One of the oldest forms of entertainment is going out to experience live music and nowadays there are hundreds of different musical experiences available to those living in a city like Toronto. People from all around the greater Toronto area might come down to see the latest chart topper at the Rogers Centre or Massey Hall or you could listen to some jazz music while enjoying a meal and a drink at one of the downtown restaurants. Here is a guide to some of the most popular music venues in Toronto.
If you're looking for a huge concert with twenty thousand screaming fans than it will likely be held at the Rogers Centre, Air Canada Centre, the Molson Amphitheatre or Exhibition Place. This is where you will see people like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga and Simon and Garfunkle when they come through Toronto. The larger music festivals like Vans Warped Tour and North by Northeast take place in various locations throughout the city, from Arrow Hall to Nathan Phillips Square. These bring in people from as close as Oakville or Milton, and as far away as Buffalo and Windsor.
There are many great smaller venues throughout the city for those that are interested in independent artists and local talent. The Horseshoe Tavern has been running for more than sixty years and has helped start the careers of many Canadian bands and solo artists from Bryan Adams to Tragically Hip. If you're from as far off as London for example, and you're visiting the area than you should stop by to experience some of Toronto's music history. The Opera House, Lee's Palace, and the El Macambo are also great locations in the city's downtown to experience everything from modern punk music to folk artists from as far away as Europe and Australia.
For those interested in a relaxing evening as a jazz bar after a long day taking care of kids or on your international cell phone for many there is no better location than the Rex Jazz & Blues Bar on Queen Street. Reservoir Lounge and Trane Studio are also favorite locations of locals and people coming in from Montreal or across the border. Lula's Lounge features Latin jazz and Harlem is one of the up-and-coming locations and relished in African heritage.
Whether you're from Michigan or visiting from another country, there are some music festivals throughout the year that you should not miss if you are in the area. Caribana is a great time in the city and the Toronto Downtown Jazz & Blues Festival is always a delight. Find out all about the exciting event known as the Caribana Toronto Festival here.
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