How to See a Symphony Without Paying a Dime

By Maria Rodriguez

1. Millennium Stage – Kennedy Center

Started in the year 2000, the Millennium Stage offers free performances every night at 6pm, including Easter and Christmas.

Previous acts have included Bobby McFerrin and Grammy Award winning hip-hop group Arrested Development.

This fall the Millennium Stage presents artists as part of the Kennedy Center’s skateboarding and Jazz festival.

With events ranging from up-and-coming comedians and world class dancers to student choruses and opera singers, there is something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind stage.

Catch the special performance at 8pm on September 23rd in honor of the Pope’s visit. The NSO will perform with a famous mezzo-soprano and a 10-year-old jazz prodigy.

The performance is free, but tickets are required. Tickets will be distributed in the Hall of Nations starting at 6pm. For those who aren’t able to grab one of these coveted tickets, the performance will be broadcast on screens in the Grand Foyer.

Check out the full schedule for upcoming events online.

2. Garden Court – National Gallery of Art

If you perfer a turn of high culture,  check out the concerts put on by the National Gallery of Art.

The Garden Court, located on the upper floor, stays serene year round with its indoor greenery and fountains.

Chamber music is at the fore of the programmed events, with string groups and piano performers making regular appearances.

The National Gallery also has their well-loved series “Jazz in the Garden” on Friday nights in the Sculpture Garden through September 27th.

Be sure to grab your ID and sip sangria while grooving to sweet Jazz beats.