ROANOKE, Va. – A star could be born in Star City thanks to a new recording studio in town.
If you want to sing along or create your own podcast, settle into the new free studio at Fishburn Mansion.
On the third floor, Play Roanoke workers and volunteers have transformed a storage space into a dream location for artists. With soundproof foam panels lining the walls and a disco ball setting the mood, this could be the start of a future celebrity-in-the-making career.
“If they could just shout out to Play Roanoke when they go platinum, let them know where they started,” said Stephanie Long, Roanoke Parks and Recreation Marketing Coordinator. “That would be really cool.”
Normally, the Parks and Recreation Department encourages people to decompress outdoors. But when it’s a rainy day, it might be best to grab some headphones and start an indoor jam session.
“This is for literally anyone,” Long said. “It’s a low-risk way to get creative and flex your vocal or musical chops.”
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The studio is funded by a city-wide initiative called Star City Safe to add safer recreational opportunities. But Long said they wanted the community to understand that the historic mansion could also be their home.
However, reaching the recording studio requires many steps.
If you want more ADA accessibility, the Raleigh Court and Melrose Branch libraries also offer studios. Four years ago, the Raleigh Court Branch acquired his recording studio and it’s been a hit ever since.
“A lot of students can walk here right after school, do homework and explore their passion for music,” said Amber Lowery, manager of youth services for the City of Roanoke Libraries.
If you would like to book a time slot at one of the library branch studios, just call the library. The Melrose branch phone number is 540-853-2648. To contact the Raleigh Court branch, call 540-853-2240.
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The Fishburn Mansion studio will be available from March.
The establishment will be open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. Users must reserve their studio time in advance through the online registration system or by calling 540-853-2236.
Anyone 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
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