Anyone involved in the local music ecosystem is being asked to share their experiences, challenges, and dreams for the future through the Music Census, launched today by the Greater Owensboro Music Commission. The effort aims to strengthen the local music scene and shape future investments in tourism, economic development, and cultural planning.
The census will remain open through August 1 at greaterowensboromusic.org. Respondents must be 18 or older.
The effort is open to musicians, venue owners, educators, promoters, engineers, students, and anyone else involved in the industry, whether full-time, part-time, or unpaid.
The census covers the entire Greater Owensboro Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Daviess, Hancock, and McLean counties. However, anyone involved in the region’s music community is encouraged to participate, regardless of where they live.
“This isn’t just a survey, it’s a chance to build something together,” said Candance Castlen Brake, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “Music connects every generation and every corner of our region. By listening to our community, we can create new opportunities and ensure Owensboro and its neighbors are placed firmly on the music map.”
The census is being conducted in partnership with Sound Music Cities, a national leader in music ecosystem research that has worked with more than 30 cities, including Nashville, New Orleans, and Chattanooga. Results will be published later this year and are expected to guide decisions around economic development, venue access, music tourism, youth engagement, and cultural planning.
“Owensboro has a real chance to capitalize on the power of music tourism and create something that sets us apart,” said Mark Calitri, President of Visit Owensboro. “It’s a unique opportunity to build identity, drive visitors, and energize our community.”
Daviess County Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen noted the region’s musical roots — from bluegrass to symphonic and everything in between — and said the census could help preserve that legacy.
“Our Daviess County community has a rich and storied music history,” Castlen said. “The Census will offer valuable information that will assist us in preserving, maintaining, and growing the cultural life in our community.”
Mayor Tom Watson echoed the importance of investing in Owensboro’s creative economy.
“This is a deeply musical city, but too often we don’t think of ourselves that way,” Watson said. “As mayor and lifelong supporter of music and the arts, I want to see our creative economy thrive. But for that to happen, we need to understand the human dimensions of our music scene.”
To complete the survey or learn more, visit greaterowensboromusic.org. Community organizations and leaders are encouraged to share the survey within their networks.
By Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times