Why I No Longer Think You Have to Leave Sacramento to Pursue Music

For a long time, I thought that if I wanted to have a career in music, I would eventually have to leave Sacramento. When people talk about the music industry, cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco usually come up first. I always assumed that was where the biggest opportunities were, where musicians went to build their careers, and where I would eventually need to be.

My perspective started to change when I began studying music at Cosumnes River College and later looked into transferring to Sacramento State. One moment that really stood out to me was attending a student jazz voice recital at Sac State. I remember being amazed by the level of talent and musicianship I heard. The performances were so good that it made me rethink my idea of what a music community could look like. I realized that I didn’t necessarily have to leave Sacramento to find talented musicians and meaningful opportunities.

After becoming more involved in Sacramento’s music scene, I started discovering just how much was happening here. I was introduced to organizations like the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera, Broadway Sacramento, B Street Theatre, and the Sacramento Ballet. I also became more aware of student performances, local artists, and the many different ways people were creating and sharing music throughout the city.

What surprised me the most was seeing how many people were building their lives around music right here in Sacramento. There are always composers creating new works, songwriters performing their original songs, producers working with local artists, and recording studios helping musicians bring their ideas to life. Sacramento may not be the first city people think of when they imagine the music industry, but there is a community of people here who are passionate about creating.

Another part of Sacramento’s music scene that I have really appreciated is the focus on music education. Through my experiences teaching, I have seen how many opportunities young musicians have to learn and grow. Organizations like Newsongs School of Music, Mandarins Academy, and NorCal Arts give students the chance to develop their skills, perform with others, and discover their own creativity. These programs are important because they help build the future of Sacramento’s music community.

My own experiences as a composer, teacher, radio host, and recording studio intern have allowed me to see different sides of this community. Through KSSU, I hope to continue sharing the stories of musicians, songwriters, producers, and other creators who are contributing to Sacramento’s music scene.

One of the things I love about Sacramento is that you don’t have to be a musician to be part of this community. Going to a concert, attending a student recital, supporting a local artist, or experiencing a performing arts event are all ways to connect with the creativity happening around us.

Looking back, I’m glad my perspective changed. I used to think that success in music meant leaving Sacramento, but now I see that growth can happen here too. Sacramento has given me opportunities to learn, create, and meet people who share the same passion for music. I hope that as I continue my own journey, I can be one of the people who helps this city’s music scene continue to grow.