We Are: Common Chord

More music. More community.

In 2004, this organization first opened its doors as the “River Music Experience” – a museum of American roots music. In the nearly twenty years since, we have grown and established our place in the cultural landscape of the Quad Cities.

Now, nearly twenty years later, our mission has evolved.

Today, we create a variety of diverse, accessible, community-oriented music programs. Through programming, partnerships, and advocacy, we are dedicated to building and empowering our local music scene – and with it, our whole community.

With that expansive evolution in programming and community impact, it is time for our name to catch up to who we are today, not who we were nearly twenty years ago.

We’re pleased to introduce you to: Common Chord.

Together, we are building a more vibrant and welcoming community, fueled by music in all its forms. Thank you for joining us on that journey!

COMMUNITY JAM SESSION

Join us Sunday, September 15 for the first-ever Community Jam Session!

Where: Freight House Parking Lot

1:00-2:00: Musicians arrive and set up

2:30: Jam Session!

Click here for songs, chords, sheet music, and other details!

Connection and Community

Music is our universal language – a common thread that ties us all together. We create musical experiences that help to connect Quad Citizens with each other and build a stronger community where all can thrive.

ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

Music is for everyone. We break down barriers to ensure every person has access to the power of music. Diverse and inclusive experiences create a culture where all Quad Citizens feel a sense of belonging and ownership.

LOCAL MUSICIANS AND OUR MUSIC SCENE

Local musicians are the core of our creative scene. Our community is full of talented, hard-working, homegrown musicians. Not only do we prioritize hiring local musicians directly, we also work to build an economy and culture that values local talent and creates more opportunities for musicians to build lasting careers.

THE POWER OF MUSIC

Music drives our culture. It improves quality of life and well-being for anyone it touches. It makes the Quad Cities a more exciting and fulfilling place to live. It is also a powerful economic engine that supports jobs, uplifts businesses, and fuels regional success.

Simply put: Music makes our lives better.

We build partnerships both within and outside of the music scene and advocate regionally for the power of music, building local pride in our community and drawing wider attention to the power of music.