The sounds of music from jazz and opera to classical abound in Raleigh with the North Carolina Symphony, the Opera Company of North Carolina, Raleigh Chamber Music Guild, and the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra. Venues include the North Carolina State University Arts Programs, the AJ Fletcher Opera Theater, the Alltel Pavilion at Walnut Creek, Meymandi Concert Hall for Pops Series, Waterfront Concert Series, and the Salvation Army Concert in the Park. Annual events include Soul Jam, and the Bluegrass Gospel Festival at the Lighthouse Convention Center.

Going out on the town? Try nightlife at Yancy's Jazz & Blues Café, Berkeley Café, Charlie Goodnight’s Entertainment Complex, the Brewery, the Rhinoceros Club, the Disco Rodeo, and the Rumrunners Dueling Piano & Grill.