In their own words

“Collaborations help us to all get to know one another, learn from each other and create the networks to sustain the growth of the music scene here in town which also extends outward on a bigger level.” — Erin Scholze, Dreamspider Publicity

“Compared to my experiences in Nashville and elsewhere, I’m most struck by the comraderie and collaboration of local music industry professionals. Artists and creative types have great access to the knowledge and experience of the marketing, publicity, booking and production folks in town.” — Molly Nagel-Driessen, project management and marketing/ Music Allies & Creative Allies, GearTrack, Little Engine Project Management

“One thing that needs to be improved in the local music scene is much better pay for the musicians. Once this happens, then that money can trickle down to other parts of the music business here. Making music is a sacred, creative act. I firmly believe that musicians make the world a much better place to live in, and they should be rewarded handsomely for all their effort.”  — Robert George, Owner of Sound Temple Studios

“[Asheville has] become the de facto music and arts mecca of the Southeast.  That wouldn’t be possible if we didn’t have all the absolutely amazing and incredibly talented artists we’re lucky enough to be able to call local musicians.” — Sam Katz, independent music promoter, buyer, publicist and marketer

“There’s a commitment to the craft here and lots of innovation is happening.” — Arieh Samson, promoter, tour manager and production manager/ Heira Productions and New Mountain.

“For me, it’s been the quality of talent here and those musician’s openness for collaboration. I also think Echo Mountain is another major tentpole for the music industry here.  It’s what drew me to Asheville initially and has fostered a lot of great relationships and creative projects through their support of local music.” — Ben Lovett, composer for film and television.