Finley to guide Kentucky chapter of music venue advocacy group

Christopher Harris, Commonwealth Journal, Somerset, Ky.
·2 min read

Apr. 17—Somerset's Tiffany Finley has made a career out of the support of music. Now she gets to help the beat go on in a new way.

Finley was recently appointed as president of the Kentucky Chapter of NIVA (the National Independent Venue Association).

Finley has been the executive director of Somerset's Master Musicians Festival since 2020, but was president of the MMF board for a decade before that, helping lead it to ever-growing heights and attracting a steady stream of big-name performers to the outdoor music event located behind Somerset Community College.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead NIVA Kentucky and to work alongside such dedicated individuals," said Finley in a statement. "We look forward to connecting Kentucky's independent venues and festivals on a united front to advocate for our industry and ensure its continued success."

Specifically, Finley was honored to be the first-ever president of NIVA's Kentucky chapter. NIVA was formed following the interruption music venues faced as a result of Covid concerns, to help those operating as independent operations survive and thrive.

"There was a southeast chapter that covered several states, and now several of the states are breaking up into their own chapters," Finley told the Commonwealth journal.

NIVA brings entities together to advocate for what's important to independent venues, from networking opportunities to legislative issues, noted Finley.

"It's just a chance for us all to join our efforts and speak in one voice," she said.

Finley believes her experience guiding MMF led to her being chosen for the leadership position.

"(It's likely due to) the fact that I have festival experience, especially in the non-profit world, and also now my management background for my artist management company," she said, referring to Black Mountain Management, which sees Finley work with artists such as Bee Taylor and Eric Bolander.

Visiting smaller venues have helped MMF identify talent over the years, to identify "what other people are doing, what works in other markets, and being able to compare," said Finley. "We can (also) let them know what we've been doing here in Somerset."

One of those things that Somerset has done is renovate the old Virginia Cinema into a live music venue. Finley noted that The Virginia has recently joined NIVA as well.

"My goal is to build up the Kentucky chapter," said Finley. "We currently do not have any kind of association that brings us together ... with our peers and learn."

Independent venues, promoters, and festivals in Kentucky interested in learning more about joining NIVA can learn more at https://www.nivassoc.org/join.