Creating Harmony in the Chaotic Brilliance of Big Ears Festival

peer artists playing and say, ‘Hey, I want to play with you.’ A lot of what happens that’s outside of what you would think of what a traditional conference or festival is really the artists themselves and their relationships with each other. It’s people bouncing ideas off each other and saying, ‘Hey, you want to play?’ ‘Yeah, let’s do it.’ And then that’s how it happens. It’s very natural.

When it comes to the festival’s offerings and curation, Big Ears operates on a principle of artistic quality and creativity. Bryan Crow emphasizes that the festival is not about political statements, skin color, or external factors, but solely focuses on the quality, creativity, and depth of the artists’ work. By providing a platform for artists to express themselves freely, Big Ears values the art itself above all else.

Crow stresses that inclusivity is key at Big Ears. Artists are not excluded based on uncontrollable characteristics or differing opinions. The festival is a shared space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together, share their experiences, and discover commonalities. While discussions and differing opinions may arise, the festival aims to foster an environment where people can find common ground and engage in meaningful dialogue.

The curation process at Big Ears involves a close-knit team led by Ashley Capps, the festival’s founder, and Bryan Crow. Together with their booking administrator, Morgan Fleming, they carefully select artists and develop lineups that reflect their eclectic tastes and deep appreciation for music and culture. This process unfolds organically, with threads and themes emerging naturally over time.

One of the festival’s unique aspects is the unexpected collaborations that occur between artists. From the Sun Ra Orchestra performing with Yo La Tengo to musicians like Shazad Ismaily joining different acts on stage, these collaborations bring a new dimension to the festival experience. While some partnerships are planned, many happen spontaneously as artists interact and share ideas with one another.

As Big Ears continues to evolve, the festival seeks to strike a balance between stability and tradition while also showcasing new voices and emerging talents. Artists like Jules Riley and Wendy Eisenberg, who have recently entered the scene, are given a platform alongside established acts, enriching the festival’s lineup with a diverse array of voices and perspectives. By staying attuned to the zeitgeist and maintaining a deep curiosity for what’s happening in the music landscape, Big Ears remains a beacon for artistic exploration and discovery.