New Orleans Launches 2026 Music Census Sessions with NEA Grant, Offering Free Music Business Workshops

The City of New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy (O.N.E.) and the nonprofit Ella Project have announced the continuation of the Music Census Sessions for 2026. The series, which began in 2025, is now funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Sessions remain free and open to musicians and industry professionals across Louisiana, offering practical training in areas such as revenue generation, touring, audience development, and media relations.

The Music Census Sessions were created in response to findings from the New Orleans Music Census, which highlighted a need for accessible business education and career development resources for musicians at all stages. The inaugural 2025 series, supported by the City of New Orleans, attracted hundreds of participants statewide and featured local and national experts. Topics covered included music publishing, branding, funding opportunities, and contract negotiation, with an emphasis on actionable advice.

Building on that success, the 2026 program expands the range of topics and deepens the partnership between O.N.E. and the Ella Project. Sessions continue to be free, with a focus on practical skills that musicians can apply immediately. The series is part of O.N.E.’s broader strategy to strengthen the New Orleans music ecosystem through workforce development and industry education.

The first 2026 session began on May 14 and was titled “Working with the Media.” It featured Haley Livaudais, segment producer for WWL-TV Channel 4; Murf Reeves, music director of WWOZ; and Jan Ramsey, founder, publisher and editor‑in‑chief of OffBeat. The workshop addressed media outreach, interview preparation, and content strategy for local and national audiences.

Julia Heath, Policy and Outreach Manager for the Mayor’s Office of Nighttime Economy, said the sessions had “strong attendance, meaningful engagement, and immediate application of the information being shared.” Gene Meneray, co‑founder of the Ella Project, added that the partnership ensures “top‑notch information reaches a wide audience” and that the organization is “thrilled to have support from the Arts Endowment.”

Recordings of past sessions are available for free at www.nolamusiccensus.org/sessions, extending the program’s reach beyond live attendees. The website hosts videos and supplementary materials that musicians can use to supplement their learning. The Ella Project’s legal and business services are also highlighted as resources for participants.

The Music Census Sessions are a key component of O.N.E.’s effort to support New Orleans’ nightlife and cultural economy. By providing education and networking opportunities, the program aims to help musicians build sustainable careers and contribute to the city’s economic vitality.

All sessions remain free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged, and participants can sign up through the official website. The program is scheduled to run throughout 2026, with additional workshops and seminars planned for the remainder of the year.

With NEA grant funding secured, the 2026 Music Census Sessions are poised to continue delivering practical, industry‑relevant training to New Orleans musicians and professionals. The series will maintain its focus on revenue generation, touring, audience development, and media relations, while expanding its reach through online recordings and community partnerships.