Partnership will bring free outdoor concerts across Tennessee
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter, Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) Commissioner Mark Ezell and Levitt Foundation leadership announced today a joint partnership and launch of grant applications for the Levitt AMP Music Series beginning May 1.
Through the partnership, both the state and the foundation will be awarding matching grants of up to $40,000 per year over the next three years, 2026-2028. The funding will go toward supporting approximately 180 free outdoor concerts in small or mid-sized cities across Tennessee. This project marks the Levitt Foundation’s first joint partnership with a specific state.
The Levitt Foundation has provided funding to more than 50 communities across the U.S. through its Levitt AMP grant program, which activates underused outdoor public spaces in cities and towns nationwide, creating community gathering destinations and ensuring access to the arts by offering free concert series with high-caliber artists across an array of music genres.
To learn more about the Levitt AMP Music Series Grants, see eligibility criteria and access the application, please visit levitt.org/partners-tn.
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“From Beale Street to Broadway, to Bristol and beyond, Tennessee is known for our rich artistic heritage that tells the story of our great state. We’re proud to partner with the Levitt Foundation to bring more live music opportunities to communities across the state and further enhance our local economies.” – Gov. Bill Lee
“Tennessee is home to one of the most dynamic and robust entertainment industries nationwide, and we are thrilled to partner with the Tennessee Entertainment Commission, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and the Levitt Foundation to bring more music and entertainment to communities statewide. I believe our state is one of the best places to do business because of the quality of life found here, and this partnership will further enhance that in the years to come.” – TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter
“Music is undeniably one of the driving forces behind Tennessee’s remarkable growth as one of the fastest-growing states for travel spending. Visitors come to Tennessee expecting authentic experiences, and this partnership with the Levitt Foundation will help us bring the power of music to even more communities across the state. It’s an exciting opportunity to enrich our local communities and provide unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors alike.” – TDTD Commissioner Mark Ezell
“The Levitt Foundation is excited to be partnering with the Tennessee Entertainment Commission, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, joining efforts to support free concert series in communities across the state. For the past decade we have seen the tremendous positive impact of Levitt AMP concerts in building more vibrant, healthy and thriving communities by bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together through the power of free, live music – fostering social connections, spurring additional investments supporting the local economy and creating pride of place.” – Sharon Yazowski, president & CEO, Levitt Foundation
“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to support Tennessee’s creative economy and infrastructure. By working with the Levitt Foundation, we can further our efforts to make Tennessee a leading hub for music and entertainment across our state, while also enriching the fabric of our communities.” – Tennessee Entertainment Commission executive director Bob Raines
About the Levitt Foundation
The Levitt Foundation is a private family foundation that exists to strengthen the social fabric of America. We support changemakers and nonprofits across the country to activate underused public spaces through free outdoor concerts, creating welcoming and inclusive destinations where the power of free, live music brings people together, fosters belonging and social connections, and invigorates community life. Levitt venues and concert sites attract people of all ages and backgrounds and reflect the character of their town or city, while benefitting from the framework and best practices of the Levitt program.
In 2025, the Levitt network is presenting 650+ free concerts in more than 50 towns and cities across the country, with a total audience of nearly a million people. In addition to funding free concerts, the Levitt Foundation supports advancing vibrant music ecosystems through research and partnerships. Learn more at levitt.org and on Instagram, Facebook, and Vimeo.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
TNECD is the state’s primary agency committed to fostering economic growth through job creation and community development. By attracting new corporate investment and facilitating the growth of existing businesses, the department works to strengthen Tennessee’s competitive landscape. Additionally, TNECD strives to increase the economic prosperity for all Tennesseans by providing grants to communities statewide, helping them to become vibrant, business-friendly environments where companies can flourish. For more information, visit us at tnecd.com. Join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
About the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for travel inspiration.
Levitt Foundation Media Contact
Chris Dzialo
Associate Vice President of Communications
(213) 201-6120
[email protected]
TNECD Media Contact
Chris O’Brien
Public Information Officer
(615) 934-5879
[email protected]
TDTD Media Contact
Amanda Murphy
Director of Communications
(615) 741-9010
[email protected]
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