The Salina Music Census is a community-led initiative to gain a better understanding of the current needs of the Salina music community. The census captures key information about the local music economy to help musicians, music business leaders, educators, and community members make more informed, data-driven decisions to support the music ecosystem.
The Salina Music Census is open to anyone 18 or older who lives or works in the Salina music ecosystem. If you contribute to Salina’s music community in any capacity, paid or unpaid, you should participate.
Salina is part of Kansas Music Cities Together, a year-long, cohort-based program designed to help Kansas communities better understand, connect, and support their local music ecosystems — and the census is the first step. Led by Sound Music Cities, in collaboration with the Kansas Arts Commission, Kansas Music Cities Together brings Kansas communities together for shared learning and technical assistance. The program is supported by Movement Musick and is designed to meet communities where they are, supporting local leaders through shared learning, coordination, and practical tools.
I am a music fan. Should I participate?
This census is focused on people who work in music in any capacity.
Why is this data being collected?
Salina’s music community and its partners want reliable information about the people who power the music ecosystem. The data helps identify what is working, where support is most needed, and what opportunities exist. When the results are released, they will be available for musicians, venues, nonprofits, funders, businesses, and civic leaders to use. It will also be considered in The Big Picture, Salina’s cultural plan currently underway.
What kinds of questions does the census ask?
The census includes questions about demographics, occupation type, creative and industry roles, income and economic activity, workforce and professional development, affordability, and overall experiences working in the Salina music ecosystem.
Will my answers remain anonymous?
Yes. The census does not collect personal identifiers or IP addresses. Any comments that appear in the published results will be attributed only as “Census Respondent.”
How long does the census take?
Most people complete it in about 8 minutes, depending on their role and how much they choose to write in the open comment sections.
How long will the census be open?
The Salina Music Census will run for two weeks, (with a built-in extension period to give everyone time to participate.) If we give them an extension from the beginning they will wait to complete it. I’d like to avoid this language if possible.
Who should take the census?
Anyone 18 or older who lives or works within the Salina music ecosystem. If you contribute to Salina’s music community in any capacity, paid or unpaid, you should participate.
I am not a full-time music professional. Should I still take it?
Yes. Many people in Salina’s music community work part-time, seasonally, occasionally, or volunteer their time. If you contribute to the ecosystem in any way, your voice is important.
What if I have more than one role in music?
Pick the primary role that fits you best. The census has space to list any additional roles you perform.
Can I take the census on my phone?
Yes. You can complete it on a phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop. If you plan to come back later, use the same device.
When will the results be released?
The results are expected to be available in late September to mid October, shared publicly through reports, dashboards, and community presentations.
Your Voice Matters.
We are inviting you to join us as a Community Partner in the Salina Music Census. We’re looking for trusted organizations and voices — like yours — to help us spread the word when the survey launches. No heavy lift — just a commitment to share the census with your network and encourage participation. That could mean:
