Why the Quad Cities Favorite Music Resource Is Changing Its Name

Less than a month ago, the Quad Cities had to get used to a new name for a music venue when the TaxSlayer Center became The Vibrant Arena at The Mark.  Now, a city-wide music resource is also changing its name, and the RME will be no more.

The River Music Experience

In 2004, the River Music Experience housed in the Redstone building in downtown Davenport opened its doors as a museum about American roots music. Since then, it has grown larger featuring concerts and educational programs.

“Our programs and mission have grown so much, even through the pandemic,” said Ross Carlson, current board chairman. “Today, we have reached an important step in the maturity of the organization. Our mission is clear, our programs are strong, and we are financially sustainable. We decided it was time our name caught up to who we are today, not what we were twenty years ago.”

The River Music Experience will now be known as...

The new name for the RME as of September 14, 2022, is "Common Chord" and will use the tag line “More Music. More Community.”

According to Tyson Danner, Executive Director of Common Chord, the fresh look and evolution are all about being more inclusive and better connecting how the organization is focused on amplifying the power of music to build connections and strengthen community.

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“Music is a universal language. It is something we all have in common. It has the power to connect and unite us as individuals and as a community,” said Tyson Danner, Executive Director. “Collaboration through music builds togetherness and enriches the lives of all Quad Citizens. We are dedicated to bringing people together through music – that’s what ‘Common Chord’ communicates.”

Newer Music Programs for the entire community.

There are plenty of music programs that River Music Experience has implemented, now Common Chord including, the "OneSound Piano Project" which has placed pianos in public spaces throughout the region at locations like Niabi Zoo, the Quad Cities International Airport, and the Freight House Farmers’ Market.

Speaking of the Farmer's Market, Music at the Market features local musicians performing at the “Common Chord Stage” each weekend.

Another thing Common Chord will continue is its youth music programs including "InTune Music Mentoring".  InTune mentors visit weekly with students in after-school community centers.

You can learn more about Common Chord, including the Community Jam Session taking place September 18 at the Davenport Freight House parking lot, at its new website commonchordqc.org