FIREHOUSE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER
Where Birmingham's next generation gets loud.
Music Lessons, Studio Time, Rehearsal Space, & Live Shows - Inside a 19th-century firehouse.
"We have one purpose — to serve any kid who wants to learn rock and roll, regardless of their economic situation."
— Eric Wallace · Founder & Executive Director
The Firehouse Effect
See what students and families are saying about life at the Firehouse.
“Firehouse has shaped my life in a way that, like, nowhere else could.”
Firehouse has shaped my life in a way that, like, nowhere else could. I’m more confident because the people here are so friendly and inviting, and you never feel like you make any mistakes.
“Emmett truly came alive after discovering Firehouse. He has really leaned in to friendships and community.”
Before Firehouse, Emmett struggled to find his people. Now he shows up every week excited, connected to other kids who care about the same things he does. It’s changed the whole family.
“Lily looks forward to her lessons each week and feels like she can be her true self with her instructor.”
Finding a teacher Lily clicked with felt impossible before this. Now she practices without being asked and talks about music constantly. We couldn’t be more grateful for the environment they’ve built here.
“Firehouse gave my son an outlet. Music has become a true stress relief for him.”
He was struggling with anxiety and had no real place to put that energy. After six months at Firehouse, his whole demeanor shifted. Music gave him something that belongs entirely to him. That’s what this place does.
WHAT WE DO
Three ways to plug in.
Play
Private and group instruction in guitar, bass, drums, keys, and vocals. Beginner to advanced. Taught by working musicians.
Connect
Find your bandmates. Students here jam together, form bands, and actually play — not just practice alone.
Student Work →
Record
Fully equipped to teach the fundamentals of recording. and available to rent for your recording project.
Studio Info →
Meet The Person Behind The Firehouse
Eric Wallace
Founder & Executive Director
Eric knew at 13 that music was how he'd move through the world. He spent years doing it — touring, teaching, playing every stage in Birmingham — before buying a condemned 19th-century firehouse in Avondale and spending a decade turning it into something the neighborhood actually needed.
Firehouse CAC opened in 2020 not as a business but as a deliberate act. The building exists to put instruments in the hands of kids who'd otherwise never get near one.
Full-Time Team
The people who keep Firehouse running day to day. Reach any of them directly.
Coming Up
Don't Miss It
Summer Sessions
Songwriting Recording Camp
One week. Full band. Write an original song together, perform it on Friday. This is the one that changes kids. Spots go fast — don't wait.
June 14, 2026
KRU Music Mondays
hip-hop workshops
Free hip-hop workshops every Monday with Birmingham's own Shaheed and DJ Supreme. Learn the culture, the craft and find your voice while enjoying a slice from Post Office Pies.
Mondays during School Year 4:30-5:30p
Rock the Schoolhouse
Watch kids who started with zero experience play a full set for 150 people. Bring the whole family. You will not be ready for how good they are.
TBD
Program & Event Calendar
There's always something going on at the firehouse. Check out our full event calendar to see what's going on this week.
See you at the Firehouse!
View the Calendar→
Our Location
412 41st St S
Birmingham, AL 35222
Want to visit? Reach out to Janet Simpson412 41st St S
Birmingham, AL 35222
Stay on the Scene
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Candid Profile