August 4, 2022

The "Listening to Live Music" Part of the Writing Life

As I've mentioned before, listening to live music is one way I feed my creative soul. 

Waiting for Blind Pilot to Enter the Stage at Pioneer Courthouse Square, July 2022

I've decided to make this pastime a bit easier on myself by creating a blog post with links to some of the bands and music venues I most enjoy.  If you are local to Portland and/or Sunriver/Bend, Oregon (or just passing through), maybe this resource will be helpful and inspiring to you, too. If so, I hope you will bookmark it and/or share it with a friend. 

Some of my favorite musical artists

Blind Pilot (They do an annual show at the Liberty Theater in Astoria. We've also heard the lead singer, Isreal Nebeker, solo.)

Fox and Bones (The artists who wrote and recorded this moving song, a tribute to the tremendous life of my late father-in-law, Henry Prochovnic)

Glen Phillips (I also enjoy the full band, Toad the Wet Sprocket)

Jonatha Brooke (Some day I hope to see her 4 Noses Show. Support her "Kitchen Covid Concerts," here .)

The Junebugs (The lead singer composed and recorded the anniversary song I wrote for my husband)

Maiah Wynne (The musical artist behind the beautiful companion song to Lucy's Blooms. Join her Patreon here) 

Paula Cole (I have admired and supported her work since the early 1990's. Listen to an interview here.)

Shawn Mullins (His songs are like stories. I especially love Twin Rocks, Oregon.)

William Topley (We've seen him countless times in Portland. I hope to see him play live at a pub in London some day). 


Favorite Outdoor Venues (Bend/Sunriver Area):

Bend Brewing (great nachos!)

Bend Cider Co. (in Tumalo)

(the) Bite (in Tumalo)

Bunk and Brew (Funky, youthful vibe. Event schedule on FB.)

Hayden Homes Amphitheatere (for bigger shows)

On Tap (They have an especially great beer and cider selection.)

River's Place (They typically have live music on Thursday and Sunday evenings.)

Silver Moon Brewing (They have the most excellent fire pits!)

Worthy (A gorgeous outdoor stage. Also has a "hopservatory" star gazing spot.)


Favorite Indoor Venues (Bend/Sunriver Area):

Old St. Francis School (Additional schedule info on the main McMenamins site)


Some places on our list to try: 

Blacksmith Public House (in Redmond)

Boneyard Beer (in Bend)

Cascade Lakes (Two locations in Bend)

Crosscut (in Bend)

Legend NW Cider Company (in LaPine)

The Village (in Sunriver) -- hosts summer music events

Wetlands Tap House (in LaPine)


Bands in Town - Bend

Bend's Source Weekly Calendar


Favorite Outdoor Venues (Portland Area):

Topaz Farm on Sauvie Island (Family friendly, very welcoming, and beautiful setting.)

Listening to The Portland Cello Project Playing Prince Music at Topaz Farm


Favorite Indoor Venues (Portland Area):

Al's Den

Aladdin Theatre

Alberta Rose Theatre

Alberta Street Pub

The Old Church

The Muddy Rudder Public House (A great neighborhood place, with excellent food and service, too!)

Polaris Hall


Some Places We'd Like to Try (Portland Area):

Hops on Tap


Bands in Town - Portland 


Bookmark this page and check back often; I'll keep this page updated as my list of favorites changes and grows! 

Last revised: March 9, 2024