Porter began his teaching career in 1954 at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi. After two years in Mississippi, Porter was drafted in the U.S. Army, where he spent two years as a chaplain’s assistant in Fort Niagara, New York.
After his stint in the U.S. Army, Porter returned to Little Rock in the late 1950s and spent the next twelve years teaching vocal music at Horace Mann High School, Parkview High School, and Philander Smith College. In addition to his teaching and as a way to supplement his income for his growing family, Porter played jazz piano in the evenings. Though he sometimes played solo, people more often associated him with “The Art Porter Trio.” The trio was in great demand, especially for weddings, country club affairs, and city and state social events. Occasionally famous musicians, including singers Tony Bennett and Liberace, traveling through Arkansas would join the trio on stage and “jam” with the group. Even then-Governor Bill Clinton, a talented saxophonist himself, often joined Porter’s trio.
Besides the Art Porter Trio, Porter played jazz music with his young sons: Art, Jr., Kenneth, and Reginald. Porter experienced controversy, however, as the family often played in public venues that sold alcohol. The state legislature, in support of Porter, enacted the “Art Porter Bill,” which allowed minors to perform in clubs while under adult supervision.
