The fourth annual Texas Sounds & Cities Conference will take place in Fort Worth on Wednesday and Thursday of this week, according to a press release from Governor Greg Abbott, teaching Texans about the state’s music industry and music tourism.
Abbott shared in the press release that music is a significant part of the culture in Texas. Growing the music scene in the state helps to draw in more jobs and investments as well, according to the governor.
“Music is a big part of the Texas brand and culture. A vibrant music industry in communities across Texas not only adds to the quality of life, it is a competitive advantage, helping Texas to attract major capital investments, culturally diverse talent, and new jobs across industries,” Abbott said.
The conference, hosted by both Visit Fort Worth and the Texas Music Office, will feature panel discussions and conversations about certified Music Friendly Communities in Texas. Sound Diplomacy, the Texas Film Commission, the Texas Music Office, and other organizations will take part in the conversations.
“I thank the Texas Music Office and our Music Friendly Communities for sharing their knowledge and joining the conversation on continued economic expansion strategies for local music businesses, musicians, venues, and the music industry across the state,” Abbott added.
Texas has almost 40 certified Music Friendly Communities. Fort Worth was the first such community to be recognized, according to Tom Martens, associate vice president of creative and branding for Visit Fort Worth and the director of the Fort Worth Music Office.
“Music is an important part of our local visitor economy and Fort Worth prides itself on being the first Music Friendly Community in Texas,” Martens said. “We are excited to partner again with the Texas Music Office on Texas Sounds & Cities as we aim to create an environment for music-friendly cities, venues, and artists to learn how we can further collaborate and keep supporting Texas music.”
The program started in 2017 and consists of other certified Music Friendly Communities in the state, including Austin, Houston, San Antonio, El Paso, and Dallas. Multiple cities are currently in the process of becoming certified, according to the Music Friendly website. These include Frisco, Rockwall, Grapevine, Corsicana, and Lufkin.
“I am proud of the work that our certified Music Friendly Communities do on behalf of their local music industries. The Texas Sounds & Cities Conference will be a great event to bring them together, offering opportunities to learn from experts in the music industry and to collaborate with their fellow communities,” Texas Music Office Director Brendon Anthony shared in the press release.
The Fourth Annual Texas Sounds & Cities Conference will be held in the Fort Worth Stockyards from November 9 to November 10. To purchase tickets, go here.
