Supporting Music Venues & Preserving Cultural Heritage
The music industry is evolving—and so are the challenges facing independent venues and local music ecosystems. Recent conversations have highlighted several key themes:
Policy & Advocacy
Transitioning from live entertainment to city government brings unique insights. Crafting state-level legislation and leading nighttime economy initiatives show how collaboration can strengthen local music communities.
Revenue Pressures
Declining alcohol consumption among younger audiences, rising insurance and property costs, and shifting consumer preferences toward large-scale arena shows are reshaping the financial model for small venues.
Collaboration & Innovation
Partnerships between cities, nonprofits, and universities are driving creative solutions—like professional development for musicians and acoustic assessments to reduce noise complaints while improving sound quality.
Preserving Musical Heritage
Tourist-focused entertainment often overshadows original music in cultural districts. Targeted grants, statewide music funds, and education partnerships can help keep authentic music alive for future generations.
The big question: How do we balance economic realities with cultural preservation?
Building trust, fostering collaboration, and investing in creative solutions are key steps forward.
Julia E. Heath is a passionate advocate for independent music and nightlife, who currently serves as the Policy & Outreach Manager in the New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy. She focuses on developing music policies and initiatives that enhance local nightlife, creating an inclusive environment that supports artists, venues, and audiences.
Julia's journey in live entertainment began in college and took a significant turn during the pandemic when she became actively involved in policy advocacy. As President of the National Independent Venue Association’s California Chapter, she played a crucial role in securing the largest investment in arts and culture in U.S. history: the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, valued at $16.2 billion. Additionally, she successfully advocated for $150 million in state-level support for independent venues in 2020 and worked as part of a group to create a new kind of liquor license for all ages music venues in 2021, highlighting her commitment to the sector.
Now residing in New Orleans, Julia continues to champion the local music scene and actively engages as a patron, committed to fostering community-driven policies that uplift the live entertainment sector.
