Central Machine Works Hosts Free Concert Series in Support of Austin Nonprofits

Central Machine Works, the east side brewery known for its beer hall, pizza and expansive event space, has brought back its live concert series for a second season. Last fall, they presented “The Next Stage,” a 12-week run of free live music that drew more than 13,000 Austinites who came to experience a wide range of musical genres. Following this success, this year’s series, in partnership with Resound Presents, features 20 free concerts running through June 7, all set in the 12,000-square-foot outdoor beer garden.

“We love being able to open our doors, and to do so in a way where you’re connecting the artists with people that just happen to want to come here and experience it,” says Central Machine Works’ co-founder and owner John Scott. The vision behind this concert series was established on three major pillars: accessibility, advocacy for the arts and fostering community engagement. “We wanted it to be open to the public. We wanted to support the arts and the musicians — primarily Texas musicians — and we wanted to include nonprofits that also need a voice and a seat at the table,” Scott says.

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The stage at Central Machine Works sits within the brewery’s 12,000-square-foot outdoor beer garden, which hosts live music, community events and casual gatherings in East Austin. (Photo by Reno Gustamante)

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Live music performance at Central Machine Works. (Photo By Matthew Blissard)

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Guests enjoying live music at Central Machine Works. (Photo By Matthew Blissard)

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Central Machine Works’ free concert series this year will feature 20 shows running through June 7. (Photo by Reno Gustamante)

Live music for a cause

The lineup reflects the range of artists that make up Austin’s distinctive indie music scene. With genres spanning indie and psychedelic rock, old-school country, funk and R&B, along with touches of experimental and electronic, there’s a night for everyone. Highlights include Shinyribs, Holy Wave and White Denim, with Greyhounds closing out the series.

“These are artists that you would normally either pay a cover for or have to buy a ticket to see,” Scott says. “We’re all part of an authentic Austin experience that we felt was slipping away to some degree.” More than offering live music, each show raises money for one of eight local Austin nonprofits through donations at the door and special cocktail sales.

Last year’s concert series raised a total of $18,728 for the participating organizations. This year’s partners include Save Our Springs Alliance, KUTX, Austin Powwow, and Keep Austin Beautiful.

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