Small City, Big Scene: Independent Music in Portland, a Discussion

On July 9, Metro Council President and music aficionado David Bragdon a moderates discussion with four independent Portland musicians: Dave Allen, Rachel Blumberg, Jared Mees and Laura Veirs. These musicians will discuss factors that contribute to the success of Portland’s independent music scene, the ever-changing landscape of the music industry and music distribution, and why we should care about sustaining independent music in Portland.

In the world of music, Portland is a small market between Seattle and L.A. But in marching to its own drummer, Portland has become a Mecca for the independent music scene. In 2007, Slate Magazine dubbed Portland “America’s indie rock theme park” and credited the start of Portland’s independent music scene to musician Elliot Smith and later, indie rock band Sleater-Kinney. Today, musicians from Modest Mouse, The Shins and The Decemberists all call Portland home.

Arrive at 11:30 to enjoy the jazz and electronic fusion sound of Boy Eats Drum Machine — Portland singer, producer, songwriter, visual artist and multi-instrumentalist Jon Ragel.

Purchase tickets at www.pdxcityclub.org or call 503-228-7231 x110.

Where: The Governor Hotel, 614 SW 11th Ave., Portland OR 97205

When: Doors open at 11:30 AM, Program begins at 12:15 PM and concludes at 1:15 PM

Transportation and parking: The Governor Hotel is accessible by bus, Portland Streetcar and MAX light rail. A SmartPark garage is located one block away from the Governor Hotel at 730 S.W. 10th Ave.

Cost: Luncheon tickets are $16 for City Club members and up to two guests, $20 for nonmembers. Limited coffee/tea table tickets are $5 and are available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis. General seating is free for members and $5 for nonmembers. A limited number of $5 coffee/tea tickets are available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reservations: Reservations required for lunches only; reservations close at 2 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the event. Reservations for lunch are strongly encouraged. To reserve a lunch via telephone, individuals (members and non-members) should call our voice mail reservation line, 503-228-7231, ext. 110. A limited number of lunch tickets are generally available at the door. Luncheon tickets reserved after the 2:00 PM Wednesday deadline or purchased at the door will be subject to an additional $4 charge. General seating and coffee/tea tickets will be available at the door.

The generous financial support from corporate sponsors makes City Club’s time-honored luncheons possible. If your company or firm would like to be a Friday Forum sponsor, please contact City Club at 503-228-7231 x104 or email [email protected].