Love music but on a bit of a budget? Or just looking to expand your horizons? Good news! There’s lots of free and budget-friendly live music to be heard in the city this winter.
Free Music in Utrecht
Tivoli’s Free Lunch Break Concerts
Tivoli hosts pretty regular free lunch concerts (at 12:30) featuring all sorts of artists. All you have to do is indicate that you’ll be attending before 10 AM the day of the show, as the venue can otherwise get too full. Make sure to check out the program to see all free concert options!
Vredenburgkade 11 | website
Saturday Concerts at the Dom
The Dom hosts free classical music concerts (with a voluntary contribution) most Saturdays at 15:30. What a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful setting! Concerts include performances by the Dom’s own choir as well as guest artists. Find the full program here.
Achter de Dom 1 | website
Jazz Podium at De Kargadoor
Located in the heart of the city centre, De Kargadoor is fully run by volunteers and offers a stage for readings, debates, workshops, theater, stand-up comedy, and – of course – music. They host a jazz podium every first Wednesday of the month for amateur musicians, and you’re welcome to bring your own instrument to join! Check out their full agenda here.
Oudegracht 36 | website
The Court Sessions at De Rechtbank
Every last Sunday of the month at 15:00, De Rechtbank partners with Sublime FM to put on free live concerts. Their house band plays soul, funk, and jazz, and everyone is welcome! Find their agenda here, or follow them on Facebook to get updates about the next event.
Korte Nieuwstraat 14 | website
Sofar Sounds Utrecht
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, sign up for Sofar Sounds. It’s an initiative that puts on secret, small, and intimate performances in everyday locations (like someone’s living room or a café). Keep an eye out for shows coming up in Utrecht here, and find out how to get tickets here.
Budget-friendly
Classical Music at the Nicolaïkerk
The Nicolaï church puts on concerts for tickets that usually range between 5 (students) and 10 euros. They’re planning a performance of compositions by HKU students on the 25th at 20:30. Get more information here as it becomes available.
Nicolaaskerkhof 8 | website
Food & Music at the Muzieklokaal
Every Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon, the Muzieklokaal serves up affordable, local Utrecht produce with live classical music, featuring a different choir or musician weekly. The Muzieklokaal focuses on pairing what you taste and what you hear. Definitely a cool way to enjoy live music! Check out their menu here and their schedule here.
Bemuurde Weerd OZ 13 | website
Know of anything else going on? Let us know in the comments!
Pictures: Susanne Sterkenburg