Report looks into the state of NWA's music economy
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People in the music industry in NWA say they're finding local and regional work, and see the environment as inclusive, but more resources could give them a boost, per a new report.
Driving the news: The findings come via the NWA nonprofit Creative Arkansas Community Hub and Exchange, which detailed the state of the music economy in the report after surveying musicians and those who otherwise work in the industry, like music venues.
The intrigue: About 74% of musicians surveyed said they will probably or definitely continue to live in NWA in the next three years. But the cost of living is their top concern.
- About 63% of people in the music industry also work outside of music with 83% relying on their outside job as their primary source of income.
- Also, 70% of respondents have traveled to Tulsa for music-related work, followed by 65% to Little Rock.
What they're saying: Most respondents would like to have a place to connect and collaborate musically, and more than half want a place to connect with other creative industries and somewhere to connect with music services.
- Most venue operators and music presenters would like a best practices guide for presenting live music locally and a directory of local production providers.
What's next: CACHE offered recommendations, like incentivizing the development of more mid-size venues, offering professional development for music professionals and establishing a music hub to facilitate collaboration and provide rehearsal spaces and recording studios.