Front Porch Music Presents: A Showcase of Exceptional Local Acoustic Artists
Front Porch Music, a Lafayette-based nonprofit, returns to the Town Hall Theatre stage on Friday, July 10, 2026, with another installment of its popular quarterly acoustic music series, Front Porch Music Presents. This special evening showcases five outstanding local acts representing a rich blend of folk, Americana, singer-songwriter traditions, roots music, and original songs. The evening begins at 6:15 pm in the lobby with Hawaiian slack key guitarist Doug Wong, followed by the main stage performance at 7:00 pm. Performing acts include:
Mike Danese & Sarah Gronquist
Mike Danese and Sarah Gronquist bring together thoughtful songwriting, skilled musicianship, and a shared love of musical storytelling. Sarah is a highly sought-after vocalist and multi-instrumentalist who performs with numerous Bay Area groups, while Mike draws inspiration from folk traditions, modern ballads, and the human stories that connect us all.
Jaylen Block-Smith & Kevin Florian
Vocalist and songwriter Jaylen Block-Smith combines powerful vocals, original songwriting, and a wide-ranging musical background that spans alternative rock, hip-hop, and folk influences. Joining her is multi-instrumentalist Kevin Florian, whose versatility and dynamic musicianship add depth and energy to performances that are both engaging and deeply personal.
The Threetles
Featuring Sparky Grinstead, Carole Zingeser, and John Rafferty, The Threetles blend British Invasion favorites, jazz, country, folk, and original songs with warmth and humor. Their unique sound reflects decades of musical experience, combining strong vocals, inventive arrangements, harmonica, and a shared passion for creating memorable performances.
Kate Burkart & Andy Charmatz
Singer-songwriter Kate Burkart crafts reflective songs that balance honesty, imagination, and vivid storytelling. Joined by guitarist and vocalist Andy Charmatz, the duo performs a mix of original music and carefully chosen covers, creating an intimate acoustic sound that is both heartfelt and engaging.
Maggie Forti with Gerry Pagano & Jim Larson
Songwriter, vocalist, and recording artist Maggie Forti is known for her soulful voice, compelling original songs, and deep roots in the Bay Area music community. Joined by guitarist Gerry Pagano and harmonica player Jim Larson, this accomplished trio delivers rich harmonies, expressive musicianship, and an engaging blend of folk, Americana, blues, and roots music.
Lobby Performance: Doug Wong
Born and raised on Oahu, Doug Wong performs traditional Hawaiian slack key guitar, a fingerstyle art form known for its beautiful open tunings and lyrical melodies. His gentle, expressive playing captures the spirit of aloha and evokes the timeless beauty and culture of the Hawaiian Islands.
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Front Porch Music is a Lafayette-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting adult musicians and enriching the cultural fabric of the community through performance, education, and connection. Learn more at frontporchmusic.org.
Town Hall Theatre is a beloved Lamorinda cultural institution that has inspired audiences for more than 80 years through outstanding live performances and community engagement.
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CALENDAR INFORMATION
WHO: Town Hall Theatre Company & Front Porch Music
WHAT: Front Porch Music Presents
DATE: Friday, July 10, 2026
TIME: 6:15 pm lobby performance; 7:00 pm main show
WHERE: Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School Street, Lafayette, CA 94549
TICKETS: $20 advance purchase at townhalltheatre.com/front-porch
