The Mission.
The Firehouse is a creative learning space in the Forest Park – South Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham, Alabama dedicated to the enrichment of the city's musical community. We offer a variety of music education programs with scholarship opportunities for the musically-underserved students in the community, as well as sustainable employment for Birmingham's working musicians.
Born from the DIY Scene
Starting in 2009, Eric earned a living teaching music lessons in the DIY music venue he helped found in Avondale. While most of his students were from the suburbs over the mountain, some neighborhood kids would wander in wanting to learn. Recognizing the existing demand and income disparities, Eric planned a nonprofit where anyone could learn regardless of background. He was thrilled by the community's support in making it a reality.
Why We Exist
Every child deserves the chance to become a part of the music community. Studies show that lack of music education contributes to poor academic outcomes and gaps in social-emotional learning. We believe music creates positive outcomes for young people — and we exist to remove the barriers that keep kids out.
Your support ensures we can provide accessible, relatable music education programming to any child in our community who wants to make music a part of their learning.
Our History, In Their Words
Annual Report & 990
We believe in being open about how Firehouse runs and how donor dollars get put to work.
Firehouse CAC is a Candid Gold Seal recipient — meaning our financial and organizational data is fully verified and publicly available. View our Candid profile →
Our Location
412 41st St S
Birmingham, AL 35222
Want to visit? Reach out to Janet Simpson412 41st St S
Birmingham, AL 35222
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Candid Profile