Local Music Podcast: New Messenger Showcases Performers

The Future of Local Music: Vermont Musicians on Art, Survival, and the Magic of Connection

Is the local music scene dying, or is it evolving? In Franklin county, Vermont, musicians are grappling with this very question, finding innovative ways to keep thier art alive. A recent episode of “Hear. Here. (in Vermont),” a podcast by the st. Albans Messenger, dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of making music in a changing landscape.

The Shifting Sands of Performance Spaces and Pay

Andre Maquera, John notaro, and Tyrone Shaw, three seasoned musicians, shared their experiences with podcast host Josh Ellerbrock. One recurring theme? The scarcity of performance venues compared to decades past, coupled with stagnant pay rates. Maquera, a guitarist, producer, and performer, noted the difficulties in navigating today’s competitive social media landscape to reach an audience.

The Allure of the “Gravy Fries” Era

Despite these challenges, a sense of nostalgia and passion permeates their stories.Notaro fondly recalled playing Mondays at nectars’, fueled by “gravy fries and old Magic Hat in a glass bottle.” this sentiment highlights a core truth: for many musicians, the love of the craft outweighs financial gain.

Did you know? Magic Hat Brewing Company, based in South Burlington, Vermont, was a staple of the local beer scene for decades, embodying the spirit of Vermont’s independent businesses.

The Intrinsic Reward: “fun is Pretty Deep”

Shaw succinctly captured the essence of their dedication: “(I do it) because it’s fun, and it’s not a lot deeper than that for me, because fun is pretty deep.” This simple statement underscores the profound satisfaction derived from creating and sharing music, a sentiment echoed by his fellow musicians.

Navigating the Modern Music Maze

Maquera, with 40 years of experience, including his time with the band “8084,” now focuses on studio production at West Street Digital. He emphasizes the uphill battle musicians face in getting their music heard amidst market pressures and the devaluation of live performance.

The Dinosaur Analogy: Too Stubborn to Quit

“Between the live music and studio, it’s just this is what I do when I get up every day…We’re like dinosaurs too stupid to find a way to the nearest tar pit,” maquera joked, highlighting his unwavering commitment to music despite the hurdles.

Collaboration and Trust: The Keys to Musical Magic

All three musicians stressed the importance of collaboration and finding a supportive community. shaw emphasized the power of trust and affection among performers, allowing for spontaneity and surprise during shows.

Expert Tip: Building a strong network of fellow musicians can provide invaluable support, opportunities, and creative inspiration. Consider joining local music associations or attending open mic nights to connect with like-minded individuals.

Practice Makes…addiction?

Notaro and Maquera underscored the significance of dedicated practice. Thay described the desire to create and play music as an “addiction,” a testament to the immersive and rewarding nature of the craft.

The “In the Moment” Experience

Maquera described the ideal state as being “in the moment,” where mechanics fade away, and instinct takes over. This flow state is a common goal for musicians, achieved through countless hours of practice and dedication.

Music as Magic and Ritual

Notaro eloquently described music as “magic,” manipulating sounds and symbols in a ritualistic process for band members.This ritual, repeated through countless performances, creates a unique bond and shared experience.

The Euphoric Energy Loop

The ultimate reward, according to maquera, is the euphoric energy loop created between performers and the audience. This connection, built on shared experience and emotion, elevates the performance to something truly special.

Sacred Ground: The Stage as a Privilege

“I work with a lot of younger artists in the studio, and I always try to impart on them how crucial it is when you set foot on stage. That’s sacred ground. It’s a privilege to get to do that,” Maquera stated, emphasizing the respect and gratitude musicians should have for the opportunity to perform.

Relating to the Human Experience

Notaro echoed this sentiment, stating, “Music is about people and relating to other people. And if people can relate with your experience, that’s the ultimate reward in itself.” this connection, the ability to resonate with others through music, is the driving force for many artists.

Fast Fact: Studies have shown that attending live music performances can reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance social connection.

The Enduring Appeal of Disreputable Material

Shaw concluded with a touch of humor, “I do this stuff as I like to do it. Somehow, if some people like it, that’s great. But it’s disreputable material and has always been.” This playful self-deprecation highlights the rebellious spirit often found in musicians, driven by passion rather than mainstream appeal.

The Future of Local Music: A Vermont Perspective with Dr. Anya Sharma

Keywords: Local music scene, Vermont music, music industry, autonomous musicians, live performance, music community, music career, musician advice, music industry trends

Time.news recently explored the evolving landscape of local music, focusing on the experiences of Vermont musicians.To gain deeper insights, we spoke with Dr. Anya Sharma,a musicologist and professor specializing in the sociology of music and the challenges faced by independent artists.

Time.news: Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us.This article paints a picture of both struggle and unwavering passion within the local music scene in Vermont. Is this a common narrative you see across regional music communities?

Dr.Sharma: Absolutely. The tension between artistic drive and economic realities is a worldwide theme for independent musicians. What’s particularly interesting about the Vermont context, and other similar regions, is the strong sense of community and the deep-rooted connection to place.Musicians aren’t just performing; they’re contributing to the cultural fabric of their towns and cities. They are essential to the local identity.

Time.news: The musicians in this article – Andre maquera, John Notaro, and Tyrone Shaw – mention the scarcity of performance venues and stagnant pay. What’s driving these challenges?

Dr. Sharma: Several factors are at play. The rise of streaming services has significantly altered the revenue landscape for musicians, making it harder to earn a living solely from recordings. This puts greater pressure on live performances as a primary income source. Together, many smaller venues have closed due to rising operating costs, increased competition, and changing consumer habits. Its a perfect storm that squeezes musicians’ earning potential.

Time.news: Andre Maquera uses a humorous “dinosaur” analogy, suggesting musicians are “too stupid to find a way to the nearest tar pit” highlighting their stubborn persistence. Is this inherent dedication enough to sustain a thriving local music scene?

Dr. Sharma: Passion is the fuel, but it needs strategic direction. dedication alone can led to burnout.Musicians need to be savvy entrepreneurs, actively promoting themselves online, building relationships with venues and booking agents, and exploring diverse income streams, like teaching, composing for film/video, or offering online lessons. The “gravy fries” era of solely relying on gigs is largely over.

Time.news: The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration and community. How meaningful is that for the survival and success of musicians today?

Dr. Sharma: Vitally important. the music industry can be isolating and competitive. A supportive network provides emotional encouragement, creative inspiration, and practical assistance. Musicians can share resources, co-promote each other’s gigs, and collaborate on projects, amplifying their reach and impact.Think of it as a collective uplift. Moreover, bands can save resources on gear and collaborate on resources regarding things such as copyright, something most musicians find challenging to understand.

Time.news: Notaro describes music as “magic” and Maquera highlights the “euphoric energy loop” between performers and the audience. Are these personal, almost spiritual connections part of the solution in the face of economic hardship?

Dr. Sharma: Absolutely.These moments of connection are the heart of live music.They create experiences that can’t be replicated by streaming or pre-recorded music. Musicians need to cultivate these experiences, creating engaging performances that draw audiences in and foster a sense of community. This is where musicians can really distinguish themselves.

Time.news: The article includes an “Expert Tip” about building a strong network and joining local music associations. What other practical advice would you offer aspiring and established musicians navigating today’s music landscape?

Dr. Sharma: First, embrace technology but don’t let it overwhelm you. Use social media strategically to build an audience, but also focus on real-world connections. Second, be adaptable and open to new opportunities. Explore different genres, experiment with new performance formats, and be willing to collaborate with artists from other disciplines. Third, prioritize your mental and physical well-being. The music industry can be demanding, so it’s essential to take care of yourself and prevent burnout. never stop learning. Attend workshops, listen to other musicians, and stay current on industry trends.

Time.news: The article ends with Tyrone Shaw’s statement about playing “disreputable material,” suggesting a rebellious spirit and dedication to his craft regardless of mainstream appeal. should musicians focus more on authenticity than commercial success?

Dr. Sharma: Authenticity resonates. audiences can tell when a musician is genuinely passionate about their art. while commercial success is certainly desirable for some, remaining true to your artistic vision is ultimately more fulfilling and creates a deeper connection with your audience. The music industry needs more authenticity, not less.

Time.news: Dr. Sharma,thank you for your valuable insights. Your expertise sheds light on the realities and enduring magic of the local music scene and offers practical advice for those navigating its complexities.