Dueling pianos are a unique performance where two pianists face off against one another in a fun and interesting way as they take requests from the audience. As the home of dueling pianos, the US naturally has plenty of them, and its pianos are arguably the very best in the world. While piano bars are popping up around the world, these are our favorites on American soil. If the lively dueling piano experience inspires you to play, you might consider looking into piano lessons near me.
Pat O’Brien’s: New Orleans, Louisiana
Pat O'Brien's is in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. This is one of the country's most iconic dueling piano bars and the one that is said to have started it all.
While the dueling piano format predates the founding of Pat O'Brien's in 1933, this venue definitely popularized the current format of dueling pianos.
It's famous for its Hurricane cocktails and has Southern charm in abundance. The pianos are set up in a room that will take you back in time with exposed brick, wooden beams, and vintage décor.
This is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the spirit of New Orleans and dueling pianos, in particular.
Why You Should Visit
Howl at the Moon: Multiple Locations
Howl at the Moon is a chain of bars offering the dueling piano experience you want.
There are locations in major cities like Orlando, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Boston, offering fun with neon lights, vibrant décor, and dance floors with everybody moving.
Howl at the Moon offers a party-like atmosphere with shows designed to get the audience singing, clapping, and even dancing on stage.
Check out this Howl at the Moon in Houston performance of "Hey Mickey".
Their pianists are exquisite musicians and incredible entertainers in every sense of the word. They combine comedy, crowd engagement, and piano playing to create a lively environment that keeps guests coming back.
They also have a traveling division (similar to other popular piano bars), so you can hire dueling pianos for events.
Why You Should Visit
The Big Bang: Nashville, Tennessee
In a city known for its music, it's hardly surprising that Nashville, Tennessee, is home to one of the country's best dueling piano bars.
The Big Bang is nestled in the heart of the Broadway district, but it's known as Music City's Best Kept Secret (sorry!).
This venue thrives on audience participation. Guests are encouraged to write down their requests, incentivize the pianists with cash, and pass them up to the stage.
This venue blends musical intimacy with unmatched energy. It has an intimate setting with exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and the classic vibes of a real music bar.
Why You Should Visit
Brandy's Piano Bar: New York City, New York
This bar in Manhattan's Upper East Side has delighted guests with live music since the 1970s.
Brandy's Piano Bar is one of the smaller and more intimate venues for dueling pianos, which allows the audience to be mere feet away from the musicians.
This venue's modest stage feels like a throwback to New York City's classic nightlife. Talented vocalists and pianos work the crowd as they switch from classic rock to Broadway hits and contemporary pop songs. Whatever the audience wants including the most popular dueling piano songs.
The size of the venue is both a blessing and a curse. You'll enjoy an excellent dueling piano show, provided you can get in. Brandy's will fill up quickly; the regulars always arrive early to get to the best spots.
Why You Should Visit
Sing Sing Dueling Pianos: Denver, Colorado
This bar in Denver offers high energy at high altitudes. Sing Sing Dueling Pianos has earned a reputation as the go-to spot for live music and a good night out.
With its spacious stage, vibrant lighting, and two grand pianos ready for a musical showdown, the performances keep the crowds coming back.
This venue has a welcoming vibe and is open to various celebrations. The bar features a complete selection of cocktails and will provide a social atmosphere.
Why You Should Visit
Keys on Main – Salt Lake City, Utah
Keys on Main in Salt Lake City is famous for its energetic dueling piano shows. This venue has live music, audience interaction, and a lively atmosphere on every visit.
This is another spacious venue that's incredibly welcoming and is suitable for both spontaneous and planned nights out. Talented musicians battle it out, playing the hits and whatever their audience asks for.
Keys on Main also specializes in private events, frequently hosting corporate parties, birthdays, and evening wedding receptions.
Full-bar service and plenty of seating also make it great for large groups!
Why You Should Visit
Shout! House – San Diego, California
Shout! House is in the heart of San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter. It's become one of the premier destinations for dueling piano entertainment on the West Coast. It has a reputation for providing a raucous atmosphere.
Locals and tourists alike are drawn in and get to sing, dance, and shout along to their favorite songs.
This venue includes a large central stage, tiered seating, and a full-service bar.
Every seat has a clear view of the action, so even latecomers can enjoy a good show.
Why You Should Visit
Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar: Austin, Texas
Deep in the heart of Texas, Pete's Dueling Piano Bar is a staple of Austin's music and nightlife scene.
It's located on 6th Street, where its high-energy performances and interactive atmosphere continue to draw in fans.
From classic rock and country anthems to pop hits and sing-along favorites, the pianists at Pete's can handle almost anything thrown at them.
This venue offers an unapologetically wild atmosphere. It's not just a piano concert; it's an interactive party where everyone has a good time.
Why You Should Visit
This place is a must if you're in Austin. Came here for my birthday and had the time of my life, I was even on stage singing a few times!
J Figueroa - Google Reviews
Ernie Biggs: Springfield, Missouri
Ernie Biggs is a popular dueling piano bar with a classic American vibe, vintage décor, and a stage setup that invites audience participation. The musicians here know how to work a crowd, being both entertaining and incredible musicians.
This location is popular with college students, locals, and tourists. This is the venue if you want an evening of music, drinks, and dancing.
Why You Should Visit
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