After leaving the Chicago area to come to central Illinois for school, I thought the days of decent music were over. I believed that this town, which upon first arrival seems to be in the middle of nowhere, held nothing to offer in terms of musical talent. Boy, I could not have been more wrong. In the last few years I’ve had the opportunity to photograph and attend over 50 concerts on this campus and have seen some of the best shows of my life. Champaign-Urbana attracts music festivals and often large bands; the local music scene is incredible as well. Music lovers better be excited for this upcoming year because the acts coming through are going to be incredible.

Indie music

The University attracts a variety of music genres to the area. The Pygmalion Music Festival, a yearly festival since 2005, has brought bands such as Grizzly Bear, Best Coast, Explosions in the Sky, Iron & Wine and many others to the campus and surrounding area. This year Major Lazer and The Breeders will be among the headliners at the show. Held at various venues in downtown Champaign, campus and downtown Urbana, Pygmalion draws crowds from all over the Midwest and will be a highlight for any indie music lover. Even better news for indie lovers is that Neutral Milk Hotel will be coming to campus this year for its 2013 reunion tour. You cannot miss this show; it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to see a legendary band.

Country music

Indie music not your thing? For those of you who love country music, the State Farm Center will be your home. In recent years, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Dierks Bentley and Lady Antebellum have came to town for shows. Smaller acts also come through downtown Champaign and perform at local bars. Mike ‘N’ Molly’s and Cowboy Monkey host a variety of shows throughout the school year and are a really relaxed environment to sit back, relax and listen to music outside. Frats, during the early fall and late spring semesters when the weather is nice, often bring country cover bands to perform, so there is always an opportunity to hear some decent country music. 

Classical music

Oh, what’s that? You’re a classical fan? Well, you’re in luck! The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts brings in a variety of musical ensembles and University students get a discount on tickets. The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts also hosts more than just musical groups. Every year, different theatre and dance groups come in to perform. In December you’ll be able to find “The Nutcracker” and this past year “The Tempest” was performed as well. Be sure to check the schedule for Krannert because different musical, dance and theatre performances are held most nights every month.

The Canopy Club

The most popular venue in town, The Canopy Club, hosts different events almost every night. From Dubstep masquerades to world-renowned bands, The Canopy Club has a little bit of something for everyone. Be sure to attend The Piano Man at least once at The Canopy Club for a fun night. Remember your youth and listening to Aaron Carter? He’ll be at The Canopy Club in October. This past year, Owl City, Papa Roach, Hoodie Allen, Motion City Soundtrack, Umphrey’s McGee and EOTO were some of the bands to stop by The Canopy Club. Chances are you’ll be at The Canopy Club a couple of times this year alone.

Getting involved

Do you want to get involved with the local music scene? Star Course, a organization on campus run entirely by students, brings many different acts to campus yearly. Throughout its history, Star Course has had an impressive track record, bringing famous bands and individuals to campus: Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Santana, U2, The Ramones, The Police and a ton more. Most of the bands perform inside of Foellinger Auditorium, on the Quad. If you want to be part of an organization that helps shape the music scene of this campus, Star Course would be a great group to join.

Zach is a senior in LAS. He can be reached at [email protected].