COCA Convos: Community Music Panel Discussion

Join us at The Sound Bar for one or more of three panel discussions in which panelists will speak about themselves/their organization in relation to their panel topic, before moving into Q&A with the panel and with the audience. The panels should last around an hour each, and they are scheduled for 10am, 11:30 am, and 1pm with a short break for lunch.

10 AM: Rebuilding Community Through Music: Local Live Music, Social Connection, and Community Wellbeing: Americans are spending more time alone than ever, fueling a rise in social isolation that is reshaping everything from mental well-being to civic engagement. Can live music be part of the solution? This discussion will examine the role of local music scenes in fostering real-world connections, improving mental health, and strengthening the social fabric of communities. We’ll explore how live events create shared experiences, build relationships across social divides, and contribute to a more engaged and civil society.

11:30 AM: From Virality to Vitality: Social Media and Live Music: Social media has changed how people discover, promote, and experience live music. But is it helping or hurting local scenes? This panel explores how algorithms shape what audiences see, the challenges of cutting through digital noise, and the importance of leveraging social media alternatives like traditional media and direct outreach. Panelists will discuss the balance between online engagement and real-world attendance, as well as strategies for building sustainable audiences in the digital age.

1 PM: Local Stages, Local Dollars: The Economic Power of Live Music: Live music isn’t just entertainment—it’s an economic engine. From restaurants and retailers to job creation and tourism, live music scenes contribute to vibrant local economies. This panel will examine how local venues, independent artists, and small businesses work together to spur economic growth. We’ll also discuss the challenges posed by online retail, streaming services, and corporate consolidation, and how communities can use live music as a key part of their economic strategy.

Host or Publisher Council on Culture and Arts (COCA)