Nestled in the heart of New York City, the 11th Street Bar is a vibrant venue offering live music enthusiasts a diverse range of genres five nights a week, from Sunday through Thursday. This intimate setting has become a staple for both local New Yorkers and visitors seeking authentic musical experiences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Irish tunes, smooth jazz, or the soulful sounds of Americana, the 11th Street Bar has something to offer every discerning ear.
A Greenwich Village Hub for Live Music
Located in the iconic Greenwich Village, the 11th Street Bar provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements its rich musical offerings. This neighborhood, steeped in artistic history, provides the ideal backdrop for a bar dedicated to showcasing live talent. The 11th Street Bar prides itself on being a community-focused venue, fostering a space where musicians and music lovers can connect and share their passion.
Diverse Music Genres Every Night of the Week
The 11th Street Bar’s commitment to live music is evident in its carefully curated weekly schedule:
Traditional Irish Seisiun – Sundays
Sunday nights at the 11th Street Bar are dedicated to the time-honored tradition of Irish Seisiun. Recognized as one of the longest-running seisuns in New York City, this weekly event is expertly hosted by Tony DeMarco and Isaac Alderson. They are regularly joined by a rotating cast of world-class traditional Irish musicians, creating an authentic and spirited atmosphere. The music begins at 9 pm and continues late into the night, offering a perfect way to wind down the weekend with lively jigs and reels.
Jazz Night – Mondays
Monday nights transition to the sophisticated sounds of Jazz Night. The 11th St. Quintet, the bar’s house band led by Richard Clements and Murray Wall, takes center stage. Each week, they are joined by some of New York City’s most talented jazz musicians, ensuring a dynamic and captivating performance. The 11th Street Bar is exclusively dedicated to jazz on Monday nights, making it a must-visit destination for jazz aficionados in the city.
Americana Music – Tuesday to Thursday
Tuesday through Thursday evenings at the 11th Street Bar are dedicated to the broad and captivating genre of Americana music. This encompasses a variety of styles including Rock, Country, and Blues, offering a diverse listening experience throughout the week. The bar focuses on showcasing local musicians, fostering community spirit and providing a platform for emerging talent. While cover bands are rarely booked, the emphasis remains on original music and artists who contribute to the vibrant local music scene. Singer-songwriters are generally featured as part of a band, ensuring a full and engaging sound for the audience.
Important Information for Musicians
The 11th Street Bar operates under specific conditions due to its location on a side street, ensuring a harmonious relationship with its neighbors. It’s important for musicians interested in performing to note the following:
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Tip Bucket Policy: In accordance with its liquor license, the 11th Street Bar does not host ticketed events or charge a cover. Therefore, the tip bucket serves as the primary source of income for performing bands. Bands are encouraged to actively engage with the audience and may pass the tip bucket as often as they deem appropriate. Merchandise sales are also welcomed as an additional revenue stream for musicians.
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Sound Level Considerations: Maintaining positive neighbor relations is paramount. Therefore, bands are required to adhere to a sound limit of 105 decibels, monitored by a ceiling-mounted sound monitor. The bar provides a house drum kit, bass amp, standup piano, and a selection of guitar amplifiers. A Midas M32 mixing board with 8 channels, 4 mics, and mic stands are also available and managed by the bar’s sound engineers.
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Booking and Future Opportunities: The 11th Street Bar values building lasting relationships with musicians. A successful performance that draws a crowd and resonates with the bar’s atmosphere can lead to discussions about future bookings. Mutual respect and cooperation, including proper equipment handling, are essential for establishing a positive working relationship.
If you are a musician or band who believes your music aligns with the 11th Street Bar’s vibe and are committed to respecting its guidelines, you are invited to reach out. The bar carefully reviews all submissions, seeking bands that are a good fit for its weekly music program. Due to the limited number of weekly slots, thoughtful and informed applications are greatly appreciated.
The 11th Street Bar in New York City stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of live music. With its diverse weekly program, community focus, and dedication to providing a platform for talented musicians, it remains a vital destination for anyone seeking an authentic and engaging live music experience in Greenwich Village.
