Live music in Shelton, CT

Bluegrass fills the Shore Line Trolley Museum as the space becomes a participatory jam. It is open to musicians of all experience levels, with plenty for listeners to enjoy amid historic trolley cars. The emphasis is on community music making and the roots of American bluegrass, more a relaxed gathering than a formal concert. Voluntary donations of any amount support the museum’s ongoing work in preservation and the arts.

Hosted by Digital Tracks Entertainment at The Cellar on Treadwell, Mixtape Match turns bingo into a music based game where the host plays songs and players mark the matching squares on their cards. Titles and artists are announced, so no music trivia knowledge is required. The event features three rounds, each built around a different theme such as 80s music, TV theme songs, classic rock, current hits, 90s alternative, one hit wonders, hair bands, or old school hip hop. Participation is flexible, with the option to play a single round or all three. Cards are $2 each or $10 for six, the prize pool grows with the number of players, and all entry fees are returned to the participants with no cut kept by the host or venue.

Karaoke night in The Cellar is hosted by Steve Savage and welcomes both seasoned performers and first timers. It is a weekly opportunity to step up to the mic. Jam City Pizza serves dinner and the bar offers drinks, so arriving early for food and beverages is an easy way to warm up before performing.

Musica Sacra brings the 2026 edition of its immersive SurRound series to the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, placing listeners within the Cathedral’s Gothic nave as singers move through the space. The performance unfolds beneath Gaia, a 23-foot illuminated globe by U.K. artist Luke Jerram that rotates and presents NASA imagery of Earth, creating an experience New York Classical Review has likened to being enveloped in the music. Kent Tritle conducts a program that spans centuries, pairing Renaissance masters Jean Mouton and Juan Pérez Bocanegra with contemporary voices including Meredith Monk, Robert Paterson, Einojuhani Rautavaara, Caroline Shaw, Frank Ticheli, Gregg Smith, and Whitten Thomas. Organized into three chapters titled Splendor and Interconnection, Lament and Fracture, and Reconciliation and Renewal, the music draws on texts from Rainer Maria Rilke and on traditional Quechuan and Navajo. Selections include Now I Walk in Beauty, Astronaut Anthem, Sancti Dei omnes from the Medici Codex of 1518, Infinite Oceans from The Essence of Gravity, Prière de la Baleine from Choral de Bêtes, Die Erste Elegie, Earth Song, and the sparrow, A Song on the End of the World from Eternal Reflections, Take Peace, and Hanacpachap Cussicuinin. Tickets are $75 or $125.

The Linda Lindas appear at Toad's Place. Through a partnership with PLUS1, $1 from each ticket supports organizations dedicated to equity, access, and dignity. Tickets will be offered through a public onsale, with additional presale options from Live Nation and Toad's Place.

IMSLP marks two decades of making sheet music freely available with its first in-person concert, a benefit gala supporting the newly launched Petrucci Music Foundation. The program features pianists Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung, violinist Daishin Kashimoto, Concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic, and the Balourdet Quartet in works by Mozart, Clara Schumann, Mendelssohn, Enescu, and Reicha. Several selections come from the foundation’s New Editions Project, offering new critical editions prepared from primary sources. Proceeds help advance the foundation’s mission to preserve and expand free access to the world’s musical heritage for musicians worldwide. Presented at Advent Lutheran Church.

The Midnight brings the Time Machines Tour to College Street Music Hall with Jessie Frye. Presented by Premier Concerts and Manic Presents, this all ages concert highlights the duo’s sweeping synth driven sound and the creative partnership of singer and lyricist Tyler Lyle and Danish multi-instrumentalist Tim McEwan. Their latest chapter centers on Syndicate, a fifth studio album that expands their cinematic palette with lush keyboards, bold melodies, and themes that face uncertainty with clear eyes. Early tracks such as Shadowverse, Digital Dreams, Chariot, and Love is an Ocean point toward a broader sound that balances nostalgia with forward momentum. Formed in 2012 after meeting in Los Angeles, the pair shifted from traditional pop and narrative folk toward music built on mood and imagery. The approach struck a chord, leading to three number one singles on Billboard’s electronic music chart, appearances at major festivals, sold out headline tours, and a 2024 co-headlining run with Chromeo. On stage, The Midnight translates its studio craft into a vivid performance that channels neon soaked atmosphere, heartfelt hooks, and a sense of urgency. This tour stop offers a snapshot of where the band has been and where it is headed, drawing on the world building of Syndicate and the enduring pull of synthwave.

At Miller Theatre at Columbia University, violinist Geneva Lewis, violist Brian Isaacs, and cellist Jay Campbell unite for Dmitry Sitkovetsky’s string trio arrangement of Bach’s Goldberg Variations. In a chamber scale that calls for virtuosity, the work’s structure emerges as a lively conversation among the three instruments, highlighting their interplay.

Pam from Wild Bloom hosts a lively Music Bingo night at Wood-n-Tap in Hamden. It is free to play, and instead of numbers you will fill your card as short song clips play. It is not a trivia test, since the song title and artist appear on the video display for helpful hints. The game features four rounds with a mix of patterns and categories, and each round’s winner chooses the category for the next one. Prizes are awarded in every round. Expect a relaxed evening of music and games with food, drinks, and plenty of chances to win.

Chris Marolda appears at Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery for an event that pairs music with wine.

Weather permitting, Blood Sweat and Gear's Friday Night Cruise offers giveaways, 50/50, trophies including a Best in Cruise award, music and more. Vehicle participation has a 2006 cutoff, with a designated section available for specialty vehicles.

Elmo and the Sesame Street crew step into the spotlight in a brand new Sesame Street Live production filled with singing, dancing, and playful audience moments. Families can share in familiar favorites like Sunny Days, Elmo’s Got the Moves, and Letter of the Day while little ones clap, groove, and learn alongside their grown ups. The experience focuses on togetherness and fun, creating memories that last beyond the final song. A $40 Photo Experience add on is available for ticket buyers and includes the chance to meet characters from Elmo’s Got the Moves.

RGB, an acoustic trio, returns to Center Street Brewing Company in Wallingford for a live performance featuring Rob, Chris D’Amato, and Tim Browne.

Returning to the stage, The Bogarts bring a celebratory vibe to Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp in Orange with a mix that spans eras and genres. Expect songs from artists like the Beatles, Bill Withers, the Commodores, Foo Fighters, and Incubus, along with plenty more favorites. There are no reservations, so plan to arrive early.

Enjoy an evening of original live music as local songwriters, composers, and members of the Song A Week community share their own compositions. Each set features music written and performed by the artists themselves, offering a varied showcase of fresh work. In line with Word Up Community Safety guidelines, attendees are encouraged to remain masked for the duration of the event.

A concert that explores how visual creativity shapes sound, featuring pieces that respond to artworks through melody, rhythm, and texture. The program highlights the dialogue between images and music, showing how color, form, and line can be translated into notes, harmonies, and motion.

The series’ official concert experience brings Outlander to life with a live orchestra performing Bear McCreary’s celebrated score, shaped by selections from showrunner Matthew B. Roberts, as scenes from all eight seasons glow on the screen. Journey from the standing stones of Craigh na Dun to the New World while Scotland’s Celtic traditions take center stage. The program salutes the story’s heritage, the enduring romance of Claire and Jamie, and the sweeping vistas that captured hearts. Echoes of the Highlands, which premiered in Scotland, the saga’s home, sets a reflective tone and hints that this journey is only beginning.

El Ten Eleven brings a dynamic, all-instrumental set that merges post-rock atmospheres with electronic textures for an immersive experience. Their inventive live performance showcases distinctive compositions and compelling energy, welcoming both long-time followers and those discovering their music for the first time.

This event centers on Ann Wilson, the unmistakable voice behind Heart. The cofounder and lead singer-songwriter of the pioneering rock band has been celebrated for decades as one of rock’s greatest vocalists, her powerful sound shaping modern music for more than fifty years. Her achievements include more than 35 million records sold, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Among the earliest women to lead a hard rock act in arena settings, she expanded what was possible for female artists while creating enduring anthems such as Barracuda, Magic Man, and Crazy on You. Presented as part of the Pepsi Rock Series, handcrafted by American Metal.

There’s a Yearnin’ brings together winds and voice for a program that highlights notated works by Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy, and Oliver Nelson. A centerpiece is a long unheard woodwind sextet by Dolphy, discovered in the Library of Congress by Jeff Lederer and brought to life and recorded for the first time with the cooperation of the Dolphy estate. The program also includes rarely performed Forms and Sounds quintets by Coleman, along with Lederer’s arrangements of Oliver Nelson compositions featuring original lyrics by vocalist Mary LaRose. Performing are Mary LaRose on voice and clarinet soloist Jeff Lederer with the Wildebeest Wind Quintet, featuring Michel Gentile on flute, Kathy Halvorson on oboe, Mike McGinnis on clarinet, Sara Schoenbeck on bassoon, and Aliyah Danielle on horn.

The Marching Eagles will perform at a US Bands competition, bringing their show to the field at Cheshire High School Marching Ram Band in Cheshire, CT. The exact performance time will be shared once it is confirmed.

United Palace hosts a milestone celebration for Tony Vega’s 50th anniversary. This anniversary event highlights five decades and offers a moment to recognize this significant milestone.

Columbus Day weekend features The Other Four at Left Field Sports Bar And Grill in Shelton, presenting a night that mixes their own set with a curated jam featuring invited musician friends. This is not an open mic or walk‑in session, as guest performers are arranged ahead of time. The Other Four is a New Haven based four piece rock band known for familiar rock tunes chosen to avoid the usual overplayed selections, blended with influences from blues, country, jazz, funk, and roots Americana. In recent years they have appeared along the Connecticut shoreline from Fairfield to Ivoryton, bringing a varied song list shaped by those styles.

Mr TRLP performs in the intimate piano room at Lava Sono, delivering favorites alongside his piano player. The music spans jazz, R&B, soul, Top 40, and more. Food and drink are available. Reservations are recommended for guests wishing to mark a special occasion, and all celebrations are welcome.

Preacher Dogs delivers a psychedelic rock experience rooted in love, peace, and upbeat energy. The show revisits favorites from the 60s and 70s, featuring music by The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Cream, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Joe Cocker, John Lennon, Steppenwolf, Cheap Trick, and more. It is a nostalgic journey through timeless songs, presented with high-energy performances and a feel-good vibe.

Robert Neary, known from Broadway, television, and film, presents a tribute to a renowned recording artist. This two hour show highlights 26 hit songs complemented by stories, multimedia moments, trivia, and touches of nostalgia. It concludes with a finale lasting 30 minutes delivered with Broadway level polish.

The Tull Project brings a high-energy Jethro Tull tribute to StageOne in Fairfield, CT, spotlighting the band’s hallmark mix of intricate rhythm and wide-ranging melody. Centered on virtuosic, flute-led playing, the set moves from quiet, folk-shaded moments to full-throttle electric drive. Spanning early blues-rock roots through progressive and folk-inspired eras, the program showcases the breadth of Tull’s most influential years with dynamic arrangements, close-knit ensemble chemistry, and a performance that is both punchy and richly detailed.

Molly Darcy's Danbury hosts GoodTime Charlies, a high energy classic rock cover band bringing hits from the 80s, 90s, and beyond to life with tight, crowd pleasing musicianship. The set spans iconic anthems and feel good favorites, packed with sing along staples that keep the room moving. Pair the performance with great food and cold drinks for a full night out.

Settle in for two uplifting sets of Beatles music that lift the spirit. All ages are welcome with a guardian. Table reservations are recommended, and the program celebrates the Beatles' enduring message of love.

Settle in for a hands-on candle making session where you craft your own custom 9 oz candle along with a wax melt. An instructor guides you through each step during a 90 minute experience. A live in-studio DJ sets the soundtrack and keeps the energy high, with chances for dancing and games that build a friendly community vibe. It is BYOB, so bring the drinks and food you prefer. The setting is made for great photos and suits birthdays, date nights, meetups, and more. Capacity is limited and spots tend to fill quickly.

This third annual fundraiser at Yellow King Brews in Wallingford supports Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven. It features live music from the John Spignesi Band, games, and a silent auction. The event is dog friendly and welcoming to families and friends. Ticket information will be announced, with more details to follow.

Part of Viva Valdez, a series celebrating the life and work of filmmaker Luis Valdez, this screening presents a Valdez film in DCP with a 108-minute runtime. The story follows rock and roll pioneer Ritchie Valens from farmworker beginnings to chart success, balancing family expectations, first love, and the pressures of instant fame while helping shape the sound of American popular music. Lou Diamond Philips leads the cast in his first starring role, joined by Esai Morales, Rosanna DeSoto, and Elizabeth Peña, with a soundtrack stacked with enduring favorites. Critic Kevin Maher has called it the definitive music biopic of the 1980s. Alexa De La Fuente and Zoe Guiney provide introductions. Co-presented with the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library. Admission is free and open to the public.

Adelphi Orchestra opens its 73rd season with American Voices at 250 at Broadway Presbyterian Church. Conductor Kyunghun Kim leads a program honoring America’s 250th Anniversary alongside Beethoven’s legacy. Guest soloist Sophia Werner performs Barber’s Violin Concerto. The program also includes Barber’s Adagio for Strings and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8. This concert is part of the orchestra’s season opener presented in both New Jersey and New York City.

Sean Altman and Jack Skuller present a warm homage to the top-selling duo in rock and roll history, blending humor, high energy, and tight harmonies. The performance traces Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel from their teenage beginnings through an early folk rise and a stretch of worldwide hits, then nods to standout moments from Paul Simon’s solo career. Expect favorite songs in an intimate tribute setting. Each ticket includes one beverage, alcoholic or non-alcoholic.