A New Visual Welcome to 317 Main
As you walk into 317 Main, there is a sense of coziness. Music fills the air, it smells slightly of espresso, and the front desk staff smile at you. As you continue beyond the front doors, your eyes are drawn to the wall on the right side. It welcomes you to 317 Main, and is filled with vibrant colors.
Each graphic shares something that the organization offers, from classes and lessons to community outreach, and music therapy. The goal of the wall, designed and installed by Chris Moore Designs (different from the Teaching Artist, Chris Moore!), is to visually represent what 317 Main is about.
When asked about the design process, Chris stated, “Doing a deep-dive on the organization and understanding how the community/donors/all the people involved are integral to everything that happens here was critical in developing a look/feel that would make sense and be appropriate for this space.”
Further down the wall, mounted on salvaged wood from the original barn attached to the historical 317 Main building, built in 1855, is a heartfelt thank you to donors to the “Raise the Barn” Capital Campaign. The plaque thanks the individuals, foundations, and corporate sponsors, who generously supported our campaign and beyond, raising over $4 million dollars to 317 Main’s campus by 10,000 square feet; more than doubling our space. The building project enabled the organization to expand the services that 317 Main offers to thousands of community members of all ages across southern Maine.
It includes Founders Hall, giving artists an updated space to perform, The Crewe Foundation recording studio, where people have the opportunity to experience recording in a professional setting, as well as Fox & the Fiddle Cafe (operated by Black Tie Catering) providing a casual gathering space for the local community.
Chair of the board, Shari Elder, stated "This vibrant new edition to the 317 Main lobby brings me so much joy! Everytime I enter the building it brings a smile to my face. It tells our story in a simple, but powerful way and reflects the many opportunities that make 317 Main a core part of community life. The donor wall element is a celebration of the dedication of the supporters who made this dream a reality, and a way to say thanks to those who had faith in the project and donated to the initial Raise the Barn Campaign.”
At the end of the day, this beautifully designed art piece is more than just a wall, the way that 317 Main is more than just music classes. Beyond that, it's a safe haven, it’s a place of community. Student and Board member, Ania Small stated “Let 317 Main, with its music and community be your resource. It certainly has been one for me.”
Next time you stop in, make sure to take in the vibrant colors, read the wall, take in our mission, and see where you can continue to build your community through music. Music has the power to change lives, and together, we are creating a place where that magic happens every day. Thank you for building a future where the arts continue to thrive and inspire.
Here’s the impact your support makes possible:
Record-breaking growth with 3,110 student registrations this year—our highest enrollment ever.
More than 1,000 Mainers engaged through our Community Outreach & Access programs—bringing music to libraries, recovery centers, and classrooms across the state.
Over $20,000 in financial aid awarded to ensure that cost is never a barrier to music education.
A powerhouse faculty of 40+ Teaching Artists shaping Maine’s cultural landscape—on our stages, in our classrooms, and beyond.
50+ performances and events since 2023, transforming our expanded campus into a hub of cultural celebration and connection.
As we look to the future, our Community Outreach & Access programs are poised to elevate our mission and deepen our impact—and they are entirely powered by your philanthropy. For all ages: from creatively aging adults to children and adults with varying abilities, these partnerships bring music to those who might not otherwise have access. Last year alone, we delivered 15 unique programs, including:
7 vibrant partnerships serving K–12 students, nurturing creativity and confidence in the next generation.
3 dynamic programs for adults 55+, fostering connection, joy, and lifelong learning at every stage of life.
5 inclusive initiatives for individuals with varying abilities, designed in collaboration with partners to ensure music is accessible and empowering to all.
