TOO YOUNG TO SLEEP: Local music isn't hard to support

While walking through the downtown streets during the annual music festival, it became clear to me that I rarely see this much support behind local music here in Muncie.

Cheryl Crowder, downtown event organizer, said Muncie Music Fest drew in an estimated crowd of 2,000 this past Saturday. A block party of sorts, the festival brought together 50 local acts of all genres from Muncie and beyond, charging $10-15 for a full-day pass.

Albeit, Muncie Music Fest was located right in the heart of downtown, with nearby bar access working to its advantage. And 50 bands rarely play one show together in Muncie. Nevertheless, there are so many opportunities to experience live music in Muncie, most of which are thinly attended.

Nearly every other week, Village Green Records hosts free shows, bringing local and touring acts to the Martin St. lawn. These shows are free. The Village bars are right around the corner. Shouldn't these shows be just as well attended as Muncie Music Fest? A thriving passion for music in the Village would only enrich its rather barren culture at the moment.

And what about house shows? Nearly every weekend, bands play free house shows in Muncie. An easy excuse is to say you've never been invited to one before, but all it takes to get invited is to "like" local bands on Facebook. House shows provide an atmosphere truly unique to college campuses. After leaving college, house shows will not be as accessible. Why not join in on the fun, as well as support local music?

In this modern digital era, the energy of live music has become increasingly anticipatory. Live atmosphere cannot be pirated. The raw energy of a show cannot be burned onto a CD. Live music is in itself an enriching experience that is more personal than anything you will ever sync to your iPod.

So do yourself a favor and get out there. Muncie has plenty of live music to offer, in all genres and in all types of venues. All it takes is a little bit of digging and you'll reap the rewards of a fun time.