Porky’s Groove Machine has been getting both funky and silly since the fall of 2011. Formed in Appleton, WI and now based in Minneapolis, MN, they have spent the last eight years performing everywhere from dirty basements to historic theaters, for audiences comprising anyone from middle school birthday party-goers to high-powered construction executives. While their costumes and sense of humor show their willingness to not take themselves too seriously, their dedication to high-energy and high-entertainment performances is anything but laughable. With classic covers, quirky originals, and synchronized dance moves (for band and audience alike), their live shows are a delight for crowds of all ages.

Nearing a decade of trombone solo-ing and audience congas lines, they have not gone unnoticed by audiences and promoters across the Midwest; Porky’s has been chosen to support national touring acts like Guster, Here Come the Mummies, The Motet, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, The Werks, and The Main Squeeze. As winners of the 2018 Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) for “Best R&B/Soul Band,” they were one of three bands chosen to headline the sold out Wisconsin Funk Fest at Madison’s legendary Majestic Theater in January, 2018.

Porky’s Groove Machine also offers workshops to middle and high school band programs in which they share their passion for funk, improvisation, and getting silly. As the ensemble in residence for Appleton, WI’s Mile of Music Music Education team, Porky’s considers breaking the barrier between audience and performer an integral part of their mission as a band. All professional music educators in one way or anther, the band has given workshops as a part of the Mile of Music festival, as well as for the band/choir programs of Fridley High School (Minneapolis, MN), University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee, WI), Upper Mississippi Academy (St. Paul, MN), Lawrence University Band Camp (Appleton, WI), and Wrightstown High School (Wrightstown, WI)