Huntsville to host music audit Wednesday

Published 3:15 pm Tuesday, June 5, 2018

Huntsville is calling on musicians, makers, and music lovers to turn out Wednesday for a citywide music audit, according to a press release.

The forum is set for 5:30-8 p.m. at Yellowhammer Lost Highway Bierhall at Campus No. 805.

Consultants with London-based Sound Diplomacy are in town this week to conduct field research and meet relevant stakeholders across the public and private sectors. The firm was hired by Huntsville to conduct the audit.

Over the next 14 months, the company will inventory local musicians, venues, festivals, and music education; and in turn, help to identify ways the city can nurture and develop a thriving music economy.

“Music plays a vital role in our health and well-being, but we haven’t been as intentional about supporting music as we have in other aspects of quality of life,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “This audit is our first step in strategically creating a direction.”

Director of Urban Development Shane Davis said most dynamic cities have an exciting music and cultural scene.

“When we go after the best and brightest workers and the most innovative companies, entertainment is a major item on the checklist,” Davis said. “This work will help us understand what we are doing well, what we need to do better, and to develop a set of strategies so that music can be integrated into our growing economy.”

Those interested in being a part of the process should come to the forum and register their information with the Sound Diplomacy team. Following their visit to Huntsville, the company will begin field research for an audit of the music industry in Muscle Shoals and Florence. The Yellowhammer Lost Highway Bierhall is located on Campus No. 805, 2600 Clinton Avenue West, 35805.