Live Music in Edgbaston
Birmingham has its fair share of live music venues, although many seem to be spread around rather than concentrated in once specific area. Digbeth has The o2 Institute, The Crossing, Spotted Dog, Night Owl and Digbeth Arena to name a few. The Jewellery Quarter has The Red Lion, Actress & Bishop, Jam House and 1000 Trades, whilst suburbs such as Kings Heath and Moseley have The Hare and Hounds, Cuban Embassy and The Dark Horse. Yet one area that is often overlooked is Edgbaston...
Pop in for a coffee when you're close by. Or take a trip into the city?Traditionally sparse on bars and clubs, the area is going through a change with more footfall and businesses opening. So with that in mind, we take a brief look at the best places to catch a live band when you’re out and about in this leafy extension of the city centre.
The MAC
The MAC is a well established Brummie institution. Located in Cannon Hill Park, near Edgbaston, it attracts over 1,000,000 visits each year. The MAC specialises in contemporary work, with a busy programme of theatre, dance, independent cinema, spoken word, comedy, exhibitions and live music including a wealth of practical classes in all aspects of creativity, from playing musical instruments to ceramics and jewellery-making. The venue works extensively to support emerging and mid-career artists. Working both in a state-of-the-art building. If you are open minded and looking for some alternative world music, folk, or roots style sounds then look no further, The MAC has a fascinating programme of music to entertain your ears.
The Bull’s Head
Not quite Edgbaston but a five minute walk from Five Ways is The Bull’s Head on Bishopsgate Street. This historic old Davenports Brewery pub has seen a major refit in recent years in keeping with its Victorian heritage and that includes a make-over of the original club room upstairs. Apart from the regular cover musicians who perform, there is the legendary Henry's Blues nights which take place every Tuesday where you can catch the best in original live blues and rock. This night first started out in the mid 1960s and is still run by Jim Simpson who was the original manager of Black Sabbath. This venue is nearer to Edgbaston as it is the city centre and is well worth the short walk.
The Blue Piano
The Blue Piano is an independent guest house, restaurant and bar housed in a beautiful old Edwardian building. This family run business owned has been home to a very well respected South-East Asian restaurant and bar inspired by Singapore and Cambodia. However, The Blue Piano doubles as a great little live music venue which actually features a real ‘blue piano’. This music hub has become a destination for musicians and music lovers of Birmingham, due to its eclectic programme of live music. Most acts take centre stage in the main bar area so expect an intimate crowd, but never too loud.It is very much jazz led, with a touch of rock and blues thrown in for good measure.
