Celebrate Make Music Day with Mayor John Whitmire and Houston's Vibrant Music Community
Jo-Carolyn Goode | 6/12/2024, 4:38 p.m.
Mayor John Whitmire is thrilled to invite all Houstonians to participate in the annual Make Music Day (MMD), a joyous celebration of music that coincides with the first day of summer. This year’s festivities will take place on Friday, June 21st, offering a unique opportunity for residents of all musical abilities to join in a citywide symphony.
"The City of Houston is proud to be part of the international roster for Make Music Day," said Necole S. Irvin, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA). "I invite all Houstonians to join us in bringing music to our neighborhoods, offices, and communities on this special day."
Make Music Day, known globally as Fête de la Musique, began in France in 1982 and has since expanded to over 1,000 cities across 120 countries. The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the French Consulate, has been instrumental in bringing this vibrant celebration to Houston. The city’s Consular Corps continues to play a significant role in fostering this global cultural exchange.
"The Consulate General of France is delighted to support Make Music Day in the City of Houston," said Valerie Baraban, Consul General of France in Houston. "This event epitomizes the cultural exchange and creative spirit that music fosters. We extend our warmest wishes to all participants as they unite to create music and strengthen community bonds."
MOCA has shown steadfast support for Houston’s music industry and is thrilled to partner with Downtown Houston+ and the Houston Professional Musicians’ Association (HPMA) for this year’s event. Downtown Houston+ will host the Houston kickoff at Market Square Park, offering a perfect venue for the day’s musical festivities.
"We are excited and honored for Market Square Park to host the Houston kickoff of Make Music Day," said Kristopher Larson, President and CEO of Downtown Houston+. "We invite everyone to join in this global, daylong, free public event celebrating the musician in each of us as we experience the joy of live music in harmony with cities around the world."
The HPMA, a key partner for the fourth consecutive year, will fund performances through its Music Performance Trust Fund Allotment, ensuring that local musicians are compensated fairly for their talents. "The Houston Professional Musicians’ Association is proud to partner with the City of Houston and MOCA in celebrating Make Music Day," said Alex Navarro, President of HPMA. "We are committed to representing, protecting, and bargaining for our city’s musical talent. Musicians interested in being paid a fair wage for their performance on June 21st should contact our HPMA office to apply."
Join Mayor Whitmire, the Consular Corps, Cultural Districts, and many more in celebrating Make Music Day. Experience the diverse sounds of Houston and the collective joy of live music. For more details on the event's programming and how to participate, stay tuned to official city channels and local media.
Make Music Houston programming currently includes a variety of performances and activities spread throughout the city. Whether you're an amateur musician or a seasoned performer, there's a place for everyone in this citywide celebration. Come out and be part of this global musical movement!
For more information on Make Music Day in Houston, visit the official website and follow the event on social media for updates and announcements.
Enjoy
Kick-Off Ceremony -- A series of performances are scheduled at Market Square after a few words from City Officials, the French Consular General and Downtown Houston+ leadership to kick-off Make Music Day across Houston.
- Consulado General de México – Performances begin with Chikawa Conroe Dance in the consulate’s art gallery on the third floor, 3200 Rogerdale Road, 77042.
- Cultural Districts -- Houston’s seven designated Cultural Arts Districts will participate in activating community facilities and spaces with live music and collaborations among musicians.
- East End Cultural District On June 21st, Los de Siempre, the band of Dynamo supporters from El Batallon and other musicians perform at the Esplanade on Navigation.
- Arts District Houston hosts several performances at their network of studios in and around Sawyer Yards—Sabine Street, Spring Street, Winter Street, The Silos and Silver Street Studios.
- Mass Appeal – People of all ages and skill levels will join both online and in-person settings to make music in large, single-instrument groups.
On June 21st, MOCA invites residents and visitors to post photos of MMD events using #makemusichou #mmdhou and tagging @houstonmoca. All events are free and open to the public. For a full schedule of events, visit MakeMusicDay.org/Houston.
Participate
Online registration is open for local musicians and venues. The website provides a platform for locations and venues to match with musicians for Make Music Houston. Create a profile to get the matchmaking started and events on the calendar! To add an event or register to perform, please visit MakeMusicDay.org/Houston.
MOCA also provides support for musicians and the music industry with the Houston Music Advisory Board. For more information, visit Houston-Music.live.