A historic music venue in Detroit has received a major boost toward its restoration efforts. The Detroit Sound Conservancy this week announced that they've received a $1.9 million grant from the Mellon Foundation toward the preservation of the Blue Bird Inn.
The Blue Bird Inn is located on Tireman Avenue on Detroit's west side. When restored, the historic jazz club will become a music venue once again, but will also offer space for the community and it will be a cultural heritage center.
“We are profoundly grateful to Detroit’s legacy of cultural champions who have paved the way for this substantial philanthropic support,” said Jonah Raduns-Silverstein DSC Director of Operations. “After years of work and advocacy, The Blue Bird Inn will once again become a welcoming home for Detroit’s ongoing musical story. These resources allow us to fully restore the Bird to its historic, sonic, and cultural excellence.”
The rehab is expected to take about four years. The group intends to maintain its historic character while modernizing it for future generations. Updates include installing a state-of-the-art sound system, reinstalling the stage and recreating the original seating layout and lighting, rebuilding the bar, hand-plastering the walls, and reinstalling the tin ceiling.
The Detroit Sound Conservancy will also work to build sustainability within itself, hiring full-time staff members and increasing its programming while preserving Detroit's music history.
The DSC has previously received $500,000 from the state of Michigan and $300,000 from the Erb Family Foundation for this effort.
