Music Venues in Portland: From Classical to The Crystal

By Nick Azer

As with most of the arts in Portland, the music here is legendary. And not just for the contemporary shows; world-class symphony, jazz, and other venues abound. If you’re grooving for a night for the ears to remember, Portland’s got the styles and places for you. Here’s a look at five famous features of the expansive music scene:

Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall

Classical/General

A stunningly beautiful hall with top-notch acoustics, the home of the Oregon Symphony hosts a wide range of genres; previous performers range from Pearl Jam to Bill Maher. Whatever your tastes may be, this is the place to be to take in quality sound at its best.

1037 SW Broadway, www.pcpa.com

Crystal Ballroom

Contemporary/General

Portland’s marquee destination for contemporary concerts, the Crystal’s famous bouncing floor (with rubber beneath the hardwood) and constant stream of A-list shows will make this cozy all-ages marvel a regular destination for any modern music lover. 1332 W Burnside, www.mcmenamins.com

Aladdin Theater

Contemporary

A great venue in a venerable (but hip) building with an old movie-house setup, a steady flow of highlight acts can be found coming round to this Southeast icon in any given month. 3017 SE Milwaukie, www.aladdin-theater.com

Kells Irish Restaurant + Pub

Irish Shenanigans

Known as one of the best Irish venues this side of the Atlantic, this flavorful downtown icon will help bring out the Irish in ya any night of the week. Live music at 9pm daily. 112 SW 2nd, www.kellsirish.com

Jimmy Mak’s

Jazz

“Jazz. Food. Jazz.” With that mantra, and music every Monday through Saturday at 8, this nationally-known venue is recognized as “One of the world's top 100 places to hear jazz” (Down Beat magazine). It is sure to satisfy your craving for cool anytime you feel like sliding on down to see what really makes the Pearl smooth. 221 NW 10th, www.jimmymaks.com