Struggling Regional Music Venues Face Burnout Amid Industry Challenges
Amid the challenges confronting the music industry, regional live music venues in Australia are grappling with significant hurdles that are pushing operators to their limits. These small venues play a crucial role in fostering vibrant music cultures within their communities, but they are now facing personal and financial strains.
A recent study conducted by the University of South Australia sheds light on the immense stress and burnout experienced by operators of regional live music venues. The research reveals that these operators are struggling with issues related to audience accessibility and ensuring fair compensation for performing artists. The findings, published in the journal Popular Music and Society, underscore the dire situation faced by these venues.
Over the past four years, Australia has witnessed the closure of more than 1300 live music venues and stages, a trend largely attributed to soaring public liability costs, escalating rent prices, and increasing energy expenses. The financial impact of these closures has been exacerbated by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which has led to a decline in ticket sales and bar revenue as audience spending patterns shift.
While mainstream media often highlights the closure of major metropolitan music venues, the plight of smaller live music establishments in rural areas tends to receive less attention. Dr. Rosie Roberts, the lead researcher from the University of South Australia, along with Dr. Sam Whiting from RMIT University, conducted interviews with nearly a dozen venue operators in regional South Australia. Their research informed the State Government’s Live Music Support Package, emphasizing the critical need to address the challenges faced by these venues.
According to Dr. Roberts, many regional venue operators dedicate significant time and effort, often on a voluntary basis, to sustain the music culture in their communities. Despite their passion and commitment, these operators find themselves at the brink of burnout, with limited financial returns. The study reveals a cycle of exhaustion, with operators often prioritizing artist payments over their own compensation, leading to operational challenges and potential closures.
Regional live music venues encounter unique obstacles due to smaller resident populations, which impact the size of bands that can perform, the frequency of shows, and the financial resources available for artist fees. Additionally, factors such as travel costs and accessibility further compound the challenges faced by these venues.
While urban music venues primarily grapple with regulatory issues like licensing and noise restrictions, regional venues confront distinct challenges related to attracting high-quality acts that can draw audiences and sustain the financial viability of live performances. Dr. Roberts advocates for tailored solutions such as localized music strategies, forums to facilitate dialogue between urban policymakers and regional stakeholders, and the establishment of regional live music policies.
The study underscores the importance of supporting regional live music venues as vital community spaces that foster social connections, cultural development, and artistic growth. Dr. Roberts emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions to ensure the longevity and vibrancy of regional music scenes, recognizing the pivotal role these venues play in nurturing emerging talent and enriching local communities.