Fine Tuned: Music Box Brings the Best of Live Music to San Diego

The Music Box has Struck a Chord With Locals in Little Italy

Written By: Jessica Young Music Box Live Music in San Diego

Little Italy’s Music Box, an upscale three-story live-music venue, is hitting all the right notes. Two years after a massive overhaul, remodel and redesign, the venue is finding success on new levels. The San Diego community, too, is singing Music Box’s praises. The concert and events establishment took over Anthology, which closed its doors in 2013, and reopened in 2015 as The Music Box with a new look, new layout and new mission.

Revamping the 13,000-square-foot space, which expands over three floors, wasn’t easy. While Anthology had been a full-service, sit down restaurant, Music Box was driven by a different vision. While food, drinks and table service are available, the music experience was on the forefront of everyone’s minds, as they created the venue’s design.

“Transforming the space into a higher-capacity concert venue took some creativity. For instance, the main bar had to be completely reconfigured, and the floor in front of the stage was raised to create a single-level main floor. We also removed the third-floor kitchen to make room for a VIP lounge and larger green room for the performers. Also, the original sound system was designed for jazz performances. We completely re-engineered and upgraded it to accommodate a wider variety of music styles. We are constantly being told by artists and patrons that our room’s acoustics and sound system are the best around,” said General Manager Joe Rinaldi, who has been with Music Box since its inception over two years ago.

The changes that were made to the space have helped make the concert experience unforgettable for attendees, according to Rinaldi. He said that once someone attends an event there, it’s not long before they’re finding a reason to come back. Some of the unique perks include Opera Boxes, which are among the first tickets to sell out for events. The boxes provide excellent views, comfort and VIP service during events. On the mezzanine level, they seat parties of up to six and position guests within an arm’s reach of the stage. For even larger parties, Music Box has a VIP room that boasts its own floor, as well as a bar and private service. In addition to providing lavish comfort, the venue also attracts impressive performers and high-end events.

“We’re excited about New Year’s Eve with Little Hurricane, two nights with Ozomatli, as well as OzoKids during the day. We also have a few unannounced shows that will create a frenzy when we do announce them,” Rinaldi said.

For those that also want to dine while they catch a show, Music Box has a variety of options. Whether guests are wanting to nosh on a full meal or just enjoy some shareable snacks, everyone will be able to find something to their liking. Drink specials are also available, including cocktails on a rotating draft.

“The menu expands weekly at this point, and it’s constantly being updated. You can have dinner, share plates, appetizers, or bar food. We have four high-quality craft cocktails on draft, so no waiting to have them made!” Rinaldi said.

Music Box isn’t only looking to pull in national acts and big headliners, though. The space is also available for rent by private parties. Groups can host events in the space and utilize all the amenities Music Box offers, including high-end sound systems and video equipment.

“We specialize in events where the group wants a band, DJ, or other types of entertainment, because it’s built into our infrastructure. Video presentations, film festivals, Comic-Con events, corporate buyouts, and sponsorship activations have all had highly successful events here,” Rinaldi said.

There are even more changes underway for Music Box, including raising the stage to increase visibility for all guests. The sound system is being upgraded and more infrastructure is being added to support live video feeds. The venue also plans to go live with online merchandise for the holidays.

“For those interested in becoming the first to know about new show announcements, as well as special pre-sale opportunities, it’s highly recommended to sign up online for our show updates,” Rinaldi said. “Our quickest sellout was less than 30 minutes after tickets going on sale, so it’s good to be in-the-know!”

Click here for Music Box’s complete list of upcoming shows! Music Box Live Music in San Diego

Music Box
1337 India St Music Box Live Music in San Diego
San Diego, CA 92101
619.795.1337 Music Box Live Music in San Diego

Music Box is Fine-Tuning the Concert Experience

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Jessica Young has lived in San Diego since 2003. She is a graduate of San Diego State University, where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Anthropology from San Diego State University. She also holds Master's Degree in Education from University of California, San Diego. Young works as a journalism teacher at Orange Glen High School in Escondido, Calif.

Young is the President of the San Diego Journalism Education Association and serves on the Board of Directors and Board of Trustees for the Quill and Scroll International Journalism Honor Society. She is an active member of the scholastic journalism community and teaches at workshops and conventions around the country. She was recognized as a "Rising Star" by the Journalism Education Association.

In addition to teaching, Young enjoys running with her adopted golden retriever, Maxwell. She has conquered the Original Marathon course in Athens, Greece as well as the Inca Trail in Peru. Young also dabbles in baking and photography. You can follow her adventures on instragram at: @racingcupakes.

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