Contemporary Music Center (CMC) in Haymarket opened the doors to their new performance space June 21., called @4410.
Their name comes from the their location, 4410 Costello Way.
Featured music artists included CMC students and teachers who were excited to play on the new stage.
“It’s awesome. It’s so much fun-just a really cool venue. Also, it's really well-decorated and put-together,” said Tristen Gulley-Davenport, a 15-year-old guitar player from Gainesville.
Many performers referred to the high sound quality of the venue. Bassist Emily Stedman, 14, said the sound rivaled professional music clubs, such as Two Old Hippies in Nashville where CMC students previously had the opportunity to perform.
“I loved (the acoustics) so much,” Stedman said.
Teens who did not perform were none-the-less excited to have a place to attend shows performed by their peers and other talented music artists.
“There’s no good appropriate teenage hangout spots, especially at night. (@4410) will give kids in the area something to do,” said Ava Marvi, a Wakefield School student.
Owner Menzie Pittman said providing a safe spot for teens is part of the reason he wanted to build @4410. For teenagers who want to perform, Pittman said, “They need to know they have the space, and they have the opportunity.”
Patriot art teacher, Julianne Giampapa, attended Friday to support many of her art students who helped paint murals on the wall of @4110, as well as the many Patriot musicians who had the opportunity to perform.
“The turnout is amazing, and it’s such a great venue to show off the talent of our young people,” said Giampapa. “I’m excited that it can include all of the performing arts. There are so many talented kids, and this is great exposure for them. I think this is what the heart of the area is going to be.”
Her art students were likewise impressed with the venue.
Justin Brown, 17, said, “It looks really awesome. It’s cool to see it how it turned out in the end.”
Manager Jerry Hammack was very pleased with opening night.
“I feel wonderful. We had a great turnout- a great mix of teachers, students and local talent. We had a father and son play together, and everyone’s happy,” Hammack said.
Pittman’s daughter, Summer, who performed on piano, sang and played guitar, was also happy to see their first concert go smoothly.
“I’m really excited. Everyone’s been working on it for a very long time, so I’m glad to see it’s coming together," Summer said.
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