for good food and entertainment – don’t miss out on weekend breakfasts!
Live music in Jaffrey
Sunflowers Restaurant & Fine Catering: Live music at least once a week, including a harpist – how unique!
Live music in Keene
Local Burger: Jam bands and tasty burgers make for a great Friday night. Try the chicken fingers, they’re to die for!
Brewbakers: Warm up with a latte and a cozy atmosphere in this small but popular coffeeshop. Take a peek at the rotating art on the walls, and catch some occasional live tunes.
Scores Sports Bar & Grille: Hosting a brand new open mic night, Wednesdays at 8pm! For more details or to sign up as a performer, email [email protected].
Machina Arts at The Hive: Hosting live music and bands from around the Northeast for an affordable cover! They’ve always got a stocked bar and friendly bar tender.
Live music in Milford
The Pasta Loft: The Pasta Loft boasts some of the best live music around – both original and cover bands.
J’s Tavern Under the Bridge: A full calendar of events, featuring open mics on Mondays.
Shaka’s Bar & Grille: Enjoy some all-American grub and local performers. Stop by to see what’s happening!
Union Coffee: This coffeeshop routinely hosts musical events that are fun for the whole family!
Live music in Peterborough
Harlow’s Pub: Dust off your dancing shoes for live music every Friday and Saturday
The Wreck Room: Self-described as both a pub and a live music venue, there’s bound to be something interesting going on.
Live music in Walpole
The Restaurant at Burdick’s: Enjoy some classy tunes at this upscale eatery – be sure to make a reservation!
Now that you’re in the know about the local music scene, it’s time to get groovy! Maybe you’ll even find a funky new band to get hot in your headphones. Stay tuned for Part Two to scope out the stage from the performers’ point of view. For now, bon appetit!
About the Author
Sarah Lennon is currently a student of Communication and Creative Writing at Keene State College in Keene, NH and an intern with Arts Alive. She originally hails from Charlestown, RI.
