DAVENPORT, IOWA (January 31, 2023) — The board of directors and staff of Common Chord are introducing two additions to the non-profit’s staff. Steve Ahrens assumes the newly-created role of Director of Strategic Initiatives, and Angela Fisher serves as the organization’s new Events Manager.
“Common Chord has experienced significant growth and evolution in recent years, and we have greatly expanded our community impact during that time,” said Tyson Danner, Executive Director. “These positions represent our commitment to continuing that growth trajectory and expanding our programming and overall organizational strength.”
Ahrens previously served as the Director of Alumni and Parent Relations at St Ambrose University and most recently as the Executive Officer for Davenport’s Riverfront Improvement Commission. He served as Alderman at Large on the Davenport City Council from 2001 to 2005.
“As someone who continues to be passionate about our community, I’m thrilled to join the talented staff of Common Chord, which has been providing tremendous musical experiences for the last nineteen years, and to have the opportunity to contribute to making it even stronger for the next twenty and beyond,” said Steve Ahrens. Ahrens’ role is new for the organization and will be focused on special projects, growth, and community relationships.
Angela Fisher has a long history with the Davenport non-profit. “After over a decade of volunteering and then working as a part-time employee for the organization, I am excited to be taking on a more active role. I am looking forward to working with an amazing team of staff, board members, musicians, and volunteers as we build a stronger community through the power of music.”
Fisher manages special event rentals of the non-profit’s facility. Common Chord facilities are available to rent for weddings, corporate events, parties, and more. Rentable spaces include the Redstone Room, the Community Hall, and the full second floor space. All proceeds from special-event rentals contribute to funding Common Chord’s mission and programs.
Common Chord builds on its history
In 2004, the organization housed in the Redstone building in downtown Davenport first opened its doors as the “River Music Experience” — a museum about American roots music. In the nearly twenty years since, it has grown far larger and more impactful, featuring a host of concerts and educational programs that have established its place in the cultural landscape of the Quad Cities and as a leader of the regional music scene.
Common Chord continues its long-standing live music concerts in the Redstone Room and the Live@Five summer concert series. It has expanded into more diverse programming in recent years, including a variety of concerts highlighting the talent of the Quad Cities jazz, hip hop, and EDM scenes, and creating opportunities for developing professional musicians through its Music at the Market and Community Stage programs.
Educational programs remain a key focus for Common Chord, including the RiverCurrents school program that teaches elementary students the history of American music; and the Acoustic Music Club, which provides accessible music enrichment for youth and adults with disabilities. The InTune Music Mentorship program provides opportunities for long-term relationships and access to musical experiences for youth at Project Renewal, the MLK Center in Rock Island, and Boys and Girls Club of Moline.
The OneSound Piano Project (which will return this summer) and The Echo website (TheEchoQC.com) create greater public awareness and advocacy for the Quad Cities regional music scene and creative economy.
To learn how to support Common Chord through the Front Row monthly giving program, visit commonchordqc.org/support.
Common Chord is a non-profit organization that builds community with the power of music. We envision a community where music connects, enriches, and inspires all Quad Citizens. We support local musicians and build our local scene, create connection and community, ensure accessible and inclusive experiences, and advocate for the power of music. For further information about Common Chord’s vision, priorities, and programming, visit commonchordqc.org.
