This week, Sacramento launched the first "Sacramento Music Census." The aim of the project is not only to better understand the lives of our region's musical community, but also to review the policies and regulations that impact it.

Led by a partnership between the Office of Arts and Culture and Sound Music Cities, a music consultant firm, the program is funded through the Measure U tax, and is part of the city's "Creative Edge" plan. According to data provided by the city, Sacramento's music industry produced ~$113 million in sales from its 1,400 jobs in 2020.

Today, we've got three key takeaways for who should take the city's census. Spoiler: You don't have to know "Wonderwall" on guitar.

🎼 Who should take it

Anyone age 18 and older who contributes "music-related work" — whether it's paid, volunteer, creative, administrative, or even owning a venue — should take the census if they live in Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer, Yolo, Sutter, Nevada, or Yuba counties.

🎼 What kinds of questions are being asked

The anonymous census asks demographic questions (race, gender, etc.) as well as questions regarding diversity, equity, and life as a musician in Sacramento and its surrounding areas.

🎼 What will this be used for

The information gathered from the census will be used to inform decisions regarding a swath of potential improvements to music-related businesses, like insurance and security requirements, permitting, and creative development projects.