SLO HomeStore: The Buyers' Resource

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder then beautiful music must be in the ear. We all have our personal likes and dislikes and if your likes include really fine acoustical music performed by very talented singer/songwriters from throughout the nation, then here’s an unusual venue that remains a secret even from most locals.

Música Del Río in the countryside of Atascadero is billed as a “house concert.” Until a few years ago I’d never heard of such a thing, but it is exactly what its name implies – a concert held in someone’s livingroom. Concerts are presently scheduled monthly September through May.

The Central Coast is perfectly situated to host talent that would normally be found in much larger venues for the simple reason that we’re located halfway between the Bay area and L.A. the typical scenario is that a performer finishes a gig in one market and is passing through on their way to a gig in the other market. It only makes sense that they would linger a while, put on one intimate performance then head on their way with extra cash in their pockets. It’s a sweet deal for them and a very sweet deal for us because we get to enjoy superb music locally and cheaply.

Each guest is asked to stick $15 into the pot and the performers receive 100% of the money generated. Additionally, most of the performers have CDs available for purchase.

On concert nights most of the furniture is removed from the large livingroom and folding chairs are arranged theatre-style. The venue accommodates approximately 50 guests. Doors open 45 minutes before the concert commences and most guests bring along some snacks, desserts, wine or beer to share in an informal potluck.

Though the music varies from individual artists to small bands and covers an array of genres, it is almost all unplugged (acoustical) except for the occasional keyboard which, obviously, has to be amplified in order to create any sound. I’ve attended many and have never had anything but a great musical experience and have never spoken with another attendee who expressed anything but the same reaction.

Attendance is by invitation only, but I can arrange to get you on their exclusive invitation list. Actually, you don’t really need me. Just go to the Música Del Río website and ask to be included.

Do you have a question about living here? Ask it here.