Music at Every Corner: Exploring Adelaide’s City of Music Laneways and Artworks

Photo by: ACOM

Adelaide’s UNESCO City of Music designation is both well-deserved and widely celebrated within and beyond Adelaide’s green parklands.

From its First Nations roots to diverse cultural influences from around the globe, its internationally celebrated festivals, state-of-the-art music education facilities, and an abundance of live music venues and talented artists.

This esteemed recognition is bolstered by many initiatives from the City of Adelaide, from free and accessible concerts and events, public music programs, grants, to innovative policy measures and public infrastructure.

Our streets are adorned with symbols of its dedication to our city’s music culture, most notably are the dedicated laneways and artworks that proudly pay tribute to musicians who have significantly contributed to our vibrant artistic community and who have shaped Adelaide’s unique cultural and musical identity.

The music laneways, purposefully designed by the City of Adelaide, invite locals and visitors alike to explore the stories of the artists and their connections to our city, while also serving as pathways to the many nearby live music venues; artists such as Sia, Cold Chisel, Paul Kelly, and No Fixed Address are honoured with laneways named in their recognition. The City of Adelaide has also released newly commissioned videos providing the stories behind the laneways and artworks.

Adelaide has also embraced the artistic expression of music through captivating music-themed murals and installations. These artworks now form part of the city’s cultural landscape, celebrating Adelaide’s exceptional musical heritage and the eclectic influences that shape its music scene.

In 2019, the City of Adelaide, in collaboration with Music SA, Music Development Office, and Adelaide UNESCO City of Music, commissioned its inaugural City of Music mural by local artist Dave Court. Spanning 1000 square meters, this mural portrays Adelaide’s musical story, showcasing the city’s immigrant influences, thriving live music culture, iconic album covers, pub and magazine posters, festival scenes, and the close-knit camaraderie among Adelaide artists.

The latest addition to the city’s visual urban landscape is the “The Violinist”, a striking and colourful nod to Adelaide’s classical music community. Created by South Australian artist Simeon Jones, the piece is located on Rosina Street near the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, South Australia’s premier professional orchestra, renowned for its performances of both classical and contemporary music. The artwork was made possible by a City of Adelaide Arts and Cultural grant and the generous support from ASO major sponsor, George Kambitsis.

ACOM commends the City of Adelaide’s commitment towards celebrating our music culture and prestigious UNESCO City of Music designation by embedding into the very fabric of the city.

To enjoy a virtual tour and find out more information about locating the laneways and artworks, along with specifics on each project, visit:
Adelaide City of Music Laneways | City of Adelaide

Learn more about our projects

Read more about some of the projects that have been created with UNESCO Creative Cities Network.