Marshalltown’s Music Scene: A Vibrant Mix of Talent and Venues
Music means a lot to Marshalltown. Some musicians grew up here, moved away and returned, while others relocated. Together, they’re creating an evolving music scene nurtured by eclectic venues eager to showcase talent.
In This Article
Tight-Knit Community
Austin Chadderdon’s music career in Marshalltown didn’t get off to a promising start.
“Mom signed me up for piano lessons in elementary school, but I didn’t have the patience for reading the music. I was more interested in ad-libbing,” he says.
But middle school band sparked a curiosity in the guitar, and years later, Chadderdon moved away for college and joined a band.
“Eventually, I came back to Marshalltown, but I had to put music aside for a while,” he says.
Now in his 30s, he runs his own photography/videography business while singing and playing guitar around town, usually as a solo act.
“I really enjoy the simplicity. It’s more personal than being in a band,” he says.
As far as Marshalltown’s music scene, Chadderdon describes it as grassroots.
“It’s a tight-knit community that’s not really competitive,” he says. “People enjoy playing music together, and we’re constantly feeding off each other.”
Practicing a Passion
Native Iowan Robert Maharry moved to Marshalltown three years ago. He’s the managing editor of the local paper, and while journalism is one of his passions, music is another. His playing days started as a kid, continued through high school and college, and continues today.
“I play the guitar and harmonica for my main band, Catfish Murphy,” he says. “It’s classic rock influence and definitely some country.”
Maharry says Marshalltown’s music scene is strong for several reasons.
“There’s always someone playing at the bars,” he says.
And there are many different venues, too, including a wine bar, bowling alley and record store. There’s also a critical mass of local talent.
Modern Life Is War, a nationally known hardcore punk band, hails from Marshalltown, and its members still live here. Mike Bernard & the Midwest Made is headlined by a firefighter who moved to town.
“Everybody has their own reasons for how they ended up here,” Maharry says. “It’s great to be in a place with others who want to play, promote music and share ideas,” he says.
Diverse musical genres thrive in Marshalltown, and Maharry says that’s because the town has made the arts and music a priority.
“I feel like they’ve done some things to foster the scene, like open mic nights. There are more opportunities to see live music,” he says. “And with some of the redevelopment downtown, I’m hoping to see more.”
Embracing Different Styles
One of the most prominent voices in Marshalltown’s music scene is its quietest — Luisa Ortega.
“I don’t play any instruments, nor can I sing. I’m so soft-spoken that people at the drive-thru have a hard time hearing me,” Ortega says.
She’s lived in Marshalltown for more than 30 years. Still, live music is so important to her that in 2005, she opened Midnight Ballroom, taking an empty space and turning it into a venue for 600 guests. In 2022, Ortega bought a second, larger location, Midnight Garden. And while both venues host weddings and parties, they also feature local and touring bands.
“We’ve had rock, mosh pits, rap, country, DJs and a variety of regional Mexican musicians,” she says.
In fact, Ortega’s annual Easter weekend event became so popular she had to move it to the Central Iowa Fairgrounds. Sábado de Gloria is a major production with bands and a rodeo.
“Marshalltown has had live performers for many years, but lately, it has really started to gain momentum,” Ortega says. “I believe it will continue to flourish and expand in a variety of genres.”
Where They Play
Looking for live music in Marshalltown? Hit up these four spots to take in some tunes.
1. Gutter Point
While a bowling alley might not be your first stop when looking for live music, Wayward Social in Marshalltown will soon be your new favorite hangout. It hosts a variety of skilled musicians, including local talents like Austin Chadderdon and Robert Maharry, who is also managing editor of the Times-Republican newspaper.
Round out your listening experience by ordering a cold beer and delicious grub, like a juicy burger or breaded tenderloin.
2. Dave & Sally’s
Live bands, DJs, karaoke and open mic nights can be found at Dave & Sally’s, a bar and grill found on East Main Street. This is the perfect place to meet friends, grab a bite and listen to some pretty great music.
3. Tannin
Friday and Saturday are generally music nights at Tannin, a relaxing wine bar.
“There’s a really robust collection of people who play there on a consistent basis,” Maharry says
4. Old Timer Tavern
Old Timer Tavern, a long-running dive bar, is one of Chadderdon’s favorite places to play.
“I like it because it’s a little more rowdy. People are happy to have you,” he says.
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