Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the City of Brownwood, in collaboration with the Texas Music Office (TMO), will be hosting both in-person and virtual workshops aimed at promoting music community development within the state. Slated for October 6, the Music Friendly Texas Community workshop, the first stage in obtaining the certifying badge of a music-friendly city, will be held at the Lehnis Railroad Museum and Visitor Center in Brownwood.
During the workshop, TMO officials, including Community Relations and Outreach Specialist Gini Mascorro, are expected to detail the certification process and the benefits that come with achieving the Music Friendly Texas status. As reported, the Office of the Texas Governor has deep musical roots, noting that "Music is key to the Texas brand." This program, touted as the first in the nation since its 2016 inception, offers Texas communities a distinct vehicle for spurring music industry growth and attracting professionals from the field.
More than 85 cities in Texas have already received the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation, as part of a wide-ranging initiative to amplify the state's musical prowess and economic clout, which reportedly accounts for over 196,000 jobs and generates north of $31.7 billion each year. Governor Abbott expressed his gratitude towards the TMO's efforts in spearheading creative partnerships and fostering job creation within the music industry.
The upcoming Brownwood workshop welcomes public participation, extending an invitation to musicians, venue owners, and anyone keen on the vibrancy of the Texas music scene. Interested parties can join the discussion at the prescribed time either in person or through a provided online link, which holds the key to a statewide network poised for cultural and economic enrichment through music. Further information and workshop details can be sought through Tatiana Figueroa, the Visitor Services Manager for the City of Brownwood, at [email protected].
