Welcome to Music Census Sessions, a free resource for New Orleans music professionals. Designed for folks with all levels of experience, these in-person and virtual workshops, roundtables, and networking events will give you practical tools to build, grow, and sustain your music career.
Born out of the findings of the New Orleans Music Census and countless conversations with our city's music community, the Music Census Sessions initiative addresses the unique challenges and opportunities facing locals in the music industry. By providing access to education, resources, and connections, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of music industry professionals while celebrating and supporting the legacy of those who’ve built New Orleans into the musical powerhouse it is today.
Upcoming Events
Putting the “Business” in Music Business.
Being a creative takes immense time, energy, and focus. Navigating the business side of the music industry can often feel overwhelming, pulling attention away from the music itself. That’s why the New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy and The Ella Project teamed up to create Music Census Sessions —to help shoulder that burden and provide the tools, knowledge, and connections New Orleans music industry professionals need to succeed.
This series is tailored for everyone — from those just stepping into the music industry to veterans who’ve been shaping the New Orleans sound for decades. Each session focuses on actionable music industry and business skills, ensuring that no matter your experience level, you’ll walk away with strategies to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Session Schedule
Block 2: Music Business SustainabilityBuilding a Music Business Marketing Plan
2:00pm - Wednesday, April 2nd 2025
Nora Navra Library – 1902 Saint Bernard Ave.
Speakers: Axel Rosa (South 25 Entertainment), Amy Kirk Duvoisin (WWOZ)
Focus: Learn how to treat your music career like a business by creating a structured plan for growth. This session will cover defining your brand, setting financial and career goals, and developing a roadmap for long-term success.
Touring Tips for Local Musicians: Expanding Beyond New Orleans
2:00pm - Wednesday, April 9th 2025
East New Orleans Regional Library - 5641 Read Blvd.
Speakers: Bo Dollis Jr. (The Wild Magnolias), Eric Johanson (songwriter/musician), Julia Heath (New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy)
Focus: Ready to take your music on the road? This session will provide practical advice on booking shows, budgeting for travel, promoting your tour, and building a fanbase beyond New Orleans.
Maximizing Revenue Streams for Musicians
2:00pm - Wednesday, April 16th 2025
Algiers Regional Library - 3014 Holiday Dr.
Speakers: Deborah Evans (Della Music Publishing), Ashlye Keaton (The Ella Project), Jeremy Kelley (Bon Bon Vivant)
Focus: Diversify your income and make the most of your music career! Explore strategies for earning through digital streaming, sync licensing, live performances, merchandise, crowdfunding, and more.
Music Census Sessions Networking Hang
4:00pm - Thursday, April 17th 2025
R Bar - 1431 Royal St.
Casual gathering to connect, recap on what we learned during Block 2, and chat all-things-New Orleans music.
Block 3 (Summer 2025): Business Expansion & Identifying OpportunitiesCareer Sustainability in the Music Industry
Focus: How to build a sustainable, long-term career in music. Topics will include alternative revenue streams, building a business model, and balancing creative work with financial planning.
Building and Managing Your Music Team
Focus: Learn how to identify, hire, and collaborate with key team members such as managers, booking agents, publicists, and attorneys. Explore strategies for maintaining professional relationships and contracts that support long-term growth.
Leveraging Licensing and Sync Opportunities
Focus: How to get your music placed in TV shows, films, video games, and commercials. Learn the basics of licensing deals, building relationships with music supervisors, and creating music libraries.
Block 4 (September - October 2025): Supporting SuccessHealth & Wellness Resources for Musicians
Focus: Exploring affordable healthcare, mental health resources, and wellness options for musicians in New Orleans. Partner with local organizations such as the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic to offer practical advice and resource access.
Financial Planning for Musicians
Focus: Dive into budgeting, saving, and long-term financial planning for musicians. Includes insights on taxes, retirement savings, and setting financial goals.
Live Sound & Ear Health
Focus: Educate musicians about the importance of hearing protection in high-decibel environments. Topics include an overview of sound, understanding noise-induced hearing loss, selecting appropriate ear protection, and how to maintain ear health over time.
This schedule is subject to change.
Sessions
Archive
Music Census Sessions recordings will be published here at the end of each block.
Music Census Sessions is a partnership between the New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy, The Ella Project, and The New Orleans Public Library to turn insights from the New Orleans Music Census into action.
Questions? Reach out to Julia at julia.heath@nola.gov.
