Chattanooga Musicians Bring Joy to the Riverfront

News Summary

Every other week, a lively group of musicians, singers, and songwriters meets under the Market Street Bridge in Chattanooga. Known as the Chattanooga Musicians, they invite all non-professional musicians to join and play acoustically, featuring classics from renowned artists like The Beatles and Elvis Presley. Led by Brian Kelly, the inclusive community fosters personal growth and relaxation through music, creating a non-critical space where everyone can enjoy playing together.

Chattanooga Musicians Bring Joy to the Riverfront

In the heart of Chattanooga, a vibrant community of musicians, singers, and songwriters gathers every other week under the iconic Market Street Bridge. This lively meetup is a haven for non-professional musicians looking to share their passion for music in a laid-back, welcoming environment. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting with a new instrument, everyone is invited to join the fun!

A Musical Family Under the Bridge

The group, known as Chattanooga Musicians, Singers and Songwriters, has quickly become a cherished part of the local music scene. They play mainly acoustic instruments to keep the sound levels friendly for the neighborhood, which is perfect for those who want to enjoy the music without disturbing the peace. And what do they play? Think classics from legendary artists like The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. You can almost hear the sounds of the past echoing across the Tennessee River as these timeless tunes fill the air.

Setting the Stage for Musicians

At the helm of this harmonious gathering is Brian Kelly, the group’s enthusiastic founder. With a rich background in music that began with piano lessons and evolved through the saxophone before teaching himself to play the guitar, Kelly knows a thing or two about creating a musical space that’s both accessible and enjoyable. His experience in establishing a similar meetup in New York City before moving to Chattanooga in 2020 adds to his credibility, although the pandemic delayed the launch of this joyous group by a couple of years.

Each meetup is skillfully curated by Kelly, who provides a list of easy-to-play songs that everyone can join in on, fostering a sense of community and shared joy. It doesn’t matter if you’re just beginning to learn your first chords or if you’ve been playing for years; all are welcome as long as they bring a positive attitude. The focus here is less on perfection and more on the fun that comes from making music together.

A Focus on Fun and Growth

Another member of this welcoming crew, Mark Maharg, brings his own flair to the gathering. He joined the group in the summer of 2024 after previously leading a similar meetup in Atlanta. Maharg, who also has a foundation in piano before switching to the guitar, values the enthusiasm and teamwork at play in the group. He believes this collaborative experience not only promotes personal growth but also helps members improve their musical skills in a friendly setting.

For Maharg, who grew up in a household filled with classically trained musicians, this meetup is more about hobby and less about making music a profession. He finds the experience of playing music with others to be deeply relaxing and therapeutic. This kind of collegial atmosphere allows everyone to explore their musical talents without the usual pressures often found in more formal settings.

A Community of Music Lovers

The Chattanooga Musicians’ meetup encourages a non-critical and enthusiastic environment, creating the perfect backdrop for music lovers to thrive. With friendly faces and a supportive community, it’s easy to see why this group has attracted so many enthusiastic participants. So, if you’re itching to strum your guitar, sing your heart out, or just enjoy watching others play, come join the fun under the Market Street Bridge.

Connecting with the Chattanooga Musicians, Singers, and Songwriters is just a click away. Whether online at mss.band or through Facebook, you can easily reach out and get involved. Bring your instrument, bring your voice, and come experience the magic of music right in the heart of Chattanooga!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Celebrating Black Musical Heritage in Chattanooga
Commemorating Homer Rodeheaver: A Century in Music
Hixson School Community Mourns Loss of Music Teacher
Dalton Tribute Band Revives Black Crowes’ Classics
Elton John and Paul McCartney Oppose UK Copyright Reforms
Eaton Fire Investigation Links Electrical Failures to Tragedy
Road Closures in Chattanooga Due to Water Main Breaks
Chattanooga Musicians Invited to Join Tiny Desk Contest
Pam Tillis to Perform at Walker Theatre in Chattanooga
Chattanooga Launches Unique Book Bar and Library Initiative

Additional Resources

• Times Free Press: Chattanooga Area Musicians Gather Under the Bridge
• Chattanooga Pulse: Alex Volz & Joshua Cruce
• Times Free Press: Things to Do in the Chattanooga Area This Week
• Nooga Today: How to Get Involved in Theater in Chattanooga
• Chattanooga Pulse: The Woodshop Listening Room
• Wikipedia: Chattanooga
• Google Search: Chattanooga music
• Google Scholar: Chattanooga music
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
• Google News: Chattanooga events