HUNTSVILLE – The city has created a first-of-its-kind program that will carry the word about Huntsville to other cities and states across the country and also internationally with musicians as ambassadors.
The Huntsville Music Office is offering traveling musicians an innovative opportunity to not only spread the lure of the Rocket City but also to make some extra money while on the road. The Music Ambassador Program looks to provide financial support to musicians who promote the city while they are touring.
“The music made in Huntsville is very special,” said Matt Madrella, Huntsville’s music officer. “Mobilizing our amazing talent as brand ambassadors will help put Huntsville on the map for others who might want to pay us a visit.
“When a cool musician on stage says, ‘Huntsville is awesome, and you should check us out,’ their fans are closely listening.”
Award amounts range from $750 to $1,500 per tour, with an annual cap of $4,500. More about the initiative, eligibility requirements and to complete an online application, visit https://huntsvillemusic.com/music-ambassador-program/.
According to a news release, MAP is the first municipal government-funded strategic music export program in the country. Mandrella said the program’s benefits are twofold – incentivize touring talent to put down stronger roots in Huntsville while also attracting other artists and curious music lovers to visit or potentially relocate to the area.
“Touring is an essential piece many musicians depend on to sustain their careers, but the reality is that it’s also very hard,” he said. “These funds will help alleviate some of the risks and challenges of being on the road while also helping artists tour more efficiently and profitably so they can keep sharing our story.”
The city entered into a consulting agreement with Music Export Memphis (MEM) to develop the program.
“Huntsville really gets it,” MEM Executive Director Elizabeth Cawein said. “The leadership understands that you can be a city of choice for musicians with smart, innovative approaches to music ecosystem support, and that doing it the right way also mobilizes those musicians as incredible evangelists for the city.
“With more and more artists out on the road, backed by the city, there will be a buzz around what’s happening in Huntsville.’’
Artist eligibility is based on several factors, including vetting by the Huntsville Music Office. Those applying must also have five or more consecutive tour dates booked outside the city. Funding is based on the size of the band as well as geographic reach of the tour.
Once selected, the Ambassadors will help promote Huntsville while on tour and shed a positive light on the city’s culture on social media and the stage.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our email newsletter to have all our smart stories delivered to your inbox.
