What's Happening?
The VOX (Venue Operations and eXperience) Workforce Development Program, in collaboration with Inherit the Music and the National Independent Venue Foundation, is making significant strides in connecting young people with careers in the live music industry
across Tennessee. The program has facilitated paid internships for 26 participants at 13 independent venues statewide, with 60% of Tennessee participants securing job opportunities within a year. Nationally, 87% of VOX participants have found employment as a direct result of the initiative. The program aims to create accessible pathways into the live music industry by providing hands-on training, mentorship, and paid work experience, particularly for students and emerging professionals from historically underserved communities. Supported by a $33,000 grant match from Inherit the Music, the initiative has unlocked $300,000 to support workforce training and internships.
Why It's Important?
The VOX program addresses a critical barrier to entry in the music industry: opportunity. By providing mentorship and paid experience, the program not only equips participants with essential skills but also helps them build sustainable careers. This initiative is particularly significant for historically underserved communities, offering them a chance to break into an industry that can be difficult to access. The success of the program, with a high percentage of participants securing employment, demonstrates its effectiveness and potential as a model for similar initiatives nationwide. The program's expansion to include more venues and specialized training further enhances its impact, contributing to the growth and diversity of the live music industry in Tennessee.
What's Next?
The 2026 cohort of the VOX program will expand to include additional venues such as 3rd & Lindsley, The East Room, and others. Participants will also engage in specialized improv-based training at Third Coast Comedy Club, focusing on communication and adaptability in live event environments. This expansion not only increases the number of opportunities available but also enriches the training experience, preparing participants for a wider range of roles within the industry. As the program continues to grow, it is likely to attract more support and funding, potentially leading to further expansion and increased impact.
