Smaller venues vs bigger venues

The debate on whether it’s better to see a band in a smaller venue or a larger one has been debated for many years amongst music fans, but is there actually an answer?

Many punk and hardcore fans do believe that smaller venues are better. DIY punk shows have been around for years, with bands playing in places such as basements, houses and small pubs. With no security guards or barriers, fans are able to be up-close and personal with the band, creating a more unique experience. And of course, if the band becomes popular, then years down the line you’re able to brag about how you ‘saw them before they were cool’ (but don’t be surprised if people think you’re a stuck-up hipster – you’ve been warned).

One of the negatives about smaller venues is that often the sound quality isn’t perfect, especially in a DIY punk show. Bigger venues often have a much better sound and technicians, due to their bigger budget and higher-quality technology. However, many fans don’t think the sound quality is an issue, they believe it is more about the atmosphere. At smaller venues fans are able to get involved with the show by crowd-surfing, joining the band on stage and being closer to the band.

Bigger venues have a much bigger capacity, allowing more fans to attend. This means that it is more likely for people to be able to get tickets, whereas smaller shows sell out much quicker. There is also a higher level of security, meaning that if something bad happens then there is always a security guard or member of staff to help you. Bigger venues also allow for a much more exciting stage, often with props, fire and impressive lighting. The atmosphere of a show can change how much that you enjoy the concert, and bigger shows often have much more exciting stage antics.
  

Many bigger and more popular bands often feel grateful to their hometown, often where they play their first shows and first start to gain a fan base. Once they become more successful they are able to play shows all over the world, but the shows that often feel the most emotional are hometown shows. Seeing a talented and popular musician suddenly play a show in a 200-capacity venue, with no stage theatrics to hide behind, is often a wonderful experience. Musicians who can prove that they are still in the business for the love of music rather than just money are often the ones who put on the best performances.

Both smaller and bigger venues both have their own unique charm, but all in all concerts are about how well the band performs, not about how many people attend. Personal preference plays a key part in which type of venue you prefer, but keeping an open mind will allow you to enjoy concerts in many different locations.