Jazz, gospel, bluegrass — the Southeast pulses with musical history and warm hospitality.
The Southeast is home to some of the richest musical traditions in the country — from jazz to bluegrass, soul to symphony. Whether you’re taking a marching band, choir, orchestra, or jazz ensemble, these ten Southeastern U.S. cities offer memorable performance venues, cultural depth, and unforgettable experiences.
🎺 1. Nashville, TN – “Music City USA”
• Why it’s great: Home to the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and endless live venues.
• Performance opportunities: Ryman Auditorium tours, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum stage, Belmont University clinics, Opryland performances.
• Must-do: Studio B Tour, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum – Beatles, Hendrix, amazing!
🎷 2. New Orleans, LA – Birthplace of Jazz
• Why it’s great: Culture, history, and music on every corner.
• Performance opportunities: Jackson Square, riverboat cruises, community concerts.
• Must-do: Jazz Museum and Preservation Hall.
🏰 3. Orlando, FL – Theme Park Central
• Why it’s great: Disney’s Festival Disney, Universal STARS, and classic band trips.
• Performance opportunities: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld.
• Must-do: Backstage workshops at Disney and Sound Design and the Art of Foley at Universal.
🎻 4. Atlanta, GA – Urban culture and Southern roots
• Why it’s great: Hip hop history meets orchestral excellence.
• Performance opportunities: Georgia Aquarium, MLK Center, Six Flags.
• Must-do: Atlanta Symphony or Fox Theatre tour.
🎶 5. Charleston, SC – Southern charm & acoustics
• Why it’s great: Beautiful venues, rich history, and excellent acoustics.
• Performance opportunities: Historic churches, parks, plantations.
• Must-do: Dock Street Theatre or Spoleto Festival time visit.
🥁 6. Tampa Bay / St. Petersburg, FL
• Why it’s great: Artsy, beachy, and surprisingly musical.
• Performance opportunities: Busch Gardens, Salvador Dalí Museum, Ybor City.
• Must-do: Exchange concert with local schools or colleges.
🎼 7. Savannah, GA – Historic, walkable, inspiring
• Why it’s great: Cobblestone streets, stunning venues, and lots of soul.
• Performance opportunities: Forsyth Park, River Street, cathedrals.
• Must-do: Ghost tour + outdoor concert combo.
🎹 8. Memphis, TN – The Home of the Blues
• Why it’s great: Beale Street, Stax Museum, and Sun Studio.
• Performance opportunities: Graceland, civic plazas, Stax music academies.
• Must-do: Live blues show or guest artist clinic.
🎤 9. Asheville, NC – Mountains and music
• Why it’s great: Bluegrass, folk, and unique street performance culture.
• Performance opportunities: Biltmore Estate, Pack Square, local festivals.
• Must-do: Private workshop with local bluegrass ensemble.
🎷 10. Biloxi / Gulfport, MS – Underrated and coastal
• Why it’s great: Casinos, beaches, seafood, and laid-back venues.
• Performance opportunities: Lighthouse Park, small stages, community centers.
• Must-do: Joint performance with regional schools or churches.
🧳 Final Note
Whether you’re looking for world-class performance halls or street-level soul, the Southeast offers something for every school music group — with options that fit your budget, distance, and program goals.
Thinking about planning a cruise or destination trip for your music program? SchoolMusic.Travel can connect you with trusted travel planners who specialize in music group travel.
