Dallas Music Office Announces the 2026 Auditions for a Busking Initiative and Professional Development Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DALLAS, JANUARY 15, 2026 - The Dallas Music Office, a division of Visit Dallas, is excited to announce auditions for the 2026 cohort of Dallas Sounds Amplified, following a highly successful first official year. Dallas Sounds Amplified is the city’s first-ever formal busking initiative and professional development program designed to activate public spaces and strengthen Dallas’ reputation as a Music Friendly City.
The program officially launched in early 2025 and exceeded expectations, with all 17 participating artists securing multiple paid gigs and radio placements directly connected to their street performances. Inspired by New York City’s acclaimed Music Under New York program, the initiative gives local musicians the opportunity to refine their craft while building meaningful connections with the community. Dallas Sounds Amplified demonstrates the power of intentional placement and exposure in helping artists reach new audiences and professional opportunities.
“Joining Dallas Sounds Amplified gave me the opportunity to share my music with new audiences. Their resources have allowed me to build, network, and cultivate new relationships in the music scene, opening doors I didn’t think were within reach,” said program participant Dev Wulf.
“Doing the Dallas Sounds Amplified busking program has been a great way to get more plugged into the creative scene and experience a different side of performing. Although I’m from Dallas and have been performing here for many years, this initiative has helped me feel more connected in the Dallas industry. It has also been a great way to have new crowds exposed to my music, build my community of creative friends, and in essence, give back to the city of Dallas. I’m honored to have been a part of the program’s inaugural year!” said Leslie Austin.
Musicians selected for the 2026 Dallas Sounds Amplified program will perform at specific, designated locations in Downtown Dallas, Uptown and Deep Ellum. In addition to live performances, the program emphasizes the importance of consistent performance experience, helping artists progress toward mastery through real-world practice. Participants also receive professional development support, networking opportunities and a pathway to join the Dallas Music Office’s Directory for Hire, currently under development with Visit Dallas and launching later this year.
Audition Details for the 2026 Dallas Sounds Amplified Program:
Date: Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026
Location: Kessler Theater, 1230 W. Davis Street, Dallas, Texas 75208
Time: 12-7 p.m.
Audition Sign-up Sheet: here
Audition Expectations:
Each artist will perform one song and should have a second prepared if requested
Artists should use no more than two instruments in their performance
No full drum kits
Electric guitar amp will be provided
DI box will be provided for acoustic guitars and piano
Artists must bring their own microphone
Artists must bring their own quarter-inch cable for their instrument
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can participate? To participate, artists must be fully mobile musicians with easily transportable acts for auditions and performances.
Where do performances take place? Performers are expected to play multiple times a month at designated locations across downtown Dallas, marked by vinyl dots. Future expansion is planned for Deep Ellum.
What resources are provided to participating artists? Through partnerships with DDI, DART, KXT, and Mullen & Mullen Music Project, the initiative offers artists:
- Program assets
- Personalized signs for visibility and branding
- Artist professional development opportunities
- Inclusion in the Dallas Music Office Directory for Hire after one year in the program
How are artists promoted? The Dallas Music Office will showcase the selected class of artists in dedicated performances and regularly promote them through its website and social media channels. Additionally, KXT will announce artist names and performance locations, increasing their visibility.
Why is this initiative important? This program not only supports local musicians but also enhances the cultural vibrancy of Dallas, grows community, and creates a richer experience for residents and visitors alike.
How are artists compensated?
When busking, artists earn through audience tips. Personalized tipping signs are provided to enhance visibility and make supporting performers safe and easy. Throughout the year, opportunities for paid gigs will be offered to participating musicians.
How does the program support artists’ growth and visibility?
The program not only provides a platform for live performance but also serves as a professional development opportunity. By participating, musicians gain invaluable experience toward their "10,000 hours" of mastery, a concept popularized by Malcolm Gladwell. Artists from the pilot program reported increased visibility and features on KXT and other various new sources, with many securing paid gigs from external organizations. This initiative aims to continue that success, fostering a pipeline of local talent ready to contribute to Dallas’ thriving music ecosystem. All program artists are automatically enrolled in the upcoming public Music Office Directory and gain access to various educational development opportunities throughout the year.
For more information, follow us on social media at @Dallas_Sounds and stay tuned for exciting updates and opportunities.
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ABOUT VISIT DALLAS
Visit Dallas is an independent, not-for-profit sales and marketing organization contracted with the City of Dallas to promote Dallas as a premier business and leisure travel destination. The organization’s collective efforts generate positive economic impact, diverse jobs, and state and local tax revenues, benefiting the community and improving the quality of life for all residents.
ABOUT THE DALLAS MUSIC OFFICE
The Dallas Music Office, a division of Visit Dallas, is dedicated to promoting and supporting the thriving music industry in Dallas. As an extension of the Texas Music Office, it serves as a dynamic marketing and community hub for artists, bands, venues and all stakeholders invested in the city's vibrant music scene. The Dallas Music Office is committed to fostering growth, collaboration and innovation within the local music community, ensuring that Dallas remains a top destination for music and culture enthusiasts.
MEDIA CONTACT
Zane Harrington
Director of Communications, Visit Dallas
zane.harrington@visitdallas.com
