First Friday Performers at the Emporium
Call for First Friday Performers at the Emporium, 100 S. Gay Street, downtown Knoxville
Applications due by Sunday, December 17, 2023
> For assistance of any kind, please call 865-523-7543 or email sc@knoxalliance.com
The Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville announces a call for performance applications from musicians, bands, and ensembles for First Friday exhibition celebrations occurring in 2024 at the Emporium Center. City of Knoxville and Knox County residents are especially encouraged to apply.
There is no fee to apply. First Friday performance dates in 2024 include: March 1, April 5, June 7, July 5, September 6 and October 4.
Performers (Artist) agree to provide two 45-minute sets between 6:00-8:30 PM (entire First Friday celebration is 5:00-9:00 PM). Artist represents that all music performed at the Emporium Center is original and not subject to licensing fees. The musician, band, or ensemble will receive $300 for this service.
The Alliance is open to all genres of music, which should be generally appropriate for the audiences of all ages who typically attend First Fridays at the Emporium. No foul language or profanity during performances is permitted. On average, the Emporium welcomes between 1,000 – 1,500 people on First Fridays. The Emporium is ADA accessible.
Performances will most likely occur in the lower gallery. The interior temperature lingers between 68-71 °F. The final decision on placement rests with ACA. Artist should secure the necessary equipment for performance, as ACA does not provide any audio or visual equipment. Power outlets and a DEWENWILS Extension Cord Storage Reel with 4-Grounded Outlets are available. Additionally, a rug to define the performance area is available.
The performance volume shall not be unreasonably loud or prevent normal conversation among the First Friday guests and tenants of the Emporium. Artist agrees to be sensitive to requests from ACA staff to adjust or lower performance volume.
Upon acceptance, Artist will provide ACA with biographical information, artist’s statement, digital images, and other publicity materials as requested. The Alliance will promote Artist via social media (Facebook and Instagram), email marketing, calendar, and signage. All self-promotional efforts are encouraged. Artists are allowed to sell merchandise and solicit tips.
Loading and unloading of equipment into the Emporium will be the sole responsibility of Artist. Artist may unload items at any time after the Emporium opens at 9 AM on the date of the performance. Artist may load in through Emporium’s front doors if nearby parking is available; however, it may be easier to load in through the side door on Jackson Avenue, which leads to the lower gallery and involves about eight steps. The door must be opened by someone from the inside. There is also an elevator for items that must be rolled.
In general, vicinity parking must be paid until 6 PM, whether at a meter or in the lot caddy-corner from the Emporium. More parking options are available upon request.
Please submit a portfolio/press kit or links to prior performances, website and/or social media handles, and a listing of any First Friday performance date conflicts to sc@knoxalliance.com. Applications will be reviewed by staff and board of the Alliance with announcements to be made by Wednesday, January 10.
The Emporium is located at 100 S. Gay Street on the corner of Gay Street & Jackson Avenue in downtown Knoxville. Admission is free, visits are self-guided, and exhibitions are generally appropriate for all ages. For more information on this call, please contact Suzanne Cada at 865-523-7543 or sc@knoxalliance.com.