Preview: DMAC Launch Party

It can't be said that last year's Music Town Hall meeting didn't result in any positive effect on Denton's creative scene. The Denton Music and Arts Collaborative was inspired by attendees who spoke of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians as the type of organization that's needed for Denton musicians in need of medical coverage. On Saturday the 26th, the brainstorming devoted to conceptualizing DMAC has come to fruition with a kickoff party at Dan's Silverleaf.

The DMAC Kickoff Party starts at 4 p.m. with a host of local artists vending their pieces. Music starts at 9 p.m. with performances from Body English, Sunbuzzed, and Brave Combo. Pan Ector Industries will also be on hand to live-print T-shirts.

"Community response has been overwhelmingly positive," said DMAC president Nic Bagherpour. "Denton has always been a community that loves and reveres its musicians and artists. I think that in the past many folks weren't sure of what the best course of action was for supporting the creative class in our community. Now DMAC is offering them an opportunity to provide that support."

DMAC is still building its program strategy, but the organization is already offering information on accessible programs available in the region. Vice President Andy Knapik will be working to make communication easy between artists and DMAC. A pilot program is being developed. The number of recipients that receive benefits will be determined by the amount of funding that is raised.

Any musician or artist that would like to make a personal inquiry can email info@dmacdenton.org.

The launch party is a day to celebrate the possible future, but there's still work to be done.

Outreach Director Danielle Longueville said, "Our next steps will be to continue
reaching out to existing programs and individuals interested in working with DMAC." Volunteer support is needed in various committees being formed. Those interested in helping out can visit their volunteer page.

"We're looking for passionate people with a wide range of skill sets to help us make our vision a reality," said Bagherpour.

Bagherpour spoke of Bach Norwood, a former Denton musician whose insurance couldn't cover the medical funds from a collapse lung. The community came together to help him out, and Dan's Silverleaf ban on indoor smoking was partially inspired by Norwood's story. 

More info on DMAC is available on their website and Facebook page. Any musician or artist that would like to make a personal inquiry can email info@dmacdenton.org. 

Header image courtesy of Brave Combo
Header image layout design by Christopher Rodgers