Although Ultra Music Festival has recently become the main attraction for music lovers in Miami, the Magic City has more to offer than just electronic music. From the Miami Symphony Orchestra to street performers in Little Havana, it is hard to avoid Miami’s unique international music scene.

Kids play a piano during an art fair in Miami.

Many music legends from different genres have strong ties to Miami and South Florida: Enrique Iglesias and his father Julio Iglesias, Pitbull, DJ Steve Aoki, Celia Cruz, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Jon Secada, the Bee Gees and Flo Rida. Several of these artists not only live in Miami but also record here in well-known studios like The Hit Factory.

A musician performs in a Miami club.

While the younger crowd tends to visit South Beach to watch DJs perform live, jazz and blues fans might find a quiet piano bar or attend Miami Jazz Fest instead. And if Latin music is what you’re looking for, Calle Ocho won’t disappoint.

In this section, we will review recorded music as well as local events at venues like the Fillmore Miami Beach, Churchill’s Pub, American Airlines Arena, UM’s own BankUnited Center, and others.

We hope you will enjoy our writing and explore Miami’s diverse music scene.

— Nicky Diaz
Spring 2013