TuneHatch: A Dating Website for Bands, Promoters and Local Venues

Hey Neighbors - welcome back!  This week, we’re heading to Nashville to take a closer look at a startup platform that has potential make a big impact the live music industry, by making it easier for bands and venues to have that all-important first date.

Imagine a Match.com, but for bands, venue owners, and promoters. That’s the concept behind TuneHatch, a software platform connecting live music professionals to create unforgettable shows.

I had the chance to sit down with the founders and get the scoop on how the company is growing it's reach. Whether you’re a fan, an artist, or looking for an exciting new career pivot or investment opportunity, TuneHatch is doing something you’re going to want to hear about.

Later in the episode, we’ll get to our regular music festival news updates and, as always, I’ll leave you with another live festival performance.

Watch or listen to this week's show below, and make sure to leave a rating wherever you get it. 🙏

This Week’s Music Festival News

48th Ann Arbor Folk Festival

The Ann Arbor Folk Festival is making its much-anticipated return on January 24–25, 2025, at the historic Hill Auditorium, a venue known for having exceptional acoustics.

This two-day event is hosted by The Ark, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the presentation, preservation, and encouragement of folk, roots, and ethnic music. 

The festival typically brings a diverse lineup, featuring well-known acts as well as emerging artists and bands. Ticket prices range from $47.50 to $250, so whether you're looking for a single-day pass or a premium experience with added perks, there is a price point that will work for you. Visit the event page for more information on the lineup, schedule, and to reserve your tickets.

Midwinter Bluegrass Festival

This winter festival will be held from February 14–16, 2025, at the Delta by Marriott in Northglenn, Colorado.

Festival goers can expect can expect to get the some of the best local and regional bands that the Colorado bluegrass scene has to offer.

Among the headliners, you'll find Tony Trischka's Earl Jam, Sister Sadie, Mike Compton & Joe Newberry, and even Damn Tall Buildings. You'll also see Ms. Amy & the Jet Set on the bill.  If you want to get to know Amy, her band and their musical influences, check out my interview with her in Episode 14 of Music Festivals Podcast.

Early bird three-day passes are currently available for the price of $122.90.  To purchase tickets and find additional information including the schedule, visit midwinterbluegrass.com. 

Columbus WinterFest

If you’re in the Columbus area, make sure to mark your calendar for this year's WinterFest, happening tomorrow, December 7, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bicentennial Park.

This family-friendly event is completely free to attend, and features an exciting line up of local Ohio-bands. Performers will include Cincinnati-based bluegrass band Rumpke Mountain Boys, Columbus's Austin & The Syd Experience and two sets from DJ BLCKUNICORN.  Wrapping up the festival is none other than YouTube sensation, Saxsquatch (at least he'll be warm, right?)

Festival goers can also get a taste of seasonal craft beers offered by some of our most popular local Columbus breweries as well as an array of locally-owned and operated food trucks.  For those who appreciate a good brew, craft beer tasting is available for just $14. This includes six 4-ounce pours, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors, along with a custom koozie that will help keep your beer from freezing.

The festival also offers a range of holiday activities including rides on a mechanical reindeer (yee-haw Rudolf!), a holiday inflatable bounce house and a giant snow globe that ought to get you right in the Holiday spirit.

Upcoming Episodes on Music Festivals Podcast

Keep an eye out for daily videos hitting our YouTube channel, covering festivals, venues, and campgrounds covered in thew 2024 festival season. As we move into the colder months and the fests take a break over the holidays, we're going to keep the show going with some great insider interviews. Here’s what’s coming up:

• S2.Ep20: Mountain Grass Unit (December 13, 2024)
• S2.Ep21: Trey Hensley (December 20, 2024)
• S2.Ep22: Columbus WinterFest Recap (December 27, 2024)
• S2.Ep23: Dan Boner on ETSU's Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music Program (January 3, 2025)
• S2.Ep24: Pixie & the Partygrass Boys (January 10, 2025)

Thank you so much for tuning in. I appreciate all of you—whether you’re one of the many subscribers on YouTube or following along on Facebook, Instagram or via email in The Neighborhood.

Cheers.

Neighbor N8