Manchester is widely acknowledged as the UK’s music capital due to its rich legacy and a love for all things music. When it comes to planning the perfect night out for you and your music-loving mates, hitting up one of the many live music venues is the go-to activity. Depending on what you’re looking for, there is a blend of live music bars and destinations hosting vibrant gigs and club nights. However, there’s a lot more to explore. Continue reading to discover our top things to do for music lovers in Manchester.
1. Visit the awe-striking Bridgewater Hall
Although it counts as a live music venue, Bridgewater Hall deserves its own shout-out. With over 300 performances per year, guests can see diverse concerts, catch huge stars like Liza Minnelli, and enjoy hilarious comedic performances all in the same spot.
Classical music lovers will know that this is the place where Manchester Camerata and The Hallé (see below) plays and seeing them live at this modern venue should definitely be on your bucket list.
2. Hear symphonic works at Hallé St. Peter’s
Besides the MCE, Manchester is home to another prominent orchestra, namely The Hallé Orchestra, who rehearse at the historic Hallé St. Peter’s. It has premiered incredible works by composers like Elgar (Symphony No. 1 in 1908) and Vaughan Williams (Sinfonia Antartica in 1953) and continues to welcome renowned local and international musicians on its storied stage.
3. Go on a music-inspired walking tour
There are loads of walking tours across the city and some of them allow attendees to learn the city’s music history on foot. Such is the Manchester Music Walking Tour, an 105-minute walking tour of the city centre organised by seasoned music lovers and experts. It visits the Northern Quarter and focuses particularly on The Haçienda and the Free Trade Hall, where famous bands like The Smiths and Joy Division would perform.
4. Dig through vintage vinyl at these record shops
Seasoned music aficionados love a good record shop dig. But what’s really special about these retro places is that they serve as initiation spots for many young people who want to get into new genres, and they frequently host live music events for up-and-coming artists.
We’ve pretty much established by now that Manchester is a music capital so it goes without saying that it is home to many brilliant places, from the legendary Sifters Records to the always cool Wax and Beans and the wacky Rubber Ducky Records. The owners of these stores are also knowing and passionate about music and when in doubt, you can always ask them for recommendations.
5. Go to a Manchester University Music Society show
The student-led music society of The Manchester University offers over 50 performances every year. And although they’re mostly known for their classical concerts, thanks to their diverse ensembles, MUMS covers a great range from Mendelssohn’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ to contemporary pop music.
6. Explore Forsyth Music Shop
Its owners were initially to set up the Hallé Orchestra and now it is one of Manchester’s oldest remaining music shops—168 years old to be exact. Located on Deansgate, this family-run Manchester institution is a five-floor haven for both musicians of all levels and music fans alike.
Visitors can explore the spacious in-store piano showroom on the first floor, marvel at the innumerable guitars and violins, browse the extensive collection of sheet music, or seek expert advice from the experienced staff. All in all, roaming around the shop is one of the most fascinating things to do for music lovers. And for those in desperate need of inspiration, Forsyth’s rich musical heritage might just do the trick.
7. Rock out at Manchester’s live music venues
Venues may well be the first place to check for music-related plans but they’re still worth mentioning because there are heaps of famous spaces to choose from. Huge venues include the likes of The Ritz, Co-op Live and the AO Arena, which welcome big names, such as PJ Harvey. Then on Oxford Road, popular for its student nightlife scene, you can try your luck in Big Hands (named after “Blister in the Sun” by The Violent Femmes), The Deaf Institute (right around the corner), YES, as well as the Grade II listed Albert Hall (from the Trof empire).
The Northern Quarter is home to Gorilla, another Trof baby, and Band on the Wall, where BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Craig Charles does the monthly Funk and Soul Club. What’s more, jazz aficionados can noodle around at the following jazz clubs: Matt And Phreds, La Gitane, The Blues Kitchen, and Albert’s Schloss.
8. Catch a magical musical
Whether you’re still a theatre kid at heart, or simply appreciate the role music plays in storytelling, a well-known musical is always a great option for music aficionados. It is an immersive experience where you can hear your favourite scores come to life in real time with incredible choreography and stage design. Moreover, the orchestrations have emotional depth, are memorable and they often accompany us in our daily lives, most likely when cleaning up or showering.
Luckily, this year is looking bright for Manchester as it is welcoming Mary Poppins, Chicago, 13 Going On 30 – The Musical, and so much more!
9. Party at a vibrant music festival
Another popular activity for music fans is going to one of Manchester’s music festivals that showcase local and international musicians and DJs. Some of the most famous include Parklife, Neighbourhood Weekender, Sounds of the City, Outbreak and Kendal Calling. Additionally, for those that want to have fun with the whole family, Moovin Festival in Marple Bridge is a great choice.
10. Dance the night away at an electric nightclub
The Warehouse Project, Club Liv, SOUP, Satan’s Hollow and On Bar are just some of the places to go clubbing in Manchester. But frankly, the options are endless for every taste, from gritty basement venues to gigantic and luxurious clubs.
11. Belt out your favourite melodies at karaoke
It doesn’t matter if you can’t sing like a pro. What truly counts is sharing moments of joy with fellow music enthusiasts at a vibrant spot buzzing with energy. Plus, you get to step into the shoes of your favourite diva or artist and live the full fantasy.
The karaoke bars in Manchester burst with life and pzazz. Whether you sing a heartfelt ballad at a private room in Blues Kitchen Manchester, an off-key rendition of “Always on my Mind” at Bunny’s Karaoke, or bring the house down at K2 Karaoke, karaoke is always a guaranteed recipe for a great night out.
12. Attend a Candlelight concert
Last but not least, one of the best things to do for music lovers is definitely seeing a magical Candlelight concert. Set in gorgeous and historic venues like Manchester Cathedral, these tributes breathe new life into timeless classics and contemporary music across genres. You can expect programmes guided by the melodies of the likes of Vivaldi, Queen, Taylor Swift or Coldplay year round, all lit up by thousands of twinkling candles.
👉 If you’re intrigued, there are plenty more reasons to attend Candlelight, from the atmosphere to the musicians.