Supporting local music is an exciting way to engage with your community, discover new talent, and foster a thriving cultural scene. For those living in Columbus, Ohio, the local music community is vibrant and diverse, offering numerous opportunities for involvement. Whether you are a musician, a music lover, or simply someone looking to support local arts, there are many ways to get involved. This guide will walk you through some of the best ways to support and participate in the Columbus music community.
In This Article
Become a Local Music Champion
Want to do more for the scene? Download our free Local Artist Support Kit, filled with templates and tips for promoting your favorite bands online.
Attend Local Shows and Events
One of the simplest and most effective ways to support local music is by attending concerts. Columbus boasts a variety of venues that host local musicians. Buying tickets, showing up for opening acts, and purchasing merchandise directly supports the artists and keeps these vital spaces in business.
Iconic Local Venues:
- Ace of Cups: Known for its eclectic lineup featuring local bands and touring acts.
- Rumba Café: A cozy venue that regularly showcases Columbus talent.
- Newport Music Hall & The Basement: Often highlight up-and-coming artists alongside larger acts.
- Skully's Music-Diner: A vibrant spot for a wide range of musical genres.
Volunteer at Music Festivals
Columbus hosts several music festivals throughout the year, offering a perfect opportunity to get involved. Festivals often rely on volunteers to help with tasks like setup, ticketing, and crowd management. It's a great way to see music for free and meet like-minded people. Look for opportunities at ComFest, Sonic Temple, and the Columbus Arts Festival.
Support Local Record Stores
Local record stores are vital hubs for the music community. By shopping at stores like Magnolia Thunderpussy, Used Kids Records, and Lost Weekend Records, you help sustain local businesses and discover new artists. Look for albums by local bands and attend in-store performances.
Engage with Local Music Organizations
Several organizations in Columbus are dedicated to supporting and promoting local music. Getting involved with groups like the Columbus Music Commission or Music Columbus can provide opportunities to volunteer, network, and contribute to the health of the entire music ecosystem.
Promote Local Artists on Social Media
In the digital age, a share or a follow can make a huge difference. Following local artists on social media, sharing their music and events, and using relevant hashtags like #ColumbusMusic or #SupportLocalMusic helps expand their audience and supports their careers at no cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best way is to attend shows at smaller, local-focused venues like Ace of Cups and Rumba Café. Also, explore the 'local music' sections at record stores like Used Kids Records, and listen to local radio stations like CD 92.9 FM, which often feature Columbus-based artists.
Supporting local music doesn't have to cost a lot! The most powerful free support you can offer is online promotion. Follow local bands on social media, share their music and event posts, add their songs to your public playlists, and tell your friends about them. This word-of-mouth marketing is invaluable.
While large festivals like ComFest have formal volunteer programs, smaller venues and local bands often need help too. You can reach out to your favorite small venue or a local band directly and ask if they need help with things like handing out flyers, working the merch table, or helping with load-in/load-out for a show.
Conclusion
Supporting local music in Columbus is not only rewarding but also essential for the growth and sustainability of the community. By attending shows, volunteering, shopping locally, and promoting artists online, you can make a significant impact. So, get involved and enjoy the vibrant music culture that Columbus has to offer!
This Article is written by Travis Osterloh @ Osterlohguitaracademy.com. See our website for more articles and inquiries!
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