Everything to Know About The Music Scene in The Berkshires
Music and the Berkshires go hand and hand. The region is widely known as a haven for artists, where performers gain inspiration from the stunning natural scenery and have developed a music and arts scene that is unique to the Berkshires.
Read on to learn more about the music scene in the area, including some of the venues and live events you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.
A Brief History of Music in The Berkshires
To say the music scene in the Berkshires runs deep would be an understatement. While many artists have passed through the region, the Berkshires are truly known for a thriving jazz and folk scene. The likes of Louis Armstrong and Janice Joplin have performed at local venues in the past and festivals like FreshGrass and Wilco’s Solid Sound now draw thousands of visitors each year.
Of course, you’ll also find your fair share of classical and contemporary music as well. The Boston Symphony Orchestra has called Tanglewood in Lenox its Summer home since 1937. Whereas MASS MoCA, known for its contemporary art, has also become a destination for seeing live music.
As you can see, the over the hundred-year history of music in the Berkshires is eclectic and truly one-of-a-kind.
Live Music in The Berkshires
Today, you’ll still find live music in the Berkshires, MA thriving. Here are just a few of the music venues in the Berkshires you can visit and what makes each of them unique:
Tanglewood
Tanglewood in Lenox, MA is, of course, home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. However, you will also find many award-winning artists, such as James Taylor, performing at this open-air venue in the summer.
MASS MoCA Live Music
You might not think of music when you consider the MASS MoCA museum. But the performing arts are an integral part of the experience. Check out the upcoming MASS MoCA live music performances for yourself.
Studio 9
Studio 9 is an intimate state-of-the-art recording studio and performance venue located in North Adams, MA. The venue boasts stunning architectural elements that not only look beautiful but also enhance the quality of sound to set an unforgettable vibe for live performances and professional recording.
And, of course, there are some amazing music festivals in the Berkshires, such as:
FreshGrass Festivals
FreshGrass Festivals that feature a diverse lineup encompassing the best in grassroots music — from traditional masters and iconic trailblazers to musical discoveries.
Solid Sound
Solid Sound at MASS MoCA is a three-day festival of art, music, and comedy that takes over the entire MASS MoCA campus every other summer.
Berkshires Arts Festival
The Berkshires Arts Festival is in its 21st year! At the Butternut Ski Area, you’ll find dozens of local artisans showcasing their artwork (which you can often purchase), along with live musical performances and more.
Check out this complete list for the most up-to-date live music events in the Berkshires.
Whether you’re visiting the Berkshires for a concert or multi-day music festival, make sure to book your stay at Porches Inn. The premier Berkshires inn places you in the heart of North Adam’s music scene and directly across the street from MASS MoCA.
Book Your Stay with Us Today!
Give us a call at (413) 664-0400 to book your musical escape in The Berkshires.
