Going to see such acts live provides an inspirational experience, and will influence the musical tastes and creativity of our striving pianists in various ways. Whether you favour the intimate gig in a smaller venue, as provided by Acoustic Routes, or the vibrant atmosphere of a large crowd which can be found in The Cambridge Corn Exchange, students will find their needs catered for by the various venues in Cambridge. Here are four fantastic local venues we recommend...
The Cambridge Corn Exchange has been up and running since the 1800s, when it functioned as both a corn exchange and an entertainment centre. Since then the building has undergone considerable changes, and has been expanded and refurbished on various occasions. The venue is run by the Cambridge City Council and has hosted such profound events as the Folk Festival and Summer in the City. Providing opportunities for a number of new and up-and-coming artists, the Corn Exchange has showcased such famous artists as David Bowie, Oasis and Take That. This venue is conveniently situated right in the centre of Cambridge, only a twenty minute walk from the train station, and a couple of minutes away from the Grand Arcade car park. You can find this venue at: Cambridge Corn Exchange Box Office, 2 Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB.
Cambridge Junction is the hub of art and entertainment in the city. They seek to promote up-and-coming artists, providing a performance area for musicians which can hold an audience of 850 members. The Junction is partly financed by the Cambridge City Council and is highly involved with the community, reinvesting a hefty 50% of their income back into the business so it can fulfil the social role the company seeks to perform. Not only this, but Junction (CDC) Ltd is a registered charity (number 801637) and the business grants many donations to charity from the profits made. Located just fifteen minutes from the centre of the city by foot, you can find this venue at the following address: The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX.
Acoustic Routes is a relatively new venue, opened in 2001 by singer Bernard Hoskin. The aim of the venue is to showcase acoustic music in a small and intimate setting. Performances take place in the air-conditioned basement of the CB2 restaurant, located centrally in Cambridge. Acoustic Routes have showcased both national and international singers and songwriters, acoustic guitarists, and musicians who specialise in traditional folk, blues and Americana. Rated highly as one of the best small venues in Britain, Acoustic Routes has exhibited such fantastic acts as Gordon Giltrap, Clive Gregson and Boo Hewerdine, amongst many others. The concerts are organised by a team of workers consisting of Clare Freeman, Peter Foster, Dave Streatfield and Sue Marchant, who create a personal relationship with customers and ensure the success and smooth-running of the events held at the venue. Find Acoustic Routes at this address: CB2, 5 Norfolk St, Cambridge, CB1 2LD.
Man On The Moon
The Man on the Moon caters for live bands, DJ, and Dance nights, offering an air-conditioned venue at the back of the pub, fully equipped with in-house PA and a lighting rig. This room is soundproofed, fitted with a stage and the most up-to-date lighting and audio features. The Man on the Moon caters for up-and-coming artists, granting opportunities to aspiring bands and DJs across the region. Regular gigs are held for cheap prices, including a “Reggae” night every Thursday and a “Jamming” session on Mondays. Opportunities to hire out the venue and hold a gig night are also on offer, in which you can take on promotional responsibilities and control the organisation of the night. Find them at the following address: 2 Norfolk Street, Cambridge, CB1 2LF.
