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Top Music Venues in Tempe: A Local Violinist's Guide

By Delaney Wood

Music has been a cornerstone of my life since childhood, when I sat beside my grandmother at the piano, captivated by her spirited songs. With 10 years playing violin and a current role in the ASU Philharmonia Orchestra, I relish attending live performances. Tempe and the surrounding Valley offer exceptional venues for musicals, rock concerts, orchestras, and more. As a Tempe native, here are my top recommendations.

Arizona State University
1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281

ASU hosts diverse musical events year-round. Enjoy professional Broadway shows at ASU Gammage or student-led concerts at Katzin Concert Hall nearby. These high-caliber performances are free or affordably priced. Check the Herberger Institute calendar and ASU Gammage events for upcoming shows.

The Marquee
730 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281

Nestled on Mill Avenue near Tempe Town Lake, The Marquee Theatre features top artists like Adele, Katy Perry, Fall Out Boy, Megadeth, Odd Future, and Lily Allen at accessible prices.

Tempe Center for the Arts
700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281

This versatile venue offers musicals, open mic nights, band concerts, free movie screenings, choir performances, and chamber orchestras. Catch live music, food, and drink specials during EDGE Happy Hour on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Tempe Symphony Orchestra
700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281

This all-volunteer community orchestra, based at Tempe Center for the Arts, performs four free public concerts annually.

The Phoenix Symphony
75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

Renowned for classical, holiday pops, film scores, and TV themes, highlights include Harry Potter in Concert, where the orchestra accompanies films live on a giant screen.

The Scottsdale Philharmonic
7601 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260

This donation-funded community orchestra delivers free classical concerts to the public.

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