This is Seattle Academy student Elif Koc’s final week of her senior project working with CHS. She’s done a great job. Thanks Elif! Do well!

New at 12th and Spruce: Groove Box

Here is a Capitol Hill arts space conundrum for you. As development swallows up old, cheap(er) spaces that lend themselves to (sometimes) loud practice sessions, where can musicians find a nearby place to hone their craft?

A company called Groove Universe is moving into the neighborhood with Groove Box, giving Capitol Hill musicians a new set of 16 rehearsal spaces. Opening in July, Groove Box can be found on the corner of 12th and Spruce.

This summer, the music rehearsal space scene on the Hill will be going through some changes. As CHS reported, Pike/Pine rehearsal studio Chop House is relocating to make room for Liz Dunn’s new 11th Ave office and apartment project. Dunn said the process to find a new location for the Chop House is still underway.

Groove Universe is behind a few other rehearsal venues in Seattle, The Brewery in the SODO district and The Institution in Belltown. While their other locations have been bigger, the new space planned to open later this summer is more of a boutique rehearsal venue.

“We want these spaces to be kitchier and cooler than most rehearsal spaces. There’s a sense of community behind our buildings,” said Katrina Lorme, a musician herself and one of the owners of Groove Universe along with her husband and longtime Seattle rocker Charlie Lorme. The new space boasts clean rooms, great security, convenient parking, and wi-fi, she said.

Seattle rock legend Jeff Gilbert pictured at his West Seattle Feedback Lounge opening (Image: West Seattle Blog with permission)