When it comes to live music, the choice on offer in the UK’s capital is second to none. Whether you have a niche taste, or just want to find something on a whim, you can guarantee that London’s venues will provide. But with gigs and concerts on all over the city every single day of the week, it can be impossible to know where to begin. Here are some of Home From Home’s recommendations for the beginning of March.
The Royal Albert Hall remains one of Britain’s best-loved concert venues with a truly outstanding programme all year round. However, the building is also home to a couple of smaller, more intimate spaces that make for a great atmosphere to see a live performance. Almost every Friday at 12 noon, the Hall’s Café Consort hosts a free lunchtime music session called Ignite. The lineup for March includes a jazz trio, a folk band, a brass band and a gypsy jazz dance band; all of which are guaranteed to wow you with their beautiful sounds.
Just north of central London in Highbury and Islington is a unique venue called Union Chapel. Still functioning as a church, its gothic architecture of vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows equate to incredible acoustics in magical surroundings. They have a varied entertainment programme including jazz every Sunday in their upstairs bar. However, Saturday 2nd March sees the venue open its doors at 12 noon for Daylight Music. The Mystery Fax Machine Orchestra is an alternative orchestra based in London who play original compositions and songs with a full classical line-up. They have become renowned for their innovative and often funny performances, and can often be found backing some big names in popular music. Support comes from Pocket Penguin. This concert is also free, with donations encouraged, and a great opportunity to scope out a wonderful building.
Puccini’s La Boheme takes residency at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden on the 2nd, 5th, 9th and 12th March. The Grade I listed building provides an idyllic setting to this classic masterpiece and is worth visiting whether you are an opera fan or just fancy a night of indulgent entertainment.
If it’s a night of jazz you’re after then Ronnie Scotts in Soho is probably London’s best known jazz venue. With a reputation for relentless high calibre line-ups from all over the world, you can be sure to have a great night no matter who’s playing when you walk through the doors. However, gracing the stage on the 5th and 6th of March is the legendary Chick Corea with his latest reinvention of the genre. This will be a rare chance to catch a glimpse of the master in his element.
For an alternative to the classic 50s speakeasy history of Ronnie Scotts, Vortex Jazz Club in Dalston Culture House is definitely worth a visit. It’s progressive approach is not only reflected in the line ups but also its non-profit ethos and self-titled record label. The building itself is also rather enticing.
Brick Lane in East London is home to numerous clubs and venues that specialise in nights of dubstep, reggae, electronic and even the odd acoustic gig. 93 Feet East is particularly well known for its experimental electronic music, often provided by live DJ sets and bands.
Wherever you decide to go, Home From Home has stunning properties in some of the city’s best locations. We also welcome the chance to advise you on places to see and things to do during your visit. For more information, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
