June 01, 2016
Thom Carroll/PhillyVoice
Vibrant rowhomes with large porches are a common sight in West Philadelphia.
Philadelphia is full of experimental music, underground artists and basement shows. For many emerging artists and their fans, late-night gigs, dimly lit venues and crowded indoor spaces have become the norm. But is it necessary for the experience? West Philly Porchfest, a new live music event taking place June 4, says no.
“West Philly porches make great stages,” Liana Moskowitz, one of the event organizers, shared in a press release. "A lot of amazing music happens on porches, and in yards and parks around the neighborhood."
Playing live music outside is nothing new and porch sitting is an ordinary activity, but inviting the community to use their porches as a stage is something different. It creates a series of house shows that differ from the average DIY music show.
Philadelphia's first Porchfest owes its debut to Somerville, Massachusetts. One of the five West Philly organizers, Ross Hoffman, experienced the outdoor jam session there and knew he wanted to bring the event back to his hometown this summer.
Attendees to Porchfest will be able to walk through the neighborhood, moving from bluegrass to hip-hop to funk band sounds. While the exact lineup has not yet been announced, it can be expected that a variety of musical genres will be showcased.
The day starts at noon and the event organizers created simple maps to help visitors make their way to all the participating porches.
Performance times will be broken up by geographic location.
West Philly Porchfest/West Philly Porchfest
Porchfest registration is open until June 3. Either register as a host (a resident with a porch that needs a musician) or as a musician (someone in need of a porch).
Those going for the music need only head to West Philly on June 4 and follow the maps. Porchfest is free.
Saturday, June 4
Noon to 6 p.m. | Free
West Philadelphia
