Musical performers, take note: as part of the Year of Chicago Music outlined by Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot in October, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) is currently accepting applications for the Chicago Band Roster.
The Chicago Band Roster is a database of Chicagoland musical performers that will serve as a resource for residents and organizations looking to present high-quality music programs.
At the same time, it aims to increase opportunities for Chicago-based solo musicians and ensembles, which are encouraged to apply for the list.
The online Chicago Band Roster Application must be completed by Friday, January 31, at 5pm CST.
The Year of Chicago Music
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and DCASE announced that 2020 would be the Year of Chicago Music in a press release last October.
While describing the city’s globally-renowned musical heritage as the birthplace of house and gospel music, urban blues and modern jazz while, Mayor Lightfoot declared, “we are a city of stunning music halls, authentic neighborhood clubs, world-class festivals and a youth music scene that is lively and inspiring.”
During the citywide, year-long Year of Chicago Music initiative, DCASE will work with key industry leaders and organizations to convene public and private resources in support of Chicago’s music industry.
The goal is to place a spotlight on Chicago’s music landscape — one of the most influential and dynamic musical sectors on the globe — highlighting its legacy, expanding its audience, and strengthening it through programs that support musicians and sustain creative and cultural development with a focus on the south and west sides of the City.
Preliminary plans
Major sector-building grants to the local music industry via the Chicago Cultural Grants Program – including support for live music on the South and West Sides, increased general operating support for arts nonprofits and new merit-based awards for musicians;
An 18-day celebration of music starting Memorial Day weekend across Chicago including the Chicago House Music Festival, the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, the Chicago Blues Festival and free and ticketed performances at venues across the city;
Public programming including a special focus on Chicago music at the 40th Annual Taste of Chicago, the Millennium Park Summer Music Series co-programed for the first time with record labels, venues and media companies, the ten-day Chicago Jazz Festival and 17-day World Music Festival Chicago;
Professional support for musicians including career development opportunities and a Chicago Musicians Roster;
Support for neighborhoods and venues including programs presented in conjunction with the City’s major music festivals; pop-up performances in vacant, underutilized and nontraditional spaces on the South and West Sides and permanent venue space development programs;
A major advertising and public relations campaign based on a new marketing brand for Chicago music – including media promotional events around the world and music-themed media tours led by Choose Chicago.
Additional details will be announced in early 2020.
