Live music is back, and as we safely reopen the city, the tunes will sound even sweeter.
Kings of Leon will perform at Merriweather Post Pavilion on Aug. 24
It would be an understatement to say we’re excited about concerts this summer, especially the summer bucket-list must that are outdoor concerts. With all COVID-19 capacity restrictions being lifted in DC on June 11, summer concert venues are free to operate under full capacity if they choose. So grab your sunglasses and a drink, and let’s hit the DC summer concert scene!
NSO at Wolf Trap: Fifty Years Together: a Celebration of Wolf Trap
In celebration of 50 years of Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, the National Symphony Orchestra will lead the performance of a program of renowned performers, including Grammy-winner Cynthia Erivo, internationally acclaimed soprano Christine Goerke and the pianist Joyce Yang. July 1, Wolf Trap, wolftrapd.org
Ellington Carthan
Ellington (Eli) Carthan is an up-and-coming jazz pianist and composer who loves to mix genres, ensuring that your night will be an exciting mix of music you’ve never experienced before. Carthan has performed at prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center, the Library of Congress, Smithsonian museums and other spots around town. July 14, Strathmore, strathmore.org
Luke Bryan: Proud to be Right Here Tour
For all of our country music fans out there, Luke Bryan is coming to town, and his catchy award-winning tunes will have you out of your seat and singing along all night. Grab a beer and be there live for some of Bryan’s most popular and catchy songs like “Country Girl (Shake It for Me)” and “Crash My Party.” July 17, Jiffy Lube Live, livenation.com
Dalí Quartet
If you’re looking for music that will get you to stand up and dance, look no further. The Dalí Quartet performs a vibrant mix of Latin American, classical and romantic music. The quartet is known for its diverse repertoire and lively performances, guaranteed to spice up your evening. July 22, Strathmore Patio Stage, strathmore.org
Jason Mraz: Look For The Good Live! Summer Tour
Jason Mraz encapsulates just about every genre in his music, making it the perfect blend for every member of the audience. Who doesn’t want the opportunity to sing along live to the Grammy-nominated, cult favorite “I’m Yours”? Aug. 15, The Anthem, theanthemdc.com
Bold as Brass: Kennedy Center Horn Trio & National Symphony Orchestra Trombone Quartet
The grandeur of the french horn and the personality of the trombone complement each other beautifully when this horn trio and trombone quartet play together. You’re missing out if you’ve never heard these brass instruments in action, and there’s no better opportunity than to listen to them surrounded by romantic, serene 18th-century English gardens. Aug. 19, The Secret Garden at the Rectory, Alexandria, kennedy-center.org
Train: Vertical Horizon Tour
Train is a classic favorite—and the group sounds even better live. Listen to Grammy-winning singles “Drops of Jupiter” and “Hey Soul Sister” live. If you haven’t seen Train perform, it’s definitely a musical trip; the upbeat pop-rock songs are what musical summers are all about. Aug. 19, Wolf Trap, wolftrap.org
Kings of Leon: When You See Yourself Tour
This Kings of Leon concert is your perfect opportunity to let loose for a night after being cooped up for a year. This Grammy-winning rock band is your ticket to the fun summer night you’ve been waiting for. Aug. 24, Merriweather Post Pavilion, merriweathermusic.com
Moon Taxi
There’s a reason why everyone thinks it’s cool to listen to indie-alternative music, and you can find your new favorite indie-alternative rock band in Moon Taxi. Moon taxi has performed at some of the biggest late-night shows such as Jimmy Kimmel and Seth Meyers as well as the biggest music festivals, playing at Coachella, Bonnaroo, and Summerfest. Sep. 14, 9:30 Club, 930.com
Celine Dion: Courage World Tour
Before the rest of Celine Cion’s Courage World Tour was postponed due to COVID, she performed in Brooklyn; Variety reviewed the show referring to Dion as, “joyously over-the-top and vocally flawless” and reported that many fans came dressed in sparkling gowns for the occasion. Well, why not? Bring on the sparkles to cap off summer, we say. Sep. 22, Capital One Arena, ticketmaster.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Kings of Leon
