Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the City of Bandera has achieved designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. This certification, granted by the Texas Music Office (TMO), follows a comprehensive multi-step process and aims to promote economic development related to music business in Texas communities.

"Congratulations to the City of Bandera on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation," said Governor Abbott. "Music Friendly Texas Communities work tirelessly to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth."

Senator Pete Flores expressed his enthusiasm for Bandera's achievement: "This recognition not only celebrates Bandera's rich musical heritage but also highlights our commitment to fostering economic growth through the arts."

Representative Wes Virdell also praised Bandera's designation, stating, "The designation affirms what has been true for years. This is a well-deserved honor and ensures the continued success and music tradition of Bandera with this certification."

Bandera Mayor Denise Griffin emphasized the town's deep-rooted connection with music: "Notes and tunes are ingrained in the fiber of this town. We are definitely a Music Friendly Texas Community."

Debbie Breen, a member of both the Bandera City Council and Economic Development Corporation, recalled her personal experiences with live music in Bandera: "Music is the beating soul of this town." Dianne Lindig Lovett from the Convention & Visitors Bureau highlighted historic venues like Arkey Blue’s Silver Dollar, recognized as a ‘Texas Treasure,’ as part of Bandera’s ongoing musical legacy.

Local business owner Liz Cox shared her observations on how deeply embedded music is within community life: "One of the most notable features of our town is the thriving local music scene."

The official ceremony celebrating Bandera’s certification will take place on June 21 at Bandera Middle School, coinciding with the opening day of Smithsonian’s “Crossroads: Changes in Rural America” exhibit.

Patricia Moore from the Convention & Visitors Bureau can be contacted for further inquiries regarding this event. With its new status, Bandera joins 84 other certified communities under TMO’s program aimed at supporting over 196,000 jobs within Texas' music industry.