Globally recognised thought-leader is coming to the ‘Gong to chat about how music can make a city better.
Mr Shapiro, who is touring Australia to showcase his debut book, This Must Be The Place: How Music Can Make Your City Better, will participate in an open discussion on the value of music at Wollongong Town Hall on Wednesday 11 September.
The free event is an opportunity for community members, musos, creatives and businesses to learn about the value of music for creative economies in cities and places.
Mr Shapiro will speak with industry experts — John Wardle, Ben Tillman, Liv Jansz and Chelsey Dagger — about new ways of thinking about music and culture.
“Music is an incredible tool to differentiate a place and make it attractive and better, because it’s all about creating a place to live for, rather than just a place to live,” Mr Shapiro said.
“It’s an honour to come to Wollongong to speak and learn about the incredible work happening across town, and how I can be a part of it.”
The discussion will also consider how cities like Wollongong can effectively integrate live music to create a positive, thriving community.
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said the event was more than just a discussion on the importance of music, but how music can have a powerful effect on how cities are developed, built, managed and governed.
“This discussion is a timely opportunity to explore and probe further the value of live music for Wollongong from a must-hear panel. It’s an event for those who love and value live music, want to learn how the ‘Gong can continue to grow its dynamic night life,” Cr Bradbery said.
“Over the past few years, fostering the city’s nighttime economy by supporting live music opportunities, has been a focus for Council. Music has a profound impact on our daily lives and has the ability to shape our communities into places we love to spend time in.
“As our CBD evolves with our changing community, we will continue to look for opportunities to partner with local businesses, musicians and bands and the movers and shakers who are bringing music to our city.”
