By: Jonny Verbeten, Arts Educaton Coordinator
In the summer of 1982, Jack Lang and France’s Ministry of Culture conceived of a festival-styled celebration of music held in communal spaces and completely free to the public. From this concept came the first Fête de la Musique, now a federal holiday in France. In the forty-three years since, Make Music Day has grown into an international phenomenon which today is celebrated in over two thousand cities and dozens of countries. The holiday takes place each year on June 21st, the day of the Summer Solstice.
Make Music Day made its way across the Atlantic in 2007, with the first American observance in New York City. The New York celebration has now grown to include thousands of musicians who flood the streets every year. By 2014, the Make Music Alliance was established to coordinate celebrations across the United States and today over five thousand free concerts are offered in more than a hundred American cities. The Texas Music Office—the branch of the Governor’s office that awards our Texas Music Friendly Certification—has encouraged Texans to join in this celebration, and this June, Lubbock will respond to that call.
Make Music Day appeals to all levels of musicians and music lovers alike. The goal of the celebration is to fill public spaces with music making. Amateurs and professionals of all genres are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re a songwriter, jazz improvisor, worship leader, country star or rocker, we want to hear you! With all of this in mind, the Lubbock Cultural Arts Foundation, in partnership with the South Plains Mall and Tarpley Music, will host our first ever Make Music Day jam session. The jam session tradition has held a unique place in American culture. From the famed all night jazz jams at Minton’s Playhouse in New York to our very own Sunday Night Jams at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, we couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate music in our community.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and join us on stage for a fun filled afternoon of public music making. There will be a professional backing rhythm section consisting of keyboard, bass, and drums. Are you a songwriter? We’d love to hear your original music. Our backing band can learn your music on the spot, or you can perform solo. Have charts? Even better! Be sure to include them when you register: HERE (registration is not required but will guarantee your spot for the performance).
We are so thankful to the South Plains Mall and Tarpley Music for partnering with us for this joyous event! Join us at the food court on June 21st from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and bring your instrument! Stay tuned to Lubbock Cultural Arts Foundation for more information about our jam session and a comprehensive list of all music performances in Lubbock on Make Music Day.