Local body rap-team releases music policy

Two candidates for the Hagley-Ferrymead Ward in the upcoming local body elections are campaigning for a council that better reflects the musical strength and diversity within our city. Yani Johanson, current councillor who is running for re-election, and James Dann, a candidate for community board, believe that better engagement with the local music community can make the city a safer, more vibrant and more exciting place to live and play. The two recently made a music video and rap to back their campaign, and if elected, they aim to work with council to make Christchurch the most music friendly city in the country.

Policies:
Central City All-Ages performance and practice space
The all-ages (under 18) music scene is a vital part of the local music community, but it is also one that is dependent on funding from a variety of sources. The council should encourage and nurture this music scene by providing a space in the central city where Christchurch teenagers and young adults can come to meet up, practice and perform music. Music can provide a sense of inclusiveness and belonging that some young people don’t find in their other social spheres, such as school or sports teams. For many young people, being able to rent their own practice space is a cost they cannot afford. Since the earthquake, many of the low-rent practice spaces around town have been damaged or destroyed; as they don’t generate significant revenue, they may be the last thing that gets fixed.

Local music advisor within Council
We support the establishment of a local music advisor position within the council. The council currently has a number of advisory positions, such as arts, recreation and youth - but no music advisor. We imagine that this advisor would work as a liaison between the local music scene and the council. They could provide musicians with advice about how to stage an event on council land, or how to seek funding. If the council was organising an event, the advisor could suggest local musicians that might complement the bill, or they could provide contacts for businesses that might be looking for entertainment.

Increase the number of central city residents
A vibrant music scene needs bands and bars and musicians, but more than anything, it needs people. One great by-product of having more people living within the four avenues would be the positive effect it would have on music venues in the central city. We believe that council should have a strong role in not only attracting people to live in the central city, but housing them as well. The strength and viability of Christchurch’s music scene is dependent on the support it gets from concert goers, and by increasing the number of people within a short distance of our venues, we can ensure that our city remains a creative musical hub.

“Christchurch has produced great musical talent for years and years - but so often the talent has to leave town to make it. We want to nurture our talent, not export it” says Dann.

ENDS

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