1. Brian D. Chenowith on the Portland Music Scene
In the last decade or so, Portland, Oregon, has emerged as a hot spot in the American independent
music scene. Attracting both big-name bands and up-and-coming musicians, Portland has a venue and a
show for any music enthusiast. Here, Portland resident and attorney Brian D. Chenoweth shares his top
picks for listening to live music.
The Aladdin Theater, a former vaudeville hall and adult theater, hosts a wide variety of performers. The
620-seat theater is an ideal venue for hearing live music in an intimate setting. At the opposite end of
scale is the Rose Garden, Portland’s largest live music venue and home to the Portland Trailblazers. The
arena regularly offers big-name shows and productions.
A wide range of venues fall between these two; the Crystal Ballroom is a restored historic building that
is known for its famous “floating” dance floor. The Doug Fir Lounge is a local hotspot that features log-
cabin décor and a popular 21+ club where indie bands often perform. In the summer months, the
Oregon Zoo becomes an outdoor concert venue, providing family-friendly concerts and entertainment.
With such diverse offerings, Portland’s live music scene is sure to please anyone’s musical palette.