The Vermont music scene has faced significant challenges with the closure of venues and festivals, but efforts are underway to revitalize local music. Seth Soloway, the executive director of Spruce Peak Arts in Stowe, has emerged as a key figure in this effort. Since joining the nonprofit two years ago, he has championed local artists through initiatives like the Spruce Peak Unplugged series, featuring renowned touring acts paired with local performers.

Soloway’s commitment to supporting Vermont musicians culminates in the second annual Homegrown in Vermont Music Festival on August 23. Upon discovering funds allocated for local talent that had previously gone unused, he launched a festival to spotlight local artists. Collaborators Troy Millette and Ryan Miller, frontman of Guster, have helped shape the festival, emphasizing the need for a platform amid recent losses in the music community.

Miller, who is deeply invested in Vermont’s culture, plans to lead the festival with a unique tribute to The Kinks rather than perform solo or with Guster, which reflects his dedication to showcasing local talent. The lineup includes other Vermont acts such as Millette and Billy Wylder.

Soloway has successfully raised significant funds for the festival, demonstrating strong community interest in supporting local musicians, especially as the landscape becomes increasingly precarious for live performances. There’s a collective hope that this festival can serve as a unifying force for Vermont’s music community.

In further developments, the Burlington music venue ArtsRiot has rebranded to District VT, aiming to rebuild its reputation as a space for local artists after facing past criticisms regarding management. This revitalization represents a necessary step toward reclaiming a vibrant music culture in Vermont. Tickets for the festival went on sale on May 29th.