I have always believed that music communities are important, both in the online and offline worlds. More often than not they can overlap and in many ways, this can be when they are at their most valuable.

A couple of years ago, I wrote my dissertation on The Impact of the Internet on Subcultural Musical Activity which focused primarily on the hardcore punk and emo communities. I compared the promotional methods used in the 80s to those used now, and researched how fans communicated with each other – particularly over long distances. What I found most interesting was that many of the methods used were very similar to those we use now. Back then it was more difficult to communicate across a great distance – or at least in comparison to how it is today – and as a result, could be more difficult to distribute and promote music to a wider audience outside of the local area.

In many ways the internet has turned the music industry on its head. In some senses, it is giving power to the people and providing a greater freedom of choice. I for one think it is great. Sure, there have been some downsides for the industry but what we need to remember is that the music industry is a creative one. Creative people adapt. And that is what the industry will continue to do.

But anyway, the reason I wanted to talk about music communities is due to a recent friendship I have struck up with a fellow Twitter user. Mark Halsall runs a music community called Musicians Together which encourages independent and unsigned musicians to upload videos. The website is still relatively new but it is a great idea and if you are a musician yourself, I suggest you sign up. These types of communities can only grow with new members and continued participation!

I have agreed to help Mark (@musostogether) with some SEO work to try and boost the website’s profile. I have also signed up as a musician and will submit music once I have a chance to write and record something new. It’s been a long, long time!

If you have read my previous post about Twitter, you will know by now that I am most definitely a Twitter advocate. Without Twitter, I would not have discovered Musicians Together and Mark and I would have never joined forces. I help raise awareness of his website and he in turn helps to direct custom my way. It’s a win-win and again is down to Twitter.

What are your thoughts on music communities? Are you a member of one?