March 18, 2025 | From City of New Orleans
Empowering New Orleans Musicians: Music Census Sessions Continue with Business Sustainability Workshops
The Music Census Sessions, a free professional development series for New Orleans musicians, continues with Block 2: Business Sustainability, focusing on key business skills that help artists build long-term success. The upcoming workshops will be presented by New Orleans music industry professionals including Axel Rosa (South 25 Entertainment), Amy Kirk Duvoisin (WWOZ), Bo Dollis Jr. (The Wild Magnolias), Eric Johanson (songwriter/musician), Julia Heath (Mayor’s Office of Nighttime Economy), Deborah Evans (Della Music Publishing), Ashlye Keaton (The Ella Project), and Jeremy Kelley (Bon Bon Vivant).
Created in response to the findings of the New Orleans Music Census, this program focuses on equipping local musicians and music professionals with actionable business and industry skills to build, grow, and sustain their careers. In-person sessions will also feature virtual options when available, making this resource accessible to a wider audience.
Presented by the City of New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy, The Ella Project, and the New Orleans Public Library, this next round of workshops will give musicians the tools they need to structure their careers, expand opportunities, and increase financial sustainability.
📅 Upcoming Sessions:
- April 2: Building a Music Business Marketing Plan – Learn how to create a structured plan to grow and sustain your career. Register here
- April 9: Touring Tips for Local Musicians – Practical advice on booking, budgeting, and promoting shows beyond New Orleans. Register here
- April 16: Maximizing Revenue Streams – Explore ways to earn income through streaming, licensing, merchandise, and more. Register here
- April 17: Networking Happy Hour at R Bar
The first block of Music Census Sessions, held in January, focused on the fundamentals of the music business. Workshops covered social media marketing, funding opportunities, and protecting intellectual property, providing musicians with essential skills to strengthen their careers. The series concluded with a networking happy hour, where attendees connected with industry professionals, shared ideas, and built new collaborations.
All sessions are free and open to musicians of all experience levels, with in-person and virtual options when available.
How to Participate
The Next Music Census Session is Wednesday April 2, and registration is now open. For more information on session topics, schedules, and virtual access options, visit www.nolamusiccensus.org/sessions.
About the Partners
The New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy works to enhance the city’s nighttime economy while supporting local artists, cultural bearers, and industry professionals. The Ella Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering New Orleans’ cultural community through legal assistance, advocacy, and professional development. The New Orleans Public Library provides free resources, programs, and spaces that foster lifelong learning, creativity, and community connection for all residents of New Orleans.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Julia Heath, julia.heath@nola.gov