Hearing Harmonies in Unique Lincoln Square Locations

While Lincoln Square is lucky to have multiple well-known institutions like Lincoln Center and Kaufman Music Center offering live music, there are plenty of other locations to also immerse oneself in the vibrant music scene. From churches to community centers to bars, each has its own distinct charm and allure. Keep reading to find out about the more non-traditional spots where music thrives in Lincoln Square.

A fan-favorite due to their prolific roster and unique classical experience, Jupiter Symphony Chamber Players perform at the Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church (152 W 66th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue). While the group is well into its 2023 - 2024 season, which began in September, they are performing for five more Mondays at both 2:00pm and 7:30pm. With themes like German Talent (March 25), Czech Specialties (April 8), Sinfonia Concertantes (April 15), Folk Roots (April 29), and Russian Splendor (May 13), as well as talented musicians, the only thing that makes the concert better is the intimate setting of the Church. To order tickets, call 212-799-1259 or fill out this order form.

A few blocks further away, Christ & St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church (120 W 69th Street between Broadway and Columbus Avenue) rents out its space at non-profit rates to musicians and groups looking for a rehearsal and performance venue through its Concert Rental Program. As a result, the space hosts a range of performances. Upcoming events include a cabaret benefit for the Friends of NYC Nurse-Family Partnership called Mom's The Word (April 4 at 8:00pm), a recital featuring Hans Pieter Herman (April 11 at 7:30pm), a celebration of the life of Christopher Kennedy (April 27 at 3:00pm), and the 2nd Annual Bohemians Young Artists Piano Competition (June 24 at 7:00pm). Each event has its own pricing and ticket purchasing method, but anyone can attend.

If you haven't satisfied your jazz fix at Jazz at Lincoln Center and Dizzy's Club at Columbus Circle, attend the Ethical Jazz Cafe held monthly at the New York Society for Ethical Culture (2 W 64th Street at Central Park West). On the second Friday of every month at 7:00pm, both members and guests can enjoy a performance featuring a different jazz group and refreshments like wine, beer, and soda. The next performance is scheduled for Friday, April 12, but the artists and ticket link have not been published yet. Check back here as the performance gets closer for more details. Ethical NYC often has other concerts during the month, so visit their events calendar to learn more.

If you really want to hear jazz in a unique location, get ready for the Lincoln Square BID’s very own Summer Jazz Sensations concerts. The series will return, bigger and better than ever, on June 19 at Dante Park and will continue every Wednesday at noon through September 18. More details to come!

For a more elegant musical experience, head over to Center Bar on the 4th floor of The Shops at Columbus Circle (10 Columbus Circle) for live music every night. The piano bar and cocktail lounge, offering sophisticated selections of savory and sweet small plates, is open for dinner from 4:30pm until 9:00pm. If you’re looking for a livelier scene, hit up the Empire Rooftop, located on the top floor of the iconic Empire Hotel (44 West 63rd Street between Broadway and Columbus Avenue), for a live DJ set every Friday from 8:30pm to 12:00am and every Saturday from 9:00pm to 12:00am. Get ready to groove to the rhythm of the beat while enjoying cocktails, light fare, and appetizers.

One of Lincoln Square’s greatest assets is its numerous connections to the arts. Whether you're a musician looking for a new venue or a music lover hoping for a unique experience, Lincoln Square has what you're looking for. For even more concerts and plenty of other events happening in and around the neighborhood, check out our Events Calendar.

Photo Credit: New York Society for Ethical Culture