University Star

San Marcos is in dire need of more music venues and events to bring a greater variety of musical talent to the community.

Throughout the years, San Marcos has been a hub for a number of musicians, from big-time country singer George Strait to members of the rock band Blue October. In addition, some Texas State students have also gotten their musical start here. There have been a variety of places for local artists to play, including Cheatham Street Warehouse and Texas Music Theater. However, a larger number of venues in the city and a more diverse set of performers would certainly be appreciated.

In light of recent festivals such as Austin City Limits and the upcoming Fun Fun Fun Fest, it would be a smart idea for city organizers to hold a diverse music event in San Marcos. There is a great creative community in this city that revolves around all different kinds of art, with music being a large focus. San Marcos is situated close to Austin, which is known as the live music capital of the world. The proximity could be attractive to many artists who are looking for an audience.

Recently, musicians and music enthusiasts in the city have encountered a few struggles. When Sundance Records, a renowned music store in San Marcos, closed its doors for good last April, a part of the city’s culture suffered. Not too long after that, Tantra Coffeehouse decided to stop acting as a live music venue to focus on other aspects of its business. These two blows have lessened the luster that is San Marcos art culture, which is in desperate need of a recharge.

Vendors, venue owners and artists alike should have no worries when considering San Marcos as a potential place to bring their businesses or talent. Efforts to revitalize creative entertainment in the San Marcos area should be pushed and embraced by the city. There is a lot of great talent in and around the city limits, and one of the best ways to pull artists in is to provide better performance venues.

Also, improved venues could signal an increase in the quality of events. If live shows were brought back to places like Tantra, and new outdoor stages were built for concerts around the city, San Marcos could better embrace its music culture. A great example of a successful music event in the city is KTSW’s My Radio Festival. The event is hosted by Texas State’s student-run radio station and brings diverse talent and music to the area. If more events like that took place in the community, the musical culture of San Marcos would be in much better shape than it is now.

Music is just one of the many great things that bring whole communities together. Musical talent needs to be more significantly recognized as a true highlight of the city. By working to bring that vibrant culture to the forefront, students, residents and visitors could boost the local economy. The boost would come from frequenting both new and existing music venues while enjoying the unique artistic sensations that San Marcos has to offer.

—Alex Pernice is a mass communication sophomore.