Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DMV Music Stakeholders?

Current mission statement: The DC Music Stakeholder Coalition is a group of advocates and DC music community leaders who have met weekly for the past three years to share resources, build community solidarity, and propose policies to help our vibrant communities survive and thrive throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Our advocacy coalition, which has grown to over 300 members, represents artists, managers, agencies, producers, art collectives, cultural non-profits, festivals, music educators, recording studios and venues. These individuals and entities represent every ward and nearly every major musical community in the DMV.

What parts of the DMV do you serve?

The Stakeholders serve the music communities from Baltimore to Richmond and the District.

Are you a 501 c3?

The Stakeholders is not a 501 c 3 organization. We are a coalition and can better serve the music community in this capacity by being able to freely champion our initiatives with city, state, locate and federal agencies.

What are your initiatives?
  • Music Directory – A repository of musical resources in the DMV
  • Harmonious Living Act – Supporting venues with noise ordinances.
  • Affordable Housing – Creating affordable spaces for artists to live and work.
  • Living Wage for Artists – Creating a standard and livable wage for artists across the DMV
Who can join the Stakeholder’s group?

Our group consists of artists, managers, agencies, producers, art collectives, cultural non-profits, festivals, music educators, recording studios, and venues. We welcome music industry suppliers (i.e., lighting, sound, music retailers) to join our group as well.

Is there a cost to join the group?

There is no cost to participate in the group. However, donations of time, resources and sponsorships are welcomed.

How is the DMV Music Stakeholders affiliated with the DC Music Summit?

After the departure of the group’s founders, Aaron Myers and Chris Naoum, Dior Ashley Brown (DC Music Summit), with the assistance of Stacey Williams (Jazz Cat Herder), took over the leadership of the group. The DC Music Summit provides administrative support for the group.

When and how often do you meet?

The Stakeholders meet twice a month, (on a Monday at 1PM EST), via teams. We also host events in which our members can meet and support each other’s work. If you’d like to join the calls and be on our mailing list, please email Stacey or Dior at DMVmusic@dcmusicsummit.org.

How can I contact you or find out more about what you do?

You can check out this website or reach us via email: DMVmusic@dcmusicsummit.org

What can I do to help?

Tell us what’s important to you and what you need as a part of this community. Let us know if there are concerns regarding questionable treatment and practices in getting gigs and services.

Volunteer your time and expertise to help us create an organization that is beneficial to you!