Washington, DC— Future of Music Coalition (FMC) is thrilled to announce the inaugural Future of Music Coalition Honors, to be held Monday, October 28, 2013 at The Hamilton Live in Washington, DC. For thirteen years, FMC has worked to promote collaboration between artists and other stakeholders whose passion and dedication help shape the future of the music community. This one-of-a-kind event highlights three categories of leaders who have demonstrated consistent commitment to music and social change.

Future of Music Coalition Honors

Monday, October 28, 2013 6PM

The Hamilton LIVE

600 14th Street, N.W.

Washington, DC 20005
 http://futureofmusic.org/events/fmchonors


“Washington is well-known for its dinner events and cocktail gatherings, but the Future of Music Honors is going to be something really special and unique,” said Casey Rae, FMC Interim Executive Director. “First off, there’s the caliber of the honorees. Then there’s the live performances, which brings home what this is all about: a genuine experience celebrating music and those who help sustain it.”

“The Future of Music Coalition Honors program celebrates those who have made a meaningful impact in the music community, so often doing this work without any expectation of accolades. We are delighted to honor these musicians, artist advocates and policymakers who have contributed positively to artists and their communities,” said FMC co-founder and Board President, Michael Bracy.

Legendary guitarist and songwriter Wayne Kramer and his all-star friends will bring a raucous energy to the occasion with musical performances. And yes, dinner will be served.

Honorees have demonstrated their commitment to ensuring a healthy and diverse music ecosystem that rewards creators and fans.

The following honorees will be celebrated at the “dress to express” event on October 28, 2013:

Voice of Social Change
Wayne Kramer, MC5, Co-Founder, Jail Guitar Doors USA 

A true music legend, Wayne Kramer is much more than a widely respected sonic innovator, composer and performer. He is also a devoted activist who has channeled his personal journey into a commitment to social change spanning decades. Guided by a deep belief in the power of personal transformation through music, Wayne’s work with the incarcerated through the nonprofit Jail Guitar Doors serves as an inspiration for artists everywhere to use their platforms to make a real difference. Future of Music Honors is thrilled to recognize Wayne’s founding role and ongoing leadership in Jail Guitar Doors USA, as well as his lifelong commitment to creative expression.

Voices of Policy
Sen. John McCain, Sen. Maria Cantwell, Rep. Mike Doyle, Rep. Lee Terry

Four Congressional leaders fought for nearly a decade to eliminate government restrictions limiting the availability of true community radio in towns and cities across the country. Through their tireless commitment to a diversity of expression on the American airwaves, these legislative champions pushed for and helped pass the Local Community Radio Act of 2010, which empowers the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to issue thousands of new licenses to low power FM radio broadcasters in markets where quality local radio has long been absent. This fall, the FCC makes this once-in-a-generation a reality for community groups to apply for licenses and bring “live and local” back to the dial. Future of Music Honors celebrates these Congressional heroes for providing an exemplary example of nonpartisan, fact-based policymaking that will positively impact local cultural communities. Their willingness to consider the perspectives of musicians and other local radio supporters and enthusiasts proves that real change can happen when cultural ambassadors have a seat at the table.

Voices of Advocacy
Ann Chaitovitz, Hal Ponder, Patricia Polach, John Simson

Voices of Advocacy honorees have devoted their careers to serving the music community, working towards solutions and building bridges in the often-bumpy transition from an analog to a largely digital music industry. Through consistent engagement and boundless expertise, these champions have advanced the artists’ cause in some of the most complex and contentious policy debates of the millennium. For decades, our honorees have pushed tirelessly for the equitable treatment of creators and the need for those involved in the music industry’s ongoing evolution to take the experiences of musicians and composers into account. From sustainable business models for musicians to creators’ rights to the ability to more easily travel with instruments, these advocates continue to make a difference in the lives of musical artists from every background and discipline.

Join big names of the music industry as FMC Honors presents a unique schedule of talent performances. For more entertainment information and to purchase your ticket, please visit www.futureofmusic.org.

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Supporting the Future of Music Coalition Honors is synonymous with supporting artist engagement in the issues that impact them. Reserve your table and demonstrate your commitment to making the future a bright one for musicians and the music community. Sponsored tables and packages are available ranging from $1,000 to $20,000. To ensure your premium placement at this event through sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kathy Bradley at (703) 556-7173 or at kbradley [at] wearecoulter [dot] com. For more information about the Future of Music Coalition, please visit www.futureofmusic.org.