Free or Inexpensive Music Experiences For Families in NYC
The best way to get your child or teen interested in music is to let them experience it live, alongside other music enthusiasts. Whether you catch a Broadway show, jazz in the park, or the New York Philharmonic, nothing can beat the texture of the sound, and the energy of the crowd in a live environment. But musical experiences aren’t always cheap, and for families living in NYC, the cost of living is already quite high.
Here is a list of ideas for getting your family interested in music without breaking the bank. If your child exhibits enthusiasm after a show, it’s then worth investing in music lessons.
Free Outdoor Concerts
Central Park SummerStage is one of the most popular venues, offering a diverse lineup of performances that range from classical and jazz to hip-hop and indie rock. Families can enjoy a picnic in the park while listening to live music under the stars. Similarly, the Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn hosts the Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival, featuring free performances that cater to a wide range of musical tastes.
The Metropolitan Opera’s Summer HD Festival
For a taste of high culture, families can attend The Metropolitan Opera’s Summer HD Festival, which screens free, high-definition broadcasts of popular opera performances. Held at Lincoln Center Plaza, this annual event is a fantastic opportunity for families to experience world-class opera in a relaxed, open-air setting. The screenings are family-friendly, and the atmosphere is casual, making it an ideal introduction to opera for children. Many families with high school theater enthusiasts enrolled in voice lessons in New York City attend these shows, and it can be very inspiring to see people who have “put in the work” succeed on the stage.
Lincoln Center’s Midsummer Night Swing
Lincoln Center’s Midsummer Night Swing offers an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy live music and dance together. Held in Damrosch Park, this series features a variety of dance bands and styles, including swing, salsa, and disco. Each evening begins with a dance lesson, making it accessible for everyone, regardless of their dance experience. Tickets are affordable, and children under 10 can attend for free, making it a budget-friendly outing.
Free Performances at Juilliard School
The Juilliard School, one of the world’s leading performing arts conservatories, offers numerous free concerts and recitals throughout the year. These performances showcase the talents of Juilliard’s students and provide a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy high-quality classical music. From orchestral concerts to solo recitals and chamber music, there is always something to enjoy. Check Juilliard’s event calendar for a schedule of upcoming performances.
Make Music New York
Make Music New York is an annual, city-wide festival that takes place on June 21st, the summer solstice. This unique event features hundreds of free outdoor concerts in public spaces across the five boroughs. Families can wander through the city and discover a wide range of music, from jazz and classical to rock and hip-hop. The festival encourages community participation, with opportunities for both professional and amateur musicians to perform.
Levitt Pavilion’s Summer Concert Series
Located in MacArthur Park, Levitt Pavilion hosts a summer concert series that offers free performances spanning various genres. Families can enjoy evenings filled with music, dance, and community spirit. The concerts are held in a beautiful outdoor setting, providing a perfect backdrop for a family outing. Bring a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy an evening of live music under the stars.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum offers various music-related activities and performances as part of its programming. While there is a nominal admission fee, the museum frequently hosts free events, especially on Thursday afternoons and during special family days. These events often include interactive music sessions, where children can try out different instruments and learn about various musical traditions.
Brooklyn is also home to a host of classical music activities and groups for young adults, so whether you’re looking to make friends or gain inspiration, there’s something there for you.
Staten Island Philharmonic’s Free Concerts
For families living in or visiting Staten Island, the Staten Island Philharmonic offers free concerts throughout the year. These performances often take place in parks, community centers, and other public spaces, making them easily accessible. The Philharmonic’s concerts feature a mix of classical and contemporary music, providing an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages.
NYC Parks Summer Concerts
NYC Parks hosts a series of free summer concerts in parks across the city. These events feature local bands and musicians, offering a platform for emerging artists while providing free entertainment for the community. Families can explore different neighborhoods and enjoy live music in a relaxed, outdoor environment. The variety of genres ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Summer Thursdays
MoMA’s Summer Thursdays program offers live music performances in the museum’s Sculpture Garden during the summer months. Admission to the garden is included with museum entry, and children under 16 can visit for free. The performances feature a mix of contemporary and experimental music, providing a unique cultural experience for families. After exploring the museum’s art exhibits, families can unwind with an evening of live music.
New York City’s music scene offers countless opportunities for families to enjoy live music together without spending a fortune. From free outdoor concerts and opera screenings to affordable dance nights and museum events, there are numerous ways to experience the city’s rich musical heritage.
