Band on the Porch? Artists Perform Original Music in Newport's Neighborhoods

NEWPORT, RI—Most of the Newport sagas about neighbors and live music follow a simple plot. The venue keeps ramping up the sound; the neighbors complain; the management makes empty promises; lawyers are hired, and so it goes. But what if a different story could be told, one that brings the neighborhoods and the artists together for a good time that comes at nobody's expense?

It's been happening on porches and so-called "semi-public spaces" around the City. A band comes by and sets up the drums and guitars. Neighbors spill out of their houses, and the show starts.

The Newport Art House has been dabbling in such a project, with support from the state Council on the Arts, the Newport Chamber of Commerce and private sponsors. So far, they've made eight high-quality videos, which the musicians can use to promote their bands. According to Tracy Jonsson, the project also connects businesses with new customers through sponsorships or hosting the performances in their venues. Plus, it fosters talent and helps "in creating a public perception of Newport that includes a vibrant contemporary arts culture."

And any trouble with the neighbors? No, Jonsson says. But the music isn't loud. Although it sounds hearty enough on the video, the wires and signals went into the deck for the video.

"The music sounds amplified but in actuality was not: the signals out all went into a recording mixer," Jonsson explained. "That's the hardest part for the participating artists: all they can hear is the singing and the sound coming from electric instruments amplified (a noise level lower than an acoustic instrument, as you would know if you've ever strummed an unplugged electric guitar)." Plus, they wanted the neighbors to enjoy the experience.

"We would notify neighbors by leaving letters in their mailboxes inviting them to participate in NewPorch," she said, "and because the decibel levels are so low we've had great attendance and feedback. Most neighbors are simply thrilled to know that their neighbors are young musicians and artists."

Also, the project managed to sidestep the bureaucracy.

"There was no permitting involved as they were recorded on resident porches (with the residents' permission and all neighbors notified and encouraged to ask questions, voice concerns, and attend the recording)," she said.