About Pasadena
Pasadena, located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and close to the Pacific Ocean, offers breathtakingly gorgeous views. A favorite destination for tourists, Pasadena has something for everyone: From its grand outdoor parks to its captivating array of architectural styles, from Mediterranean Revival to Art Deco, the city is full of culture.
Historically, Pasadena has been a center for culture and entertainment; this is evident in its vibrant music scene. From the early days when the Tongva people performed traditional songs along the banks of Arroyo Seco during their sacred ceremonies to jazz clubs popping up throughout Old Town during Prohibition, music has been a staple of Pasadena ever since. And it continues today!
Though many may not think of Pasadena as a hub of musical activity, it always comes with creativity and variety when organizing concerts! From outdoor stages to classic theaters to ornate temples, whatever your show needs, you can find them here in “Crown City” Pasadena!
Concert Options in Pasadena
- Sound Engineer
You can deliver a high-quality audio experience with a sound engineer on board. They can set up the necessary equipment, including amplifiers, microphones, and speakers. Plus, they have the expertise to adjust levels and keep things sounding just right.
- Lighting Technician
Hire a lighting technician to ensure your concert looks as good as it sounds. Not only will they set up the fixtures needed for your show, but they create spectacular visual effects with various colors and patterns. Lighting brings live performances to life.
- Promoter/Marketer
Work with a dedicated promoter or marketer to get your concert noticed among potential guests in Pasadena. They will use various strategies, such as social media outreach or print ads, depending on what works best for your particular audience, to maximize ticket sales and raise awareness of your upcoming event.
- Video Production Company
Engaging a video production company can help improve the visibility of the concert online through social media channels and its overall success by capturing high-quality footage. The resulting material provides content for promotional materials or website/ social media content.
- Security Team
It is crucial to have security staff onsite in case anything goes wrong or someone needs help during the show. Security personnel also help keep the venue safe by ensuring everyone adheres to safety regulations, such as no smoking or drinking alcohol at some venues.
Concert Vendors in Pasadena
- Empire Lakes Productions
Empire Lakes Productions (ELP) is a professional event production and equipment rental company based in Southern California. Since its launch in 2020, ELP has worked with over 150 clients and produced over 250 events, ranging from corporate functions to comedy shows and concerts. Led by co-founder and managing director Arsen Tujian, a versatile music composer who has composed for several TV series, independent films, and podcasts, ELP handles everything from initial idea conception to day-of-event installations.
- LK Studio
LK Studio is a trusted provider of photography and videography services with expertise in performing art, corporate video, and event photo and videography. Founded in 2013 by creative photographer and videographer Luke Kwo, the studio has grown to include a network of talented photographers, videographers, IT specialists, and sales professionals who offer comprehensive media service solutions for all occasions. LK Studio has been featured in prestigious publications such as Dance Magazine and Pointe Magazine, boasting a high-quality streaming media production service trusted by many leading companies across the United States.
- Team Patrol
Team Patrol is a leading security guard company in Southern California, established in 2013. As one of the most experienced and reliable providers, Team Patrol offers armed and unarmed security guards for retail businesses, commercial buildings, residential areas, and events. Their security guards serve as an effective deterrent to crime when providing 24/7 guard service or limited coverage for short-term needs. All guards are highly trained professionals who are fully licensed, insured, and bonded.
Pros and Cons of Concert Venues in Pasadena
Organizing a concert in Pasadena can be a great way to bring an entertaining and unique experience to local music fans. Here is a look at the pros and cons of organizing a concert in Pasadena.
Advantages
- Located near downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena provides a convenient location for people all over Southern California to attend a concert.
- With its diverse culture, Pasadena offers plenty of entertainment options for different types of music fans. It ensures everyone has something to enjoy, from rockers to hip-hop enthusiasts.
- Compared to other larger cities like LA or San Francisco, organizing a concert in Pasadena can have relatively low overhead costs related to renting out venues and hiring staff.
Disadvantages
- As an already highly populated city, Pasadena has limited availability when searching for suitable venues for hosting concerts on specific dates.
- Concerts may need to abide by specific local regulations, which could limit the type of music or the length of the show.
- With such large crowds expected at any given time, considering the popularity of concerts in this area, crowd control issues are always likely to arise if not adequately monitored by security personnel.
Tips on How to Organize Concerts in Pasadena
Organizing a concert in Pasadena can be a challenging but rewarding task. With careful planning and some advice, you can plan a successful show. To get you started on this endeavor, here are some simple tips to help make your concert a success:
- Secure Enough Space: Concerts require adequate space to accommodate the sound equipment, seating, and stage area. Organizers must secure enough space, such as a music hall, auditorium, or outdoor venue to accommodate all guests comfortably.
- Secure Permits & Licenses: Before hosting any public performance in Pasadena, you must obtain all necessary permits from local government offices such as the Department of Cultural Affairs or the Fire Department before the event, with no exceptions! In addition, if alcohol is on the menu, purchase an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license from the ABC department before selling or serving alcohol at any venue location within Pasadena city limits.
- Establish Clear Guidelines: Establish parking guidelines, event start times, and other pertinent information so everyone knows what to expect. It will ensure attendees are comfortable with the arrangements when they arrive at the event and enjoy it more fully without confusion or delays.
- Promote the Concert: Use local media outlets, social media platforms, or even flyers throughout Pasadena to promote your showcase and build excitement! Creating an online presence beforehand could help draw crowds while generating buzz on social media sites to reach out to potential attendees from afar.
- Sound Check / Rehearse: Do a sound check to know the speakers are working and set the equipment up before guests arrive! Rehearse with performers beforehand so they can feel more prepared when they take center stage during their performance at your event!
Famous Locations in Pasadena
- Pasadena Robinson Memorial
Pasadena Robinson Memorial is a tribute to two accomplished residents, baseball legend Jackie Robinson and his older brother Mack, who made sports history in the 1936 Olympic Games. Both brothers faced adversity in their careers and personal lives, with Jackie breaking the color barrier and Mack returning home to little fanfare and facing racial discrimination. The memorial features a bronze statue of Jackie looking towards his destiny in Brooklyn and another of Mack facing City Hall, reflecting his complicated relationship with his hometown.
- Colorado Street Bridge
The Colorado Street Bridge is a century-old Beaux Arts masterpiece that spans 1,500 feet above the Arroyo Seco, offering views from its walkways. At its completion of the bridge in 1913, it held the record of the tallest concrete bridge and used to be part of Route 66. In recent years, the bridge gained popularity for its appearance in the hit movie La La Land. Mia and Sebastian had a romantic sunset date as they walked across the bridge, which won the hearts of film enthusiasts. The soaring arches are a testament to the ingenuity of its designers and remain a draw for visitors to the area.
- Mount Wilson Observatory
Nestled atop the Angeles National Forest sits the Mount Wilson Observatory, established in 1904 and still in use. Considered the premier astronomical research facility in the early 20th century, the observatory boasts a museum and self-guided tours around the grounds. Free guided tours are also available on weekends from April to November. For a more exclusive experience, groups of up to 25 people can schedule a viewing session with the 1908 60-inch telescope, although it is closed in inclement weather.