Discover the vibrant pulse of live music in New York City’s East Village at the legendary 11th Street Bar. Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and dedication to showcasing diverse musical talent, this beloved neighborhood spot offers live performances five nights a week, from Sunday through Thursday. Whether you’re a connoisseur of traditional Irish tunes, a jazz aficionado, or a lover of Americana sounds, 11th Street Bar provides a welcoming stage for both established and emerging artists.
A Week of Diverse Sounds: The 11th Street Bar Live Music Schedule
The 11th Street Bar has meticulously curated a weekly music program that caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there’s always something captivating on offer.
Sunday: Immerse Yourself in Traditional Irish Seisiun
Sunday nights at 11th Street Bar are synonymous with the enchanting sounds of Traditional Irish Seisiun. This long-standing New York City tradition, expertly hosted by Tony DeMarco and Isaac Alderson, draws in some of the finest traditional Irish musicians from across the globe. Starting at 9 pm and continuing late into the night, the Sunday Seisiun is a must-experience for anyone seeking authentic Irish music in a warm and convivial setting. Expect spontaneous collaborations and a truly immersive cultural experience.
Monday: Experience the Smooth Vibes of Jazz Night
Monday evenings transform 11th Street Bar into a haven for jazz enthusiasts. Home to the exceptional 11th St. Quintet, led by Richard Clements and Murray Wall, Jazz Night features a rotating cast of top-tier jazz musicians from the city’s vibrant music scene. This house band creates a consistently high-quality jazz experience, making Monday nights a dedicated destination for those seeking sophisticated sounds and improvisational brilliance. 11th Street Bar exclusively dedicates Mondays to Jazz, ensuring a focused and exceptional experience for genre lovers.
Tuesday to Thursday: Explore the Realm of Americana Music
From Tuesday through Thursday, the 11th Street Bar’s stage comes alive with the spirit of Americana music. Encompassing genres like rock, country, and blues, these nights showcase a rich tapestry of American musical styles. The bar takes pride in supporting its local music community, primarily featuring musicians from the neighborhood and surrounding areas. You can expect lively performances from bands dedicated to original music, contributing to the vibrant and authentic atmosphere of the venue. While singer-songwriters are appreciated, the focus tends to be on bands that bring an energetic and collaborative performance to the stage. It’s important to note that 11th Street Bar typically reserves Fridays and Saturdays for private parties and does not generally host bands on these nights.
For Musicians: Performing at 11th Street Bar in the East Village
11th Street Bar is committed to fostering a supportive environment for musicians, while also respecting its residential location within the East Village. Understanding the performance conditions is key for bands interested in playing at this established venue.
Due to licensing restrictions associated with its side street location, 11th Street Bar operates without ticketed events, cover charges, or permitted queues outside the premises. Therefore, the tip bucket system serves as the primary form of compensation for performing musicians. Bands are encouraged to actively engage with the audience and can circulate the tip bucket as frequently as they deem appropriate throughout their set. Selling merchandise is also welcomed, providing an additional avenue for bands to connect with fans and generate revenue.
Maintaining positive relationships with neighbors is paramount for 11th Street Bar. As such, volume levels are carefully monitored. Bands must adhere to a sound limit of 105 decibels, measured by a ceiling-mounted monitor. To ensure smooth transitions and sound consistency, the bar provides a house drum kit and bass amplifier for all performers. Additionally, a stand-up piano and a selection of guitar amplifiers are available for use. The sound system is anchored by a Midas M32 mixing board with 8 channels, and the bar provides 4 microphones and stands. A dedicated sound engineer manages the mixing board and lighting, ensuring a professional and balanced sound for both the performers and the audience.
For bands seeking a potential booking, 11th Street Bar values commitment and engagement. Bringing a dedicated audience to your performance and delivering a successful show are crucial steps towards future opportunities. Following a successful initial performance and the proper storage of backline equipment, discussions regarding future bookings are welcomed.
If 11th Street Bar sounds like the right venue for your band, and you’ve carefully considered the information provided, musicians are invited to reach out. Fill out the provided contact form, detailing why your band would be a good fit for the venue and its discerning audience. Please allow time for review, as the booking process is selective. The bar prioritizes bands who demonstrate they have thoroughly read and understood the booking guidelines. 11th Street Bar typically books only three bands per week, emphasizing quality and fit over quantity. Applications that clearly indicate a lack of attention to the provided information may not receive a response. We look forward to hearing from you and experiencing your music at 11th Street Bar!
