The IMT Des Moines Marathon and Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC) are teaming to present live music along the race route and at the event finish line.
Music is not something most people consider when considering an event like the IMT Des Moines Marathon, but Mickey Davis and the DMMC plan to change that. “Many runners use music to motivate themselves or help pass the miles, but live entertainment is key on race day,” says Davis, “While running a marathon, there are times when the mind tells you that you cannot go on. In these moments, nothing changes your mind more than a band playing, crowds cheering, or people dancing!”
Returning athletes can expect to see some of their favorites along the route. Tubabu, a West African drum ensemble, will perform near both the start and finish lines again, while runners will find John Burns singing in front of the Art Center. Other returning artists include The Tubador, who will inspire runners with his tuba around mile 4, and the Urbandale Community Jazz Band, who will perform in Water Works Park.
Musical genres include acoustic guitar, classic rock, bluegrass, and youth cover bands. Some play regularly throughout the state, while others play only one gig yearly; the IMT Des Moines Marathon.
What keeps so many of these acts coming back year after year? Ben Williams, an IMT DMM half marathon athlete and course musician with his band Truth Be Told, explains: “It’s great to have people appreciate what you’re doing, to hear them yell out their appreciation as they run or walk by, or to hear later, ‘Hey, I saw you play on the marathon route. That was awesome!’”
This year’s IMT Des Moines Marathon occurs throughout downtown Des Moines on Sunday, October 15. We seek musicians, performers, and acts diverse in style and genre for this year’s event. To apply, click here.
Submissions are due April 28. Selected acts will be notified by the end of May.
NOTE: On-course entertainment will need to provide their speaker / PA. DMMC has some equipment available for check-out, so if you cannot access a PA, please feel free to apply. Finish line bands will perform on a stage with a PA provided by the IMT Des Moines Marathon. This event is rain or shine.
The DMMC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and collaborative movement committed to building a more robust and diverse music community in greater Des Moines. Through our mission to support and cultivate Iowa’s music economy, our vision is to establish and maintain Des Moines as a nationally recognized music city; for more information, including the 80/35 Music Festival, click here.
The IMT Des Moines Marathon advocates for individuals who actively participate in their health and wellness by engaging, coordinating, and providing community-related running events and initiatives.
