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Tulsa, Okla. – The Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts & Culture (Tulsa FMAC) announced its 2021 Play Tulsa Music program today, a $100,000 fund designed to drive Tulsa area venues’ hiring of local musicians for live performances throughout July, August, and September.
Play Tulsa Music was originally created and launched in September 2020 as a recovery effort supported with Tulsa County CARES Act funding, with $190,000O distributed to 26 venues in Tulsa County, helping to support 700+ local, live performances. The funding went directly to performing musicians, as well as tech positions supporting live music performances.
The 2021 program is presented by Scissortail Wealth Management and supported by community partners Leigh and John Reaves, Clifford Power Systems, the Cherokee Nation Film Office, Magellan Midstream Partners, Ken Clifford, and Commercial Risk Services.
Providing an economic boost to Tulsa’s live music scene
“Our goal remains the same this year: provide an economic boost to our music ecosystem and support these creative businesses,” said Abby Kurin, executive director of Tulsa FMAC. “Tulsa is a music city, and prior to the pandemic this industry represented 4,400 jobs. While some venues received assistance through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, this funding will pass through the venues and go directly to our local musicians and tech positions for their work. It’s imperative that we continue to support our music scene and this program is specifically designed to do that.”
“Play Tulsa Music bridges two key passions for us at Scissortail Wealth Management,” said Todd Welsh, founder and senior partner of Scissortail Wealth Management, presenting sponsor of Play Tulsa Music. “We’re advocates of the Tulsa music scene and our company is dedicated to making Tulsa a better place for all. After a tough year, we want to be a part of continuing to help live music return for our community.”
“Thanks to privately raised funds, Play Tulsa Music continues in 2021,” says Ray Hoyt, president of Tulsa Regional Tourism. “According to the Tulsa Music Strategy we released in February, the music industry has an annual economic impact of $335 million on Tulsa’s economy. Locals and visitors alike are ready for more live music and this program props up this vibrant pillar of Tulsa’s culture.”
Accepting applications until the end of September
Play Tulsa Music funds must be used exclusively to offset 50% of a musician/band performance and/or tech fee incurred between July 1 and September 30, 2021. Eligible venues include dedicated music venues, restaurants, bars, attractions, and hotels.
Applications must be directly submitted by the venue, but organizations, musicians, booking agencies, etc., are encouraged to collaborate with Tulsa area venues to create live performance opportunities utilizing Tulsa-based musicians.
Eligible venues can apply for funding at https://playtulsamusic.com/apply
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