 (L-R) TMO Director Chip Adams, Robert Earl Keen, TMO's Steven Ray
ROBERT EARL KEEN NAMED TEXAN OF THE YEAR
Singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen was named the 2026 Texan of the Year by the Texas Legislative Conference on March 26, 2026, during a ceremony at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center. As the 52nd recipient of the honor, Keen was recognized for both his enduring musical legacy and his deep commitment to community service. The award was presented as part of the 60th annual conference, hosted by the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, which brings together leaders from across business and public policy. His selection places him among a distinguished group of past honorees, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon in Texas.
In addition to his artistic contributions, Keen was praised for his leadership in organizing relief efforts following the devastating 2025 Texas floods. He played a key role in coordinating benefit initiatives to support communities across Central Texas, demonstrating a strong commitment to helping those in need. The Texas Music Office contributed to the celebration by coordinating musicians to perform selections from Keen’s extensive catalog, highlighting the lasting impact of his work on the state’s music scene and its cultural identity.
THE FUTURE OF CONJUNTO CONVERGES IN THE RGV
On April 10, the Texas Best Conjunto Competition at Harlingen Municipal Auditorium marked its 10th anniversary, bringing together student musicians from across Texas for a high-energy showcase of talent. Representing Brownsville’s original conjunto showdown, young performers competed in full groups, demonstrating their skills on accordion, bajo sexto, bass, drums, and vocals while honoring the rich traditions of conjunto music.
During the event, Gilbert Reyes Jr., Brand Manager for Hohner, was honored with a commendation from the Governor of Texas for his contributions to preserving and advancing Texas conjunto traditions. The recognition, presented by Steve Ray of the Texas Music Office, held special significance as it took place in Harlingen, Reyes’ hometown. With decades of experience and a deep connection to the accordion, Reyes has played a pivotal role in supporting artists, promoting music education, fostering youth development, and advocating for the growth and inclusion of musicians, especially women, within the conjunto community.
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 (L-R) Allison Harnden, Graham Weber (TMO), Jimmy Wheeler
TEXAS CONTINUES TO LEAD THE CONVERSATION ON MUSIC'S IMPACT ON SOCIAL ECONOMIES
The Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI) Sociable City Summit, held in Nashville from April 12–14, 2026, convened city leaders, planners, and hospitality professionals from across the country and beyond to explore how communities can foster safer, more inclusive, and economically vibrant social environments. Organized by the Responsible Hospitality Institute in partnership with local stakeholders, including the Nashville Mayor’s Office of Nightlife, the summit focused on the growing importance of the social economy, encompassing dining, entertainment, and nightlife, as a key driver of urban vitality and cultural identity. Through workshops, panels, and networking events, attendees examined best practices in public safety, governance, and sustainable nightlife development.
A highlight of the closing day was the panel “Does Your State Need a Music and Social Economy Office?”, featuring TMO’s Graham Weber alongside Jimmy Wheeler (Director - Tennessee Music Office), Allison Harnden (Nighttime Economy Manager - City of Pittsburgh), Michael Rodrigues (24-Hour Economy Commissioner - New South Wales), and Chris Cobb (Executive Director - Music Venue Alliance Nashville). The discussion explored how dedicated offices and leadership roles can support music and hospitality sectors, strengthen local economies, and address the challenges of managing nightlife. Panelists shared insights on policy development, cross-sector collaboration, and strategies for fostering thriving, well-managed social economies.
 TMO's Jaclyn Zapata
TMO AT 10TH ANNUAL REAL PLACES
The Real Places Conference held in Austin beginning on April 8, 2026, marked the 10th annual gathering organized by the Texas Historical Commission. Running from April 8–10 at the Renaissance Austin Hotel, the event brought together historians, architects, planners, museum professionals, and preservation advocates from across the state. It provided a collaborative space for attendees to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and highlight the importance of historic preservation and heritage tourism in Texas communities.
The 2026 conference featured an extensive lineup of workshops, tours, and expert-led sessions focused on education, networking, and practical skill-building. The Texas Music Office was also proud to participate, hosting an informational table where attendees from throughout Texas could learn about key programs such as the Texas Music Friendly Certified Community Program, the Texas Music Incubator Rebate program, and the Texas Music License Plate Grant program. This engagement highlighted the intersection of cultural preservation and the state’s vibrant music industry, adding another dimension to the conference’s mission of celebrating and sustaining Texas heritage.
 (L-R) Rep. Keith Bell (TX District 4), Traci Wilkes (Athens Economic Development Corporation Board & Athens Old Fiddlers Foundation Board of Directors), Mary Ensign (Athens Old Fiddlers Foundation Board of Directors), Athens Mayor Aaron Smith, TMO's Gini Mascorro & Steven Ray (Photo: Sarah Kate Giles)
ATHENS CERTIFIED AS A MUSIC FRIENDLY TEXAS COMMUNITY
The City of Athens was recently designated as the 93rd Music Friendly Texas Certified Community through the Texas Music Office, recognizing its commitment to supporting local musicians, live music venues, and cultural tourism. The certification was formally presented by TMO’s Gini Mascorro and Steve Ray, underscoring the state’s support for Athens’ growing music economy and community-driven cultural initiatives. This designation highlights Athens’ ongoing efforts to foster engagement, preserve its musical heritage, and expand opportunities for artists and audiences alike.
A cornerstone of that heritage is the Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion, which celebrated its 95th anniversary with special recognition from Governor Greg Abbott. In an official letter, the Governor honored the reunion’s longstanding role in preserving traditional fiddle music, strengthening community identity, and contributing to Texas’ broader cultural legacy. Together, the Music Friendly certification and the anniversary recognition highlight Athens’ enduring significance as a hub for music, tradition, and community pride in Texas.
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