The Louisiana Office of Tourism, along with the office of Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne, recently launched a new year-long program designed to promote Louisiana music and culture outside the state. A key component of the program, called the Louisiana Music Ambassador Project, is unique, music-themed recognition awards created by Bennett Awards.
The Louisiana Music Ambassador Program rewards Louisiana musicians who appear at major out-of-state music festivals and events, promoting the state’s rich musical and cultural heritage. To be selected as a Music Ambassador, artists must submit an application pertaining to a specific out-of-state music festival. The festival must be at least three years old and attract over 10,000 attendees.
Once selected, Music Ambassadors agree to promote Louisiana music and culture by displaying a removable state decal on their bass drum, throwing state promotional items (e.g., guitar picks, bandanas) out to the crowd, or inviting event attendees to visit Louisiana for a great experience, including music, food, culture, etc.
In exchange for their participation, Music Ambassadors receive a stipend (amount based on event attendance), a link to their website on the state’s own music website (www.louisianasoundtrack.com), and a pewter recognition award created by Bennett Awards. The recognition award selected for this program was “Melody”, designed by Bennett Awards artist Debbie Troyer.