“Wouldn’t it be cool if we did this permanently?” That’s how it all began. This is The Warming House a small intimate music venue in Minneapolis. It opened in May 2016. The idea came from Brianna Lane a Minneapolis singer-songwriter. She’d toured the East Coast and loved the small listening rooms. She envisioned a similar space in her hometown.
John Louis a co-owner readily agreed. The name itself? A happy accident. They saw a sign for a hiking store in Colorado. The Warming House found its home sharing a building with Farmstead Bike Shop on Bryant Avenue South.
The Warming House isn’t just a venue. It’s a community hub. It hosts open mic nights for kids jam nights and even music business discussions. It’s a non-profit relying on donations memberships and sponsorships. Memberships start at $75 a year and offer perks. This supports local music and helps keep the spirit alive.
Musicians love The Warming House. The venue prioritizes sound quality. Every note every lyric is clear. There’s even a Spotify playlist showcasing upcoming artists. Each show is live-streamed via Concert Window making it accessible for everyone. The cozy green room offers artists a place to relax. The quiet atmosphere makes it a popular choice. Even national touring artists return.
Brianna Lane the Executive Director shares her vision. She prefers a small attentive audience to a large inattentive one. The Warming House reflects that. It’s a place where music truly connects with listeners. It cuts away distractions so musicians can be heard. It’s an incubator for local talent a safe space for musicians to grow and learn. It’s a place where songwriters find their voice. And it’s right here before us.