Luxembourg has become an important destination, not just for the European tours by major international groups, but as a part of Europe that offers a rich tapestry of fans, tastes and audiences.
Promoters and agents now – after incredible work from those behind the scenes– acknowledge that, instead of being a calendar-filling stopover, Luxembourg has the capacity to significantly add to a band/act/star’s lustre.
It is often said by those that play here what a wonderful and unexpected experience it has been. And they aren’t wrong.
Here is a round up, in no particular order, of the venues in Luxembourg where you can catch your next favourite band.
Popping up in 2005, the country’s first ‘purpose built’ venue for amplified music became a key player in attracting larger acts to Luxembourg. Rockhal offers two main concert halls (with capacities for 6,500 and 1,200 people respectively) that can be adapted to house varying audiences, while a smaller venue for showcase gigs Rockhal Floor can host up to 200 people.
Programmes for youth to explore and develop their musical and arctistic ambitions can be found in Rocklab, while a recently opened Rockhal Café welcomes music lovers and concert goers with fresh pints and hot food.
Tucked into the charming cobbled streets of the old town, De Gudde Wëllen offers an alternative vibe while making everyone feel at home. The cosy venue opened its doors in December 2014, offering a wide range of events featuring live concerts from local and regional bands, screenings, lectures, electronic nights and other performances.
Arguably Luxembourg’s most well-loved venue. This former garage hosts headliners with world-class reputations in an intimate atmosphere, and performing musicians have marvelled at the unique ‘front-loading’ nature of the venue: without a backstage, the audience is treated to an upclose view of the band as they set up and enter/exit the stage. Capacity is at just over a thousand people.
Since its inception in 2009, Rocas has grown into a space for music, theatre, live DJ sets, and as they promise, “good music, good beer, good vibes”. This is the spot for amateur and semi-professional bands to get started, and professional bansd who keep the quality high. With two spaces in two levels, capacity peaks at about 40 people.
Once a site for train and bus repairs, Rotondes is now a culturally significant site, bringing music, art, and dance to the city centre. Performing acts are an even split of local and international bands, and the music management team has one guideline: they never feature the same band twice. Expect an eclectic mix of music catering to all tastes.
Liquid is a well-known bar with a relaxing atmosphere that offers regular and very popular jazz and blues concerts. This little venue is key in supporting the local scene and talents, as well as international artists.
Esch’s ‘other’ cultural centre, ‘Kufa’ in short, is housed in a former municipal abattoir. It offers art-related events and activities throughout the year, including theatre, cinema, concerts and dance.
Beautifully situated with a stage set against Luxembourg’s dramatic cliffe, a number of festivals, events, and concerts are held here. Perfect for late summer evenings, ideal for appreciating good music and the country’s stunning nature.
Found in Dudelange, this venue has a wide ranging list of events – classical, new, singer-songwriter and pop-rock – as well as cabaret, theatre, contemporary dance and entertainment for children. The Like a Jazz Machine festival presents famous names of the international jazz scene as well as performers from the lively Luxembourgish jazz scene.
Situated on the Kirchberg plateau, this multi-purpose convention destination hosts large scale music events and caters for exhibitions and shows.
One of Europe’s most renowned concert halls, the Philharmonie is a venue that best represents the Grand Duchy’s growing stature. A programme as varied as it is rich in quality, with acoustics that are among some of the best to be found anywhere, this glorious structure is a gem.
The cosy and welcoming Konrad features intimate concerts and jam sessions, including what they call ‘Luxebourg’s oldest open mic’. Sip a coffee or a cocktail in this homey spot in the city!
The Casino 2000 is not only a gambler’s paradise, it offers all kinds of concerts regularly: from jazz to DJ sets, acoustic chill to live lounge sessions.
This is the place to go to for local and regional punk and metal acts right in the heart of Belval. Expect a raucous evening with loud beats and a friendly atmosphere.
Concert hall and music school based outta Bertrange, this little known treat is well worth seeking out.
The cultural, touristic and congress center of the City of Echternach, home of the European Union Baroque Orchestra (EUBO) and a regional music school.
Found in Ettelbruck, CaPe (Centre des arts pluriels Ed Juncker) is one of the most important cultural venues in the Grand Duchy. It features classical music, operetta, jazz, and musicals, as well as theatre, cabaret and films.
Since the Blues Club decided to organise its concerts there, it has become the Mecca for blues in Luxembourg. The concerts of the Blues Club Lëtzebuerg take place here and the hall and can hold 250 people.
The Luxembourg National Theatre promotes theatre and literature in Luxembourgish, German and French. It also presents opera and contemporary music.
The auditorium at the Music Conservatory is a place not to be missed by music lovers, while the Museum of Instruments houses the piano on which Franz Liszt played for the last time in 1886.
Marnach-based cultural centre, offers a varied programme, including classical music, jazz, dance, theatre, cabaret and children’s entertainment.
Something we missed? Let us know at contenttoday@rtl.lu!
