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In response to the University of Tasmania’s report newly released report identifying the live music industry as a significant contributor to national and state economies, Music SA and the Live Music Office have released the Adelaide Live Music Census, which offers a snapshot of live music activity in May 2015.

Introducing the report, Music SA General Manager Lisa Bishop stated “findings show that 962 gigs were presented during May 2015 in Adelaide and outer suburbs across 157 venues, with Adelaide city providing the bulk of live music offerings.

“It demonstrates the degree to which musicians are given the opportunity to professionally perform and audiences are given an opportunity to access live music.”

Key findings from the Adelaide Live Music Census showed that in May 2015:

• 962 gigs were presented
• 157 venues hosted live music
• Hotels provided 796 gigs across 108 venues (79.9% of gigs and 68.7% of venues)
• There were 17 gigs across three entertainment venues, 39 gigs in eight clubs and 17 gigs in six restaurants
• Gigs were 35% original songs and 65% covers
• Adelaide City provided the most live music
• 11 of the Special Circumstance licenses were hotels

During May 2015, hotels were the most significant venue type, providing 769 gigs across 108 venues, which totals 80% of gigs in Adelaide and 69% of venues.

Commenting on the roles of hotels in hosting live music, Australian Hotels Association General Manager/Chief Executive Ian Horne stated "the census results again reinforce the primary role of South Australian Hotels in supporting and facilitating a sustainable live music industry.” 

As for the overall venue make up, Bishop added "it’s pleasing to note that there are venues showcasing original contemporary music, which made up 35% of the gigs during May.

“The diversity in venues offers a richer audience experience that allows venues to bring their own fundamental character to the night time economy. 

"Everything from The Dunes at the boutique Grace Emily to The Zep Boys at the stalwart Arkaba.”

The information gathered for the 2015 census will provide a valuable benchmark that will be used to compare another census expected to take place in May of 2016. This will demonstrate whether any changes to liquor licensing will have an impact on the live music scene.

Live Music Office Policy Director John Wardle added “I encourage Adelaide residents to have a look at the census findings and see if there’s some live music happening near you.

"There are bands and musicians playing around who are as good as you will find anywhere.” 

This information comes in the wake of South Australian Arts Minister Jack Snelling announcing that in 2014, the live music scene contributed $263.7 million to South Australia’s economy, while nationally the industry brought approximately $15.7 billion to the economy and an estimated 65,000 full and part-time jobs.

Background
In May 2015, Music SA and the Live Music Office undertook a census of live music of licensed premises in greater Adelaide, to take a snapshot of the state of play. Compiled by local DJ Luke Penman of Radio Adelaide and Music SA, data was gathered from venue websites and social media pages, gig guides such as Rip It Up and Live at Your Local. Further information was sourced through word of mouth, working the phones as well as Music SA and industry contacts.

The South Australian Government’s Music Development Office and the National Live Music Office provided financial assistance for the project, which was commissioned by the Music Industry Council (MIC).

This information comes in the wake of South Australian Arts Minister Jack Snelling announcing that in 2014, the live music scene contributed $263.7 million to South Australia’s economy, while nationally the industry brought approximately $15.7 billion to the economy and an estimated 65,000 full and part-time jobs.

Organisations involved
Music SA champions original contemporary music in South Australia. Music SA is a not for profit organisation who have, for the last 18 years, been helping to build a thriving, sustainable and globally-acknowledged music industry in our state.

Music Development Office - The South Australian Government has set up the Music Development Office as a collaborative union of ‘arts’ and ‘industry development’, with strategies in place to support the ongoing development of the contemporary music industry in South Australia.

The Music Industry Council (MIC) is South Australia’s newly formed leading music industry advisory body. Comprising key music industry stakeholders, MIC was established in 2014 as a direct response to recommendations within the South Australian Government’s Thinker in Residence, Martin Elbourne’s final report into 'The Future of Live Music in SA'. MIC membership comprises high level key music industry participants including venues, agents, performers and producers as well as state and local government representatives.

The Live Music Office works to increase opportunities for live music in Australia by identifying and advocating for better policy, regulation and strategy. Established by the Federal Government, in partnership with APRA AMCOS, the Live Music Office was set up to review the impact of policy frameworks on the Australian live music sector. Its scope includes planning, licensing and regulatory policies, as well as cultural, audience and market development strategies.

Click here to download the Adelaide Live Music Census 2015.

Lower image show the Adelaide Guitar Festival.

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17th July 2015 - ADELAIDE SEEKS RECOGNITION AS AN INTERNATIONAL MUSIC CITY

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24th November 2013 - ADELAIDE MUSIC REPORT CALLS FOR EDUCATION AND AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

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