About The Mainstay

The Mainstay

The Mainstay opened its doors in a 100 year old Rock Hall building on Nov 13, 1997. Outfitted with 120 mismatched chairs, Tom McHugh’s sound system, a few cast off theatre lights, the building came to life. Now, 425 concerts later, and celebrating ten years of success, The Mainstay is a fixture on Rock Hall’s old time Main Street.

The Mainstay (Home of Musical Magic) is a 501(c)3, non profit dedicated to the arts, and serving Rock Hall and the surrounding region. We are dedicated to presenting local, regional and national level talent, at a reasonable price, in an almost perfect acoustic setting. You really can’t have a bad seat in this room.

Music from all genres is offered: American roots, classical, classic blues, and jazz… The Mainstay has become “nearly famous” for its jazz presentations: Bucky Pizzarelli, Gene Bertoncini, Chuck Redd, Frank Vignola, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Bill Allred, Max Corzilius, Harry Allen, Warren and Allan Vache’… these are just a few of the nationally famed artists to play on our stage…

Audience

It is impossible to pick out just a few great nights… so many are memorable. Listen to the comment of one of our regulars: “It is hard to explain this place… mismatched chairs, old rugs, a few sofas, and a small stage… but, a professional grade grand piano, always in tune, a great sound system, and, most of all, one of the great audiences you will find anywhere! They are informed, appreciative and you can feel their energy. No food service, clanging cash registers, or conversation… just the music.”

As The Mainstay enters the 10th year, we are free of debt (for now!), booked for the year, staffed by the greatest team of volunteers anywhere, and feeling the energy. Come visit us. We promise a night to remember!