New Jumbos looking to quench their thirsts for musical adventure need look no further than Boston and its surrounding suburbs. The area has a lively musical scene that caters to every taste. Here are a few of Beantown's best musical venues, ranging from fan favorites to hidden gems.
The Sanders Theatre is a charming and historic space, conveniently located at Harvard University — just two T stops away from Tufts — in Cambridge. The theatre was built in the mid-19th century to commemorate soldiers who had died for the Union in the Civil War. Although the space was never used for religious services, it has a distinctly cathedral-like atmosphere which gives it a wonderful ambiance for the acoustic and orchestral performances held there.
The unique architecture of the two-level theater, with its 1,166 seats, has a very low stage meant to give every onlooker a great view of the performers. Public concerts at The Sanders Theatre are primarily dedicated to classical music, performed by esteemed ensembles like the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra and Masterworks Chorale.
"Orchestral and chorale ensembles often comment of how much they appreciate the acoustics of Sanders Theatre," said Ruth Polleys, program manager. However, the venue also hosts several non-classical acts each season, often bringing in world-class performers like Joanna Newsom. Jeff Mangum, the leader of Neutral Milk Hotel, is also playing to a sold-out crowd in early September.
Tickets vary from $15 to $70 depending on the concert and seat location. The typical price for acts like Jeff Mangum and Joanna Newsom is $35.
Those willing to take a slightly longer trip can head to The Berklee Performance Center (BPC), one of the most acoustically advanced modern venues in Boston. Located in Back Bay near the Hynes Convention Center stop on the Green Line, the BPC has 1,215 seats arranged on two levels that gradually slope toward the stage.
The interior of the hall is a little stark, but the benefits of the space's minimalist design are evident within the first few seconds of the performance. What the hall may lack in terms of ambiance is more than made up for by its exceptional acoustics.
The Berklee Performance Center is terrific for instrumental music of all kinds. Unlike the reverb-heavy concert halls Boston is known for, the acoustics at the BPC are immediate and crisp. The venue's calendar usually boasts a bevy of accomplished artists. Alt-rockers They Might Be Giants will be playing at the BPC in early October, while more varied shows like Led Zeppelin tribute concerts keep things interesting. Tickets prices vary from $8 for Berklee productions to $80+ for world-renowned musicians.
Jumbos looking to stay close to home can hit up the Middle East. Located on Massachusetts Avenue by Central Square, the venue's colorful, eye-popping mural complimented by its bright purple and yellow facade make it immediately recognizable and draw attention away from its duller-looking neighbors. With breakfast served until 4 p.m., four different music rooms and crowds of patrons every night of the week, it's no wonder this venue is a hotspot local college hangout.
As far as music goes, "We're the best indie music venue in town," said publicity director, Clay Fernald. "We host all kinds, from dubstep to rock, hip hop to international acts."
The Middle East's smaller space allows for more intimate shows, but also lesser-known bands, often making it the venue of choice for aspiring local and out of state performers. "Eminem played here on his first tour," Fernald said, demonstrating how many of the performers have gone on to find success. The only disadvantage? Students should check the age limit on shows, which alternates between 18+ and 21+.
The Paradise Rock Club also airs on the side of indie music, but its larger venue size allows for bands of greater notoriety to perform.Upcoming acts include big indie names like The Shins, Portugal, The Man and Motion City Soundtrack, with tickets on sale for as little as $30.
Although it was recently renovated to allow for a more open atmosphere and larger capacity, the Paradise still manages to put on a fairly intimate show. The floor plan is open with standing room only, but there doesn't seem to be a bad "seat" in the house. The Paradise also makes a real effort to develop relationships with the bands it books, which usually makes artists eager to play a great show.
The only downside to the venue is the forty-minute commute from Tufts, since the venue is located near the Pleasant Street stop on the Green line on Commonwealth Avenue in Boston. However, shows typically end before midnight, giving students plenty of time to catch the T home. Plus, the shows are guaranteed to be well worth the trip into Boston.
