The Idea

The seeds of the idea for The Soundry were planted several years ago when one of our founders took his bass guitar with him to work so that he could drive straight from his 9-5 to band rehearsal after work. Carrying that bass through the halls of the big software development firm where he worked, he was amazed at all of the comments that it drew — “Oh I play drums but my neighbor really doesn’t like it”, “I used to play but since I had kids I can’t make noise”, “I play guitar, I just don’t know anyone else to jam with”, etc.”

Those comments, along with years of hosting band rehearsals in his basement, convinced him that the DC Metro area needed a shared space where not only could people make noise, but they could build a community. A clean, professional, affordable space that would bring out the best in people and help them to hone their talents.

The Search

During the two year search for the ideal location it became clear that musicians weren’t the only ones that needed this space. Numerous painters, sculptors, and artists in other mediums were in the same boat. Paint fumes, clay dust, a need for wide open space and big tables.

The Soundry

Simply put, the mission of The Soundry is to get artists out of their basements and into the community by providing affordable space and support. It helps the artists and it benefits the community at large. We’re for people who want to start taking their art more seriously, and for people who want to support that expression in our community.