Jazz Lab KC—a supportive, twice-monthly gathering for intermediate musicians where you can truly grow. Play alongside other passionate players, working through a focused set of 4–5 songs each session. You’ll receive expert guidance and personalized feedback from professional jazz educators sourced through the Mutual Musicians Foundation. This isn’t a high-pressure jam—it’s a true laboratory for jazz. Experiment, make mistakes without judgment, and build the bridge between solo practice and performing confidently with others. This program is made possible with support from the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund.

Next Gen Jazz Lab is a free summer music program for youth ages 14–18, hosted at the historic Mutual Musicians Foundation. Designed to cultivate real-world musicianship, students receive hands-on instruction in jazz, hip-hop, and soul from professional musicians and educators. Students explore a range of instruments—piano, drums, saxophone, vocals, and music production—within a supportive, collaborative environment. No prior experience is required—all skill levels are welcome to join in building confidence, creativity, and community. This program is made possible with support from the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant and the Kansas City Music Industry Commission.

The Bird’s Nest Industry Happy Hour is an exclusive monthly gathering for music, arts, culture, museum, and humanities professionals, held every third Thursday. Designed as a relaxed and inspiring space for authentic networking and creative connection, this invitation-only event offers live music, great conversation, and a chance to build community among industry peers. Guests must pre-register online to receive their “whispered phrase,” which grants complimentary access to one of the country’s most iconic cultural venues.

The Black Piano Sessions is an intimate live concert series held on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at the historic Mutual Musicians Foundation. Inspired by the spirit of NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts, this series showcases the brilliance and diversity of musicians across genres including jazz, gospel, classical, soul, and experimental music. Each session invites audiences into a close, soulful experience that highlights the power of the storytelling instrument and the depth of musical expression. The Black Piano Sessions is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and community.

The Rhythm Section Presents: The White Piano Podcast is an original audio series from the Mutual Musicians Foundation, launching from the very piano that has anchored countless jam sessions and conversations within its historic walls. Named after the Foundation’s iconic white piano, the podcast features candid, thought-provoking conversations with musicians, cultural leaders, and historians exploring the intersections of music, memory, and Black cultural identity. With each episode, listeners are invited into a space where storytelling, legacy, and sound converge. New episodes drop on the first and third Thursdays of each month. This program is made possible with support from the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund and the Kansas City Music Commission.

Rent My Instrument offers a convenient, rent‑to‑own model for musicians in Kansas City. With rentals starting at just $21/month and an option to build toward ownership over time, instruments range from beginner to professional level. All rentals include a quality instrument—guaranteed clean and ready to play—plus free UPS shipping, no-cost repairs, and the flexibility to upgrade or return at any time. Whether you’re a student, educator, or performer, Rent My Instrument equips you with everything you need—instrument, accessories, and even optional video lessons—to start playing music right away. Where music becomes easy, affordable, and for you.