In independent music and the fine arts, the term patron is often thrown around casually; everyone seems to know what it means and why patrons are important. We forget that this is not always understood by others!
And “being a patron” to something in the general sense (i.e. the arts) can be different from being a patron to a particular artist or project.
Wisconsin Music Ventures is building itself from the ground up, based on the support of local individuals and businesses who strongly believe in what we do – and as a result wish to support that financially with a monthly contribution. That contribution can be anything from $10 a month to $100 – and of course, we’ll accept more. The more you give, the more “patron rewards” you receive.
Patreon is a very popular site for developing patron programs… While I’ve chosen to not use that specific service, my goal is essentially the same: if you also feel strongly about promoting a variety of Wisconsin musicians in inspiring local destinations, at which the performances are free and open to the public, please consider joining #TeamWMV.
Music education will always remain at the heart of WMV, as well. I am a private instructor, and have been for over a decade. I’m currently looking for middle and high school teachers who might like to join with me in a group I’ll call the WMV “Edventurers.” We can do some brainstorming, connect with school programs, and introduce WMV to your students. It will require very little time; just some expertise and maybe a few connections. Please let me know if you or someone you know might have interest in this!
Do you believe in the power of a grass roots music education? Something that can supplement the amazingness that’s already happening in music classrooms and/or private lessons, may give off a bit of an exclusive, special-feeling vibe, and give youths a real-world, local connection to the music they’re hearing?
If you think these concepts may be right up your alley, please consider a monthly patronage. It would mean all the world to me, as well as to the musicians and students you would then be encouraging, if you are supporting a program such as Wisconsin Music Ventures.
Thank you for taking the time to read this!
-Allison