The flagship program of Front Porch Music is a monthly open mic, now in its sixth year, which provides a regular platform for musicians of all skill levels to perform, connect, collaborate, and share their music with each other and the community. It is free to participate, with a suggested donation for those who can afford it. For two years, we have produced a highly affordable quarterly public performance series in partnership with the Town Hall Theatre in Lafayette (a letter of support is attached), showcasing the region’s amazing, non-professional musical talent nurtured through the Front Porch open mics, and giving musicians a chance to participate in a polished show on a big stage with great lighting, sound, videography, and sold-out seats. The Town Hall shows also feature a professional musical group to cap off the evening, further inspiring audiences and regional musicians. Our website and e-newsletter serve as a digital hub for the community, offering news, updates, and resources related to local music events, opportunities, and Front Porch Music initiatives.

This year, we transitioned to 501(c)(3) status and are developing a series of workshops with regional performers on songwriting, stage performance, playing in a group, and so forth. These will help musicians improve their craft and gain confidence. Additionally, we are developing a gift guitar program to ensure that music is accessible to everyone by providing guitars to individuals who might not otherwise have the opportunity to play. At present, we have six gifted guitars in-house ready for their new homes, with many more to come. Our goal for late ’24 and through ’25 is to expand our capabilities as a regional network for folk musicians and members of the community through this grant request.