On June 13 and 14, Tampa will be hosting the second annual Homemade Music Symposium, a free festival featuring a quirky mix of homegrown musical talent and international business gurus. Originally created to give local musicians the chance to learn industry tips from business greats, the event combines workshops and performances, with an emphasis on public access. Any aspiring musician can meet with legends like Tony Michaelides, a record promoter who served David Bowie, U2, and The Pixies, among others, on the Manchester rock 'n roll scene.
But the fun isn't just for the musically gifted. For those (like me)
with a music appreciation, but not a talent, the event is heavy in
top-rate shows. "We're bringing together some of the best musicians in
the area and
splicing in a little bit of the avant garde," says T. Hampton Dohrman,
the symposium's director. "With four showcases going Saturday night and
close to 20 performers on Sunday you've got an
amazing amount of local talent to experience."
Like Rosa Rio, a world-renowned Tampa pianist who got her start making live music for silent films. At 107 years old, she's still going strong, and she'll be playing songs by George Gershwin and Cole Porter - composers she once knew personally. And should your ears need a break, check out the exhibit of music-inspired visual art.
And, of course, the tropical location doesn't hurt. The festival will be held in Tampa's breezy, historic "Latin Quarter," Ybor City. Performance venues include a variety of Ybor City's favorite stops, like The Dirty Shame (a live music bar) and The Roosevelt (an "eco-friendly" club whose music is powered by a biodiesel generator). And not to worry, foodies - there's still a homemade treat for your tastebuds. The event is also sponsored by local watering hole New World Brewery. And we all know how we feel about craft beer. Brews, beats, and balmy weather? Count me in.
For a full schedule, including times and locations, check out the symposium's website.
Like Rosa Rio, a world-renowned Tampa pianist who got her start making live music for silent films. At 107 years old, she's still going strong, and she'll be playing songs by George Gershwin and Cole Porter - composers she once knew personally. And should your ears need a break, check out the exhibit of music-inspired visual art.
And, of course, the tropical location doesn't hurt. The festival will be held in Tampa's breezy, historic "Latin Quarter," Ybor City. Performance venues include a variety of Ybor City's favorite stops, like The Dirty Shame (a live music bar) and The Roosevelt (an "eco-friendly" club whose music is powered by a biodiesel generator). And not to worry, foodies - there's still a homemade treat for your tastebuds. The event is also sponsored by local watering hole New World Brewery. And we all know how we feel about craft beer. Brews, beats, and balmy weather? Count me in.
For a full schedule, including times and locations, check out the symposium's website.










This is by the far the most interesting event going on in the Ybor City / Tampa Bay area. It's new, it's weird, it sounds good, and most importantly...there's good beer. Just go!
If the event is ANYTHING like the POSTER, it's bound to be wonderfully memorable!