A fresh initiative in Falmouth is revolutionizing the music scene by offering aspiring artists access to professional studio facilities. The nonprofit, founded by Sam Monaco, owner of Monaco Studios, aims to provide scholarships for studio time to emerging musicians. This support system not only nurtures talent but also bridges the gap between amateur setups and professional environments, encouraging creativity and development in young artists.

From Amateur Beginnings to Professional Support

The founder's journey from a makeshift basement recording space to establishing a high-quality studio underscores the importance of accessible resources for budding musicians. Sam Monaco’s experiences during his youth in Portland have shaped his vision for this nonprofit. He realized that many young artists lack the financial means to access professional studios, which are crucial for honing their skills and gaining industry exposure. By creating this nonprofit, Monaco seeks to provide these opportunities to those who might otherwise miss out due to limited resources.

Monaco Studios, which opened two years ago, has been instrumental in supporting both established and upcoming artists. Initially, the studio collaborated with teachers and students from Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS). These interactions highlighted the need for a structured yet supportive environment where young musicians can thrive. The nonprofit now raises funds specifically to offer studio time scholarships, ensuring that more students can benefit from professional guidance and equipment. Victoria Stubbs, a PATHS teacher and board member, emphasizes how invaluable studio feedback is for an artist’s growth. She notes that the ability to hear oneself objectively through recordings serves as an unparalleled learning tool.

Fostering Creativity and Community

The intimate yet spacious studio attached to Monaco’s home provides an ideal setting for nurturing artistic expression. During a recent session, 19-year-old Adele Edelawit experienced firsthand the benefits of working in such an environment. Surrounded by natural light and supported by attentive engineers, Edelawit found the atmosphere far more conducive to her creative process than her home setup. The relaxed, collaborative vibe at Monaco Studios offers constructive feedback and encouragement, elements crucial for developing artists.

Access to a welcoming and professionally equipped studio can significantly impact an artist’s progress. According to Stubbs, the lack of such resources often prevents artists from completing their compositions. Monaco’s nonprofit aims to change this by providing at least one fully produced song per month for each scholarship recipient throughout 2025. Beyond immediate goals, there are plans to expand partnerships with other music education programs and studios. Initial responses have been overwhelmingly positive, signaling a promising future for this initiative. Through donations and collaborations, Monaco envisions a broader network that will continue to empower and inspire young musicians.