Melbourne must have something in the water because incredible musicians are in ample supply. Kylie Minogue, Hiatus Kaiyote, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard make up just a few of the many musicians who have hailed from Melbourne soil. Additionally, it is the city with the most live music venues and performances per capita in the world so clearly, there is no shortage of great halls, record shops, or festivals in the city’s music scene. Here is our roundup of the top plans and spaces for music lovers in Melbourne.
1. Festivals
From completely free weekend gatherings to eight-day events, these festivals brings together stellar lineups of local and international artists for all music aficionados. This year, there’s plenty of festivals to look forward to and below you’ll find our favourites. Enjoy cutting-edge performances across all genres!
- Melbourne International Jazz Festival – 📆 October 2025 (dates tbc)
- Brunswick Music Festival – 📆 2-10 March 2025
- St Kilda Festival – 📆 15–16 February 2025
- Laneway Festival Melbourne -📆 14 February 2025
- Souled Out Festival Melbourne – 📆 22 February 2025
- Golden Plains Festival – 📆 March 8–10 2025
- Knotfest Australia Melbourne -📆 28 February 2025
2. Record shops
Beyond their impressive vinyl collections, many record shops in Melbourne offer live performances and DJ sets for music fans to connect, groove and enjoy performances in a cosy space. Particularly since the owners have insane knowledge about local and international artists, they tend to book incredible up-and-coming artists and support the independent music community.
For instance, at Wax Museum Records, you can engage with the music you love thanks to their Wax Music Lounge. Additionally, Rocksteady Records are specialised in hip-hop, soul, ska, reggae and dub culture. And if you love funk, soul and disco, Old Plates Bar hosts events like Disco Mediterranea and South African jazz nights.
📍384 Brunswick St Fitzroy 3065
3. Live music venues
Live music venues in Melbourne deserve an honourable mention because they are the beating heart of a city’s musical identity. Although they serve as launchpads for homegrown artists, they also offer a stage for international acts to captivate. From cabaret-style bars such as the legendary Forum and The Prince Bandroom to The Athenaeum Theatre, these spaces cultivate shared passion for music.
4. Late-night bars
When in doubt, Melbourne’s late-night bars buzz with energy and live music long after the sun sets. Think of iconic spots like the new-and-improved Cherry Bar in Little Collins Street that keeps the spirit of rock alive and the sophisticated Paris Cat for jazz enthusiasts. Then there’s Toff in Town that blends electric beats with a relaxed atmosphere and for a more refined vibe, Murmur Piano Bar invites you to unwind to soulful piano tunes as you sip on classic cocktails.
5. Concert halls
Melbourne Town Hall
The historic venue is home to an impressive concert hall that regularly hosts classical performances of iconic works by Brahms, Sibelius, and more, performed by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. However, a standout feature is its 9,592-pipe organ, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. It boasts an intricate design, but it’s its powerful sound that enthralls guests during special recitals.
Melbourne Recital Centre
Another premier destination for music lovers, this popular space is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics thanks to its modern design. At its heart lies the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, named after the Centre’s Founding Patron. Encased in 250mm of concrete and elevated to reduce low frequency noise, it offers crystalline sound, perhaps the best acoustics in town. What’s more, the hall hosts everything from classical ensembles to world-class contemporary musicians so you’re sure to find something you like year round.
6. Other music experiences
Australian Music Vault
If you want to learn more about the Australian music scene, the Australian Music Vault celebrates the rich history of the country’s contemporary music. Offering a free, immersive exhibition, it boasts countless iconic objects like lyric books, music instruments, costumes and tour memorabilia from artists like Kylie Minogue and AC/DC. It is thought as a “place to explore your love of music”.
📍 100 St Kilda Rd, Southbank VIC 3004
Melbourne Music Walk
For those that want to avoid the crowds, this self-guided 3,5 km walking tour is both educational and entertaining. Over the course of 90 minutes (or so), you can discover vibrant venues and historical sites, from the AC/DC Lane and Cherry Bar to Melbourne Town Hall. What’s more, stops include the Australian Music Vault and the iconic installation Federation Bells in Birrarung Marr.
Candlelight concerts
Performed by exceptionally-talented musicians, there is a wide-ranging selection of Candlelight concerts all year round. From classical greats and famous film scores to tributes to pop, rock and jazz legends, there is a Candlelight concert for every kind of music lover.
These performances are held in some of the most iconic music landmarks in Melbourne, as well as some atypical venues like the SEA Life Aquarium.
‘We call it’ Experiences
The popular ‘We call it’ series celebrates world-famous dance styles at top-rated destinations for live music fans in the likes of The Capitol. You can also see fiery flamenco, tango performances, jazz concerts that take you to 1920’s New Orleans, and much more!