Clearwater residents now have a locally‑run venue dedicated to emerging musicians and young audiences. Named Learning, the space opened at 13757 49th Street N. as a do‑it‑yourself alternative to corporate concert promoters.
Founders and Vision
Learning was founded by Vonne Parks, a member of Tampa Bay hip‑hop group They Hate Change, and DJ/producer Zoë Robinson, who performs as Fessi K. They partnered with fellow musicians AJ Denhoff and Nadya Roman to create a venue that is “non‑corporate” and rooted in the community. Parks emphasized that Learning is not affiliated with large entities such as Live Nation, AEG, Access or Golden Voice, which often open venues without local ties.
Affordable All‑Ages Shows
The venue’s pricing reflects its mission to welcome younger fans. All tickets are priced under $10, and all‑ages events cost just $5. Parks and Robinson said the goal is to give high‑school students a place to experience live music without the barrier of a bar‑only environment. “They’re coming in droves and they’re all in high school,” Parks noted, stressing that without such options an entire generation could be excluded from the local music scene.
DIY Artists and Community Focus
Learning’s lineup features independent acts such as DJNOTURGIRL, Justin Depth, and pali—musicians who often balance day jobs with their artistic pursuits and book their own tours. The venue also serves as the home of Sector.FM, an online community radio station launched in 2023 by Parks and bandmate Andre Gainey. Sector.FM broadcasts a wide range of genres, from hip‑hop and neo‑soul to baile funk and Chicago‑originated juke, highlighting music that is unconventional and not mainstream.
More Than a Stage
Beyond concerts, Learning provides bookshelves, record collections, and a visible radio studio where visitors can watch DJs work live. Starting in September, the space will be open to the public during Sector.FM’s live broadcasts on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, allowing community members to drop in, socialize, and engage with the local creative scene.
Supporting the Next Generation
Robinson explained that the all‑ages focus is intentional: “We want a place that’s not a bar, that is all‑ages because that’s a whole demographic that just gets cut out.” By keeping shows affordable and accessible, Learning aims to nurture young talent and give teenagers a venue where they can both perform and enjoy music alongside peers.
Learning’s launch adds a fresh cultural hub to Clearwater, offering a non‑profit‑style alternative to commercial venues and reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a supportive environment for independent artists.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
