Published by the Students of Johns Hopkins since 1896
May 1, 2025
May 1, 2025 | Published by the Students of Johns Hopkins since 1896

Howl at the Moon offers dueling pianists

By ALLI GRECO | April 4, 2013

What happens when one converted power plant, two pianos and a whole lot of singing and dancing are mixed together? Howl at the Moon, a dueling piano bar that has helped fuel the nightlife of Baltimore’s Power Plant Live complex since 2001.

Once the sun goes down, the taps start flowing and the fun goes way up in this hip area of the city.

Power Plant Live is, in fact, a converted power plant that currently houses some of the most fun and unique clubs, bars, and restaurants in Baltimore. Visitors are free to explore all of the various institutions, the most unique and energetic of which is Howl at the Moon. This is no ordinary bar. It is neither a dingy pub where the odor of stale beer permeates the air nor a claustrophobic, chaotic and crowded dance club with flashing lights.

Rather, Howl at the Moon provides a more refreshing experience. Its layout is big enough that the atmosphere is not stuffy, but still intimate enough to feel like a neighborhood hangout that attracts energetic young people.

And this place is certainly energetic. The spacious bar area in the back is a great space for chatting with friends over a good drink. There is also a stage in the middle of the establishment with two “dueling” pianists who take audience music requests and amazingly crank out classics from the 70s, 80s and 90s, one by one.

The pianists are not the only ones who are making the music. They want the bar experience to be an interactive one by calling on certain audience members to take the stage and sing along. Compared to its dance club neighbor, Mosaic, Howl at the Moon is a far better choice for people who want to have the opportunity to casually socialize with everyone at a bar and be part of a community where everyone is actively participating in the music.

Mosaic is more intended for those who want the stereotypical nightclub scene with flashing black lights, a glamorous bar, constant dance music operated by a DJ, and fewer interpersonal interactions. However, Howl at the Moon provides a warmer atmosphere that is somewhat off the beaten track when it comes to city nightlife.

Howl at the Moon also offers fantastic promotions and contests to keep its customers coming back for more. For instance, by filling out a form on the bar’s website, people can enter to win a party, which includes free cover charge and two free drinks. Additionally, there are private party packages available for purchase that provide seating, quick entry, cover charge and drinks. There is even the Rock Star Program, a membership of sorts which provides members with free admission and special drink promotions throughout the week.

Combined with its active social media presence on Facebook, Howl at the Moon’s marketing tactics prove that it is committed to attracting and forging good relationships with regulars who appreciate good drinks and even better music.

In Baltimore, Howl at the Moon is located at 22 Market Place. Visit http://howlatthemoon.com/ for more information and locations nationwide.


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