Growing the Next Generation of Musicians in Mason City

Written By: Bridgette Exman Dunn, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Mason City Community School District

In Mason City, music has always been more than entertainment—it’s part of who we are. From our deeply-rooted performance traditions to the thriving arts culture that continues to shape our community today, music connects people, helps us tell our stories, and adds an intangible richness to everyday life.

Through community efforts like Teen Jams at Brix Wine & Whiskey and the resurrection of the Battle of the Bands, we’re creating meaningful opportunities for young musicians to step into the spotlight, find their voices, and feed the invisible energy that makes a city a community.

These opportunities are about more than performances—they’re a pathway to a shared identity and sense of belonging that is necessary in a life well-lived.

Teen Jams offer a welcoming, low-pressure environment where students can experiment, collaborate, and gain confidence and trust in their own musicianship. For many, it’s their first experience performing outside of a school setting or for an authentic audience. It’s where possibility turns into reality, and where potential begins to take shape.

Battle of the Bands builds on that momentum. Students take the stage not just to perform, but to showcase their identity and individuality as artists. They receive feedback from experienced musicians and community members, connect with local venues, and begin to see what a future in music—or simply a lifelong passion for it—could look like right here where we live.

Just as importantly, these events are helping to build something that makes Mason City special - an intergenerational connection.

When young musicians perform, they’re not just playing for their peers. They’re playing for a community that understands and values music. Local artists, venue owners, and longtime supporters of the arts are showing up, offering encouragement, and passing along their knowledge. In those moments, something powerful happens—tradition meets new energy, and the future of our local music scene becomes a shared investment.

As a school district, we are deeply committed to helping students see a bright future for themselves right here in Mason City. That means preparing them for meaningful careers, but also connecting them to the outstanding recreational opportunities our community offers and helping them find their place in this place we call home.

When students find a place to express themselves, when they feel seen and supported, and when they recognize that their community is cheering them on, they begin to understand that Mason City isn’t just where they grew up—it’s a place they can thrive.

By investing in young musicians today, we’re not only preserving our rich musical heritage—we’re ensuring it continues to grow, evolve, and inspire for generations to come.

Teen Jams, hosted at Brix Wine & Whiskey, typically take place on the first Sunday of each month from 2:00–5:00 PM. During this time, the venue is open to all ages, with no alcohol served, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for young musicians. Students are invited to show up, plug in, and take the stage—often alongside friends and people who quickly become friends. Local musicians are there as well, offering guidance, encouragement, and real-world insight into creating and performing music.

Building on that energy, Battle of the Bands will return for the first time in decades on Saturday, May 2nd at 2:00 PM at the Southbridge Mall Indoor Pavilion.

Five student acts will take the stage, competing for a professional recording session donated by Isaacson Audio and a featured performance slot at Band Festival—one of Mason City’s most iconic music traditions. >>CLICK HERE to learn more.