What Is The Washington State Music Census?

The Washington State Music Census is designed to gain a clearer understanding of the current needs of Washington State’s music ecosystem and industry. This Census will collect crucial information about our local music economy to help the State and community make better-informed, data-driven decisions to support the music ecosystem. The Census will open on December 16, 2024, and will accept responses for six weeks! We are asking everyone over the age of 18, who identifies as part of Washington’s music industry to participate and spread the word!

 

THE WHY:

In an unprecedented effort, WANMA has partnered with the Washington State Department of Commerce and the City of Seattle to gather data on the vast and diverse music ecosystem across the state. This comprehensive study aims to measure the economic, cultural, and social impact of music in Washington while identifying the needs and opportunities for growth within the industry.

Key Objectives of the Washington State Music Census:

  • Economic Impact: Understand music’s contribution to Washington’s economy through job creation, tourism, and local business growth.
  • Equity and Inclusion: Highlight barriers to entry and opportunities to improve access for underrepresented groups in the music industry.
  • Community Needs: Identify gaps in infrastructure, funding, and support for musicians, venues, and other industry stakeholders.
  • Policy Development: Provide actionable insights for policymakers to sustain and grow Washington’s music sector.

 

THE WHO:

This survey is for anyone who identifies as part of music industry in Washington State.

You should take this survey if you:

  • Earn any income from a music-related venture or music-related employment.
  • Are a recording, composing, or performing musical artist generating income.
  • Teach music (at any level or age group).
  • Own or operate a business that hosts live music—ranging from concert halls to venues offering occasional live music programming, like bars or restaurants.
  • Own or manage any commercial music business, such as:
    • Recording studios
    • Record labels
    • Music retailers
    • Instrument/gear makers or repair shops
    • Professional support services (managers, agents, lawyers, etc.)
    • Distribution, marketing, or creative support services (video, photography, graphic design, etc.).

 

THE WHAT:

Before starting, have your financial information from 2019 and 2023 ready, including details about:

  • Your location,
  • The number of shows you performed or presented,
  • The income generated from your performances or music-related business activities.

 

THE RESULTS:

We will be presenting the Washington State Music Census results and findings at the Cascadia Music Summit happening in King County in April alongside similar census findings from Oregon, Alaska, and Idaho.  The four states sharing this level of data will help make the region’s music economy stronger as well as on a state-by-state-level.

 

WHAT’S NEXT:

Once you’ve completed the survey, please share the census link via your social channels and encourage all your Washington-based professional music peers to do the same by January 31st, 2025.

You can find pre-made social media and newsletter materials HERE to make it easy to spread the word and boost participation.

Thank you for contributing to this important effort to make Washington a place where music businesses and professionals can truly thrive. Together, we can ensure a stronger, more vibrant future for our music community.

TAKE THE CENSUS