The Blind Pig

Though we love to cover the best in world and pop culture and try to bring you a little sampling of design, technology, fashion, and more in our daily postings, it seemed negligent at best to forget everything Ann Arbor has to offer. 

If you want to hear live tunes, You’re in the right town.

You haven’t ‘seen’ Ann Arbor until you’ve been to: Ann Arbor’s most celebrated and absolute must-see concert venue, the Blind Pig, famed for hosting rock veterans like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana in years gone by. Nowadays you can still catch notable artists – both MC Chris and State Radio have upcoming concerts – but the Pig’s main draw is quality local music from all genres and “The Bang,” a monthly dance party.

 The locals love: The Ark, an intimate folk and acoustic hall in the heart of Ann Arbor run with the support of a fantastic volunteer staff. Ticket prices vary between $0-$100, but most events are around $20, and there are a few free shows each month. Check their calendar for more details.

 Hidden Gem: Don’t forget to visit Ann Arbor’s best kept musical secret aka The Yellow Barn. Hidden behind a couple buildings across from the YMCA near First and Huron, the building looks more like an old farmhouse than a music venue. Upon arrival, you’ll probably notice a bunch of scruffy twentysomethings hanging around on the porch about to enjoy some sort of DIY musical venture.  There’s usually something going on every weekend, and most shows suggest a wallet-happy $5 donation to keep the project alive.

University Bonus Points: Definitely the University Musical Society.  Performances are hosted in a variety of locations, notably the glorious Hill Auditorium.  You can get a variety of discounts and special offers with your student ID as well.  Their schedule is online now.

The Ann Arbor Guide is meant to showcase not only the best our home-base has to offer but also to encourage you, our awesome readers, to post your own tips in the comments section.  Today’s edition is brought to you by Rhiannon, one of our established bloggers.  For more information on blogging for SHEI, contact B.C.Bodnar: bcbodnar[@]umich.edu.