The Front Porch

The Front Porch offers private lessons, group classes, and workshops. Its classes include Mini Maestros Toddlers, where caregivers and children learn through songs, rhythm, and movement; Mini Maestros Kids, which adds instrument introduction and exploration; Learn an Instrument, with ukulele, fiddle/violin, 3-string Loog guitar, or voice; Play with Friends, with beyond basics classes, band classes, songwriting, or recording; From Scratch Classes; Beyond Basics Classes; Learn to Jam Classes; Band Classes; and voice, songwriting, performance, and dance classes.

Programs

• Private Lessons — One-on-one help, in person or online.
• Group Classes — Group lessons for learning music together.
• Workshops — One-off workshops with guest musicians.
• Mini Maestros Toddlers — 18 months - 3 yrs · Caregivers and children learn through songs, rhythm, and movement.
• Mini Maestros Kids — 4 - 6 yrs · Builds upon toddler class skills with introduction and exploration of instruments.
• Learn an Instrument — 6 - 8 yrs · Choose between ukulele, fiddle/violin, 3-string Loog guitar, or voice classes.
• Play with Friends — 9+ yrs · More options including beyond basics classes, band classes, songwriting, or recording.
• From Scratch Classes — For rank beginners with zero experience; basic skills and playing with others.
• Beyond Basics Classes — For students who have already taken From Scratch or have equivalent skills.
• Learn to Jam Classes — Mixed instrument ensemble classes for learning to sit in on jam sessions and band classes.
• Band Classes — Band rehearsal-style classes working toward a band showcase.
• Voice, Songwriting, Performance, and Dance Classes — Group voice classes, songwriting classes, and classes exploring music through dance and movement.

At a glance

• Ages: 0–18 years old
• Current session: 14-Week Fall Group Class Session (Aug 31–Dec 12, 2026); 15-Week Winter Group Class Session (Jan 4–May 11, 2027)
• General schedule: More than 200 people come each week to take classes. Weekly jam programs are free and open to the public.
• Facility hours: Monday - Thursday: 10 am - 7 pm; Friday - Sunday: 5 pm - 10:30 pm (only when concerts are occurring)

About the provider

The Front Porch was founded in 2015. It is a nonprofit dedicated to connecting all of us through music, with a mission of making music inclusive, affordable, and accessible to all. Its Roots & Wings outreach program brings music education and enrichment into the city, and weekly jam programs are free and open to the public.

Offers scholarships. Classes are priced below the national average without compromising teacher pay. Group classes are available for kids and adults.

What families say

“I love the way you all approach music and learning. I’m so moved by every student (young and old) that I’ve seen perform with the Front Porch. I’ve never witnessed music being shared and taught in such a free, gentle, supportive, and fun way.” — Marcy, Front Porch Parent

“The Front Porch has filled an essential gap in C-ville for intimate and cozy music venues. It is hands down the best place to experience folk, bluegrass, jazz, and lots of other types of music.” — Cindy S

“My daughter loves your class! After the first class she said “Mom, I’ve met my people! I feel happier than I’ve felt in a really long time!” She practiced all week, thanked me every day for finding the class and wrote her song. The positive power of music!” — Brandon D.

Last updated October 27, 2026.