Colorado Creative Industries announces new community-based music touring program
DETOUR MUSIC PROGRAM
Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) announced the launch of a new program called Detour, a statewide pilot that creates a model of music touring as a community-based, sustainable and creatively rewarding practice. A new component of CCI’s music strategy, Detour will join Colorado musicians and bands with towns from throughout the state in programming performances, residencies, workshops, collaborations, field recordings and community celebrations.
Detour will develop a sustainable touring model for musicians that connect communities through song-sharing and engagement. The effort is led by CCI with partners including Altitude Digital, Denver Arts & Venues, 2MX2, Huckleberry Roasters, SpokesBUZZ, History Colorado, Songbird Cellars and United Interests. CCI will contribute $11,000 to the initial pilot, and an additional $20,000 will be leveraged through show revenues and local area support.
“Detour will enhance traditional touring models and promote access to high quality talent through collaborative engagement events,” said Margaret Hunt, executive director of CCI. This concept will shift music-making from an emphasis on consumption to cooperative creation.”
Fifteen communities have committed to the pilot program: Beulah, Cortez, Denver, Durango, Fort Garland, Fort Morgan, Ignacio, Joes, Rangely, Pueblo, San Luis, Sterling, Telluride, Towaoc and Trinidad. These were selected based on variety of geographic locations, commitment of local resources and community involvement. Selection criteria will be developed for Colorado bands and communities beginning in 2016.
The inaugural Detour will launch on Sept. 2, 2015 in Pueblo, featuring the internationally renowned and regionally revered rock and hip hop band the Flobots. In 2007, the band founded Flobots.org, now Youth On Record, an organization dedicated to empowering young people through creative education.
“Playing big festival shows is always a thrill, but there’s something truly special about the intimacy of a small venue,” said Jonny 5, one of Flobots lead vocalists. “It’s even more special if you can find ways to meet people beforehand; to know the stories behind the faces and then watch those faces react to the show – that is the ultimate gift.” Most events are free with a limited number of ticketed shows.
For more information and a schedule of events, click here. To watch a video on Detour, click video.
Colorado Creative Industries is a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Established to capitalize on the immense potential for our creative sector to enhance economic growth in Colorado, the mission of Colorado Creative Industries is to promote, support and expand the creative industries to drive Colorado’s economy, grow jobs and enhance our quality of life.
