It’s a BIG Time for Maine Academy of Modern Music and the Future of Local Music

We'll talk to the MAMM director Thursday night on Spinout, hear about their brand new location, talk about the "Playing For Change" concert this weekend and we'll have one of the young bands play live! 

If you guys have followed me over the years, you know I've been a big supporter of the Maine Academy of Modern Music here in Portland. MAMM provides a chance for young kids to not only learn about music, but how to play music, write, record and perform music with each other in a creative and forward thinking environment.

As we all know the music scene in the Portland area is a big deal. It's a popular draw and a financial boost to this city on a daily basis. Our local music is great entertainment to many and it's a form of art that locals do very well. To keep our scene thriving and growing, we need younger people to be able to get involved and learn music and be open to it at an early age. Since we all know the disappointing state of music programs in schools nowadays (which budget is NO excuse for), you have to wonder where can kids develop their music love, skills and interests. Without an all ages venue in town for young bands to perform and watch concerts - our future music scene is way out of tune.

Luckily MAMM is one organization that has worked hard to find opportunities for kids. It's still a struggle overall and we still need an all ages venue (or a venue that can easily do all ages shows), but to help matters MAMM have made some important breakthroughs over the years. Recently, they've found a way to help kids at least learn and share music with others in a place all their own!

On Saturday September 19th, MAMM is excited to officially open their new location for students to play, write and experience music together. We still need venues to open their doors to younger crowds, but this helps the kids at least build their own music.

Here is the info on MAMM's open house including the ribbon cutting my Mayor Brennan! All are welcome to come out to celebrate or maybe see if MAMM is right for your young musician who looks to sing or bang on pots or whistle tunes!

Also this weekend join MAMM and a gang of terrific local musicians for the 2015 edition of the "Playing for Change Campaign". Featuring a concert & video premier. Here are those details!

For those who are unfamiliar or forget, here's a brief explanation of "Playing for Change" Movmement! 

..and here's a teaser clip for the new "Playing For Change" video for this year from Portland's music scene including MAMM and MYRO / Maine Youth Rock Orchestra! 

This was the huge "Playing for Change" video from a few years back!