Valley’s Lack of Support for Local Music is Saddening

published as a Letter to the Editor in The Daily Item, June 2008, www.dailyitem.com

Over the past month, I had tirelessly promoted a local “rock show” held right here in the Susquehanna Valley. And this wasn’t just any rock show – it showcased three popular bands from Northeast Pa.: the newly signed Drama Club along with opening acts Ashfall and Ajar.

I posted flyers, promoted on the internet, informed family, friends, and friends of friends to build excitement for this spectacular show, only to be disappointed and heart broken when hardly anyone showed up. Those few friends, family and new fans that did show up to support local original music witnessed one heck of a show.

This has not been the only show I’ve been to this year in the central Susquehanna Valley that hasn’t had more than a mediocre turnout. This shows a lack of support for original music in this area. The Drama Club may not have had a number one hit yet but that is no reason not to come see what they, or any other artist, have to offer. I’ve seen them and other bands in the Northeast Pa. area and the venues were so full I could barely even navigate through the crowd!

This all leads me to the issue at hand: Do we want Central Pa. to be looked upon as a dry and boring area to play? Or do we want to be respected as open-minded supporters of new and local original music? Do we want to be always complaining how there is “nothing to do” in this area or do we want to have fairly cheap quality entertainment close to home?

Supporting local music is cheaper, much more intimate and fulfilling. Put your judgments aside and try something new. I am calling on all of Central Pa. to make this an area for local bands and artists to showcase their music. The venues and bars in this area have welcomed numerous bands and artists of all genres with open arms, but will you?