We believe that music is at the center of what it means to be alive.

Photo: Hotel Cafe, Los Angeles, CA

Our Mission

Welcome to Live Music Society! Our mission is to recognize and protect small venues and listening rooms across the United States so that live music can remain accessible to all.

Our love for music runs deep, and we understand the vital role that small venues play in nurturing emerging talent and creating unforgettable experiences. That's why we work to support those that provide a platform for artists to connect with audiences and develop their craft. 

We're committed to promoting best practices and innovations that enhance the live music experience for everyone involved. So, whether you're a musician, a venue owner, or a music lover, you play an important role in the music ecosystem. Together, we can create a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving live music scene that benefits us all. 

What is Live Music Society?

Since its inception in 2020, Live Music Society has impacted 155 small music venues across the US. Hear from our grantees, board members, and staff to learn more about our organization.

Our Story

We are a nonprofit foundation dedicated to championing smaller music venues and listening rooms. These creative spaces are where musicians hone their skills, build their fan base, and develop into the artists we know and love. They offer an intimate experience between performer and audience that cannot be replicated by any other platform. However, despite their importance, small venues often struggle to receive the recognition and support they need, especially during economic downturns and times of crisis. 

In 2020, just weeks after the founding of Live Music Society, the Covid-19 pandemic struck, shutting down live music performances and putting countless small venues at risk of permanent closure. We responded by providing crucial grants to help venues survive and welcome performers and audiences back to their stages as soon as it was safe to do so. 

This year, we renewed our efforts to highlight the unique contributions of small venues to an inclusive music culture by supporting creative ideas and innovation with our Music in Action and Toolbox grants. We believe that live music is a vital force that brings people together, fosters creativity, and enriches our lives. Join us in our mission to protect and preserve the magic of live music for generations to come!

Testimonials

American Road Trip: Music in Action at Cole’s Bar
Travel with us to Cole’s Bar in Chicago, IL for a deep dive on their Open Jam, a biweekly jam session bringing local artists together. It’s a chance for up-and-coming musicians to hit the stage, collaborate, and try something new in a welcoming, creative space. See how this Music in Action project is giving artists opportunities to grow and keeping Chicago’s music scene thriving.

OUR BOARD


OUR STAFF

Cat Henry
Executive Director

Sarah McCauley
Program Manager

Valerie Salerno
Research Associate and Community Ambassador