Columbia, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Columbia is aiming to launch a free outdoor music series in 2026, supported by the Koger Center’s proposal for the Levitt Music Series Grant. The grant offers funding for community concerts, and residents can vote online until September 15. If successful, the initiative will bring seven to ten free concerts each year, utilizing underused public spaces to create a vibrant cultural hub in the city.
Columbia is on the verge of potentially launching a new free outdoor music series slated for 2026, backed by a proposal from the Koger Center. The initiative is part of a competition for the Levitt Music Series Grant, which is designed to foster artistic expression through community concerts.
The public voting period for this proposal started on September 5 and will conclude on September 15. Residents of Columbia can have an active role in this initiative by casting their votes online at levitt.org/vote or via text message to 877-409-5525, using the keyword “COLUMBIA.” This grant is a significant opportunity, offering up to $120,000 distributed over three years to qualifying U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
If successful, the Koger Center’s proposal would bring between seven to ten free outdoor concerts each year, showcasing a diverse array of music genres presented by professional musicians. These concerts are intended to activate underused public spaces, turning them into vibrant, inclusive community destinations that foster social interaction and artistic appreciation.
The Koger Center’s vision is to utilize the Koger Center Plaza Stage as the primary venue for these concerts. This location, known for its accessibility and space, is poised to become a hub of cultural activity in Columbia if the proposal is funded.
The Levitt Foundation, the organization behind the grant, is known for supporting the largest free outdoor concert series across the United States. Their mission emphasizes the importance of music in enriching communities, enhancing public spaces, and providing equitable access to the arts.
The Koger Center’s proposal for Columbia is accessible for public viewing on the Levitt Foundation website. Community members are encouraged to review the proposal and participate in the voting process, which allows individuals to submit one vote for up to five different proposals they support. This approach encourages broad community engagement and highlights the collective desire for music and arts in public spaces.
Historically, free outdoor music series have proven to be effective in revitalizing local communities, boosting tourism, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. By fostering community gatherings, these events not only provide entertainment but also encourage local economic activity and community bonding.
Looking ahead, the Koger Center is hopeful that by winning this grant, they will be able to profoundly impact the cultural landscape of Columbia, offering residents a shared space to enjoy music and each other’s company under the open sky. The outcome of this voting may play a crucial role in shaping the community experience in Columbia for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Levitt Music Series Grant?
The Levitt Music Series Grant offers up to $120,000 over three years to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits to create free outdoor concert series that engage the community.
When is the voting period for the Koger Center’s proposal?
Voting for the Koger Center’s proposal began on September 5 and will end on September 15.
How can residents of Columbia vote for the proposal?
Votes can be cast online at levitt.org/vote or by sending a text to 877-409-5525 with the keyword “COLUMBIA.”
What will the grant fund if awarded to Columbia?
If awarded, the grant will fund a series of seven to ten free outdoor concerts each year, featuring a variety of music genres and professional musicians.
Key Features of Koger Center’s Music Proposal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | Up to $120,000 over three years |
| Concert Series Duration | 7 to 10 free outdoor concerts annually |
| Voting Period | September 5 – September 15 |
| Voting Methods | Online and via text (keyword “COLUMBIA”) |
| Venue | Koger Center Plaza Stage |
| Target Audience | Columbia residents, families, and visitors |
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Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Columbia Music Grant Proposal
- Wikipedia: Music in the United States
- Cola Daily: Columbia Community Leadership
- Google Search: Outdoor Music Concerts Benefits
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Living Room Concert
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