Melbourne has claimed the Live Music Capital of Australia title following a live music census.
Music Victoria City of Melbourne
Statistics found there were at leats 460 live music venues in Melbourne and that live music contributes more than $1 billion per annum to Victoria’s economy.
On a typical Saturday night in Melbourne, 97,000 patrons attend a live music venue to see 900 musicians and 740 DJs perform. 2,730 staff are employed every Saturday in Melbourne’s live music venues.
“This is the largest survey of its type carried out in Victoria,” said Music Victoria CEO, Patrick Donovan, who said the organisation planned to complete the regional component of the census later this year. “It captures the most accurate snapshot of what our world-renowned industry looks like. This is the industry that Music Victoria proudly represents and if you’re passionate about this industry and want to support it, become a Music Victoria member during our Jump On The Bandwagon membership drive.”
“This report pieces together all the components which make Melbourne a world renowned music city,” added Chair of City of Melbourne Arts Portfolio Councillor, Rohan Leppert. “Melburnians have always loved their music scene, but now our understanding of that audience and our music scene is better than ever. From the live music venues, to the artists, musicians, producers and punters; Melbourne’s thriving music scene is thanks to all of you.”
“We look forward to continuing work with Music Victoria, and the industry, to ensure Melbourne’s music scene is supported and continues to grow.”
Project organiser, Dobe Newton, added: “Being involved in this unique project with the future leaders of our industry was an exciting and rewarding experience,” he said. “Their hard work has confirmed Melbourne as one of the world’s great music cities. The data collected will be invaluable in helping to promote and protect this wonderful cultural asset and the jobs and joy it creates.”
