Grace Weber’s Music Lab returns to summerfest:
amfam collab 2026 recap
Pictured from left to right: GWML performer JJBoAllen, GWML Program Director B~Free, GWML performers Mala Mala (Mabel, Luckas & Athena), Dessy, GWML Program Assistant Brit Bicole & AmFam Agent: Summerfest AmFam House on 7.02.26.
PHOTOS BY JEN ELLIS
From the Music Lab stage...to the Summerfest stage!
Grace Weber's Music Lab returned to the AmFam House for our 6th Annual Summerfest Pop-Up Show, celebrating another incredible year of young artists finding their voices, growing in their craft, & stepping confidently into the spotlight. This year's showcase featured unforgettable performances from JJBoAllen, Dessy, & Mala Māla, three artists who spent Season 9 sharpening their skills, sharing their original music, & embracing every opportunity to grow through the Music Lab community. Watching them take the stage at Summerfest wasn't just another performance—it was a celebration of how far they've come.
From backstage moments in the green room to soundcheck, interviews, live performances, & everything in between, the day was filled with joy, creativity, encouragement, & community. We were also honored to share the stage with the incredible Ko-Thi Dance Company, whose artistry & energy helped make the afternoon even more special. Hosted by Grace Weber's Music Lab's own B~Free & Brit Nicole, the afternoon was filled with engaging artist interviews, community connection, & plenty of moments that kept the energy high from beginning to end.
JJBOALLEN
DESSY
MALA MALA
A heartfelt thank you to American Family Insurance, Summerfest, our incredible partners, families, volunteers, & every person who stopped by the AmFam House to support these talented young creatives. To JJ, Desi, Mala Māla, & every young artist who walked through the Music Lab doors this season: we're so proud of you. Thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey. Moments like these are a reminder of what Grace Weber's Music Lab is all about—creating opportunities for young creatives to grow, connect, & confidently share their artistry with the world.
We can't wait to continue building those opportunities for the next generation of Milwaukee musicians, songwriters, performers, & creatives for years to come.
GWML write-up: featured article with Imagine MKE
With the season 7 finale, GWML had the honor of being highlighted in a featured article by local arts org & nonprofit, Imagine MKE. In an interview with local artist & GWML Program Director Britney Freeman-Farr (B~Free), readers were given a deeper look at the purpose & functionality of the Music Lab & how it supports the city’s creative youth.
“Like a monthly masterclass party for teens, since 2017, Grace Weber's Music Lab (presented by HYFIN) has offered free opportunities for Milwaukee-area teens to learn and get advice from music industry experts and to connect with other young creatives, express themselves, and showcase their talents.” - Elisabeth Gasparka
