In the heart of winter, when the cold winds blow, Pittsburgh's music scene is heating up with an array of performances that promise to keep audiences entertained. Despite some changes, such as the closure of Club Café, new venues like Haven are emerging, offering a vibrant stage for both local and touring artists. This winter, Pittsburghers can look forward to diverse genres, from rock and rap to jazz and classical, showcasing the city's rich musical heritage. The calendar is packed with events at various venues across the city, including Haven, City Winery, and Heinz Hall, ensuring there's something for everyone.
New Venue Haven Brings Live Music Back to Oakland
In the midst of a chilly winter, a fresh breath of life has been breathed into Oakland's music scene with the opening of Haven, a collaborative project between college students and the Pittsburgh Innovation District. Located in a former Byzantine Catholic church on Atwood Street, this new venue marks the return of live music to the area after nearly two decades. Opening its doors on January 10 with a sold-out show, Haven promises to be a hub for all-ages entertainment, featuring local rock bands like Mellow Honey and James Castle, as well as future additions of rap, R&B, and hardcore acts. Post Genre, the creative force behind Haven, also plans to open PG Studios in February, providing musicians with a space to rehearse, record, and create.
Beyond Haven, other venues across Pittsburgh are hosting an impressive lineup of events. Bottlerocket Social Hall will welcome Pitter Patter for an EP release show on January 17, while the Steel City Super Jam in February will bring together 20 local musicians for a unique performance. Meanwhile, the Byham Theater and Calvary Episcopal Church will host world-class ensembles, and City Winery will feature a mix of jazz, folk, and hip-hop performances. For classical music enthusiasts, Heinz Hall will screen "Star Wars Episode IV" with a live orchestra, and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra will perform works by Debussy and Dvořák. Jazz fans won't want to miss the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild's tribute to Oliver Nelson or the appearance of Germany's WDR Big Band.
The winter months will also see a variety of performances at smaller venues like Mr. Smalls, Original Pittsburgh Winery, and Rivers Casino, each offering a unique experience for music lovers. Whether it's a blues concert at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille or a pop punk album release at Mr. Smalls Funhouse, Pittsburgh's winter music scene is more diverse and exciting than ever before.
From the grand halls of Heinz Hall to the intimate settings of local clubs, Pittsburgh's winter music calendar is brimming with opportunities to enjoy live performances. With new venues like Haven leading the charge, the city is poised to become a year-round destination for music lovers. The diversity of genres and the inclusion of both established and up-and-coming artists make this season particularly special, reminding us that even in the coldest months, the spirit of live music remains alive and well.
As a journalist covering Pittsburgh's cultural landscape, it's clear that the city's music scene is not only surviving but thriving during what was once considered the slow season. The emergence of new venues and the continued support for local talent signal a promising future for live music in Pittsburgh. For residents and visitors alike, this winter offers a rare opportunity to experience a wide range of musical styles, fostering a sense of community and creativity that transcends the cold weather. It's a reminder that no matter the season, the power of music can warm even the chilliest of nights.