Experience Leipzig Through the Music
Leipzig, Germany is a modern city with a busting cultural scene and a particular fondness for music. While Leipzig’s big sister Berlin often commands the spotlight of Germany’s contemporary music scene, Leipzig offers a different and unique beat. Leipzig has a music tradition that dates back for more than three centuries. Attractive now because of its affordability, Leipzig has become a mecca for artists and musicians.
The result is a vibrant, young and passionate contemporary music scene. If Berlin is renowned for its rhythmic techno pulsations on the dance floor, Leipzig is Germany’s top destination for independent, experimental acts. There is an almost overwhelming array of destinations to visit. Here is a small selection to get you started.
Moritzbastei, Leipzig center
Located in the heart of the city adjacent to the University, Mortizbastei has been Leipzig’s premier cultural center since 1982. Every day of the week, Mortizbastei offers interesting programs ranging from live classic (check out the ultra hip classic underground events) to hip hop. They also host literature readings and screenings of classic films. The contrast between its cutting edge programming and its historic location makes this a unique venue. It is just a few minutes ride on public transport from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof so is accessible to everyone.
Phono Centrum
If the act of flipping through bins of LP records or CDs is your idea of a perfect afternoon, Leipzig will spoil you. While there is no shortage of independent music shops in Leipzig, a few stand out. Located just south of the centre, Phono Centrum is well known as one of Leipzig’s better record stores for both vintage rarities and contemporary hits. The selection of records is vast. They range in genre from psychedelic funk to Norwegian death metal. If you find yourself overwhelmed the staff at Phono Centrum is extremely friendly. A true bargain can be found here and a little patience will reward you with something interesting for your collection.
Whispers Records
Located in the colourful neighbourhood of Connowitz is the hip Whispers Records shop. Whispers is a necessary visit for any collector of vinyl records where you can easily spend hours searching for hidden gems. The store is locally famous for its stock of classics often otherwise difficult to source. So if there is a particular record that you’ve desired for your collection but its acquisition has evaded you, try Whispers. Otherwise, the store has a friendly staff eager to make recommendations. Spend a couple hours here and you are guaranteed to leave with a new favorite (or two or three).
Werk II
Celebrating its 25th year, Werk II has been utilized as a “Factory of Culture” since 1992. It offers a wide range of programming including many classes one can take to better your skills in the fine arts. Werk II is also a fantastic performance venue and hosts events spanning an eclectic range. This includes modern dance, Jazz and dance parties with hits from the 1980s. A night out at Werk II is guaranteed to be exciting as it’s a true powerhouse in the Leipzig cultural scene.
Leipzig`s Conne Island
Conne Island is another celebrated Connowitz institution, particularly for Leipzig’s radical left. This is the best place to check out a punk show or catch a political discussion of various leftist themes. The crowd is decidedly young but nevertheless inviting. Admission is usually very cheap. If a radical leftist venue sounds overwhelming, you should at least explore the menu of its lovely café, with its various tasty vegan and vegetarian options. Spend some time unwinding and enjoying a cup of coffee with a slice of vegan cake. The perfect end to a busy day exploring Leipzig’s music scene.
Find our hotel in the center of Leipzig next to Central Station and discover the city.
