Local musicians in Vermont face significant challenges in booking shows, exacerbated by predatory insurance practices and a post-pandemic audience that often opts against buying advance tickets. This trend leads venues to avoid less established acts and focus on well-known artists, limiting opportunities for local talent.

Furthermore, artists frequently bear the burden of promoting their own performances and now face a growing trend of venues taking a cut from their merchandise sales. Despite these obstacles, efforts are being made to support local musicians. Seth Soloway, executive director of Spruce Peak Arts in Stowe, and local singer-songwriter Troy Millette are pioneering initiatives to create a more inclusive music scene. Their collaboration includes the Spruce Peak Unplugged series, which pairs local artists with national touring talent. The series launches on October 12, featuring Deer Tick with Millette opening.

Soloway is committed to elevating Spruce Peak while also integrating the local music community, aiming to foster relationships between aspiring musicians. Millette echoes these sentiments, noting that Spruce Peak has historically been seen as disconnected from the Vermont music scene but is now actively changing that narrative. Upcoming highlights in the series include Dar Williams and Big Head Todd and the Monsters.

The successful Homegrown in Vermont Music Festival, showcasing local talent, has encouraged Soloway and Millette to commit to annual events that enrich the music ecosystem in Vermont. Soloway’s vision is to create a thriving scene where local artists and venues can flourish together. For more information on the Spruce Peak Unplugged series, visit sprucepeakarts.org.