Welcome to Music You’re Missing’s Music Industry Experts, a special series of 1:1 interviews with the most influential thought leaders in the music industry. 

In an exclusive interview with host Brendan Jeannetti, Alex Magleby, co-founder and CEO of the New England Free Jacks and founder of the In Between Days Music Festival, shared his insights on using musical performances to grow the audience for the New England Free Jacks, the founding of the In Between Days Festival, and the significance of fostering community.

The Birth of the New England Free Jacks

Before diving into the exciting world of the In Between Days Music Festival, Alex Magleby reflects on the origins of the New England Free Jacks. Founded in 2018, the professional rugby team was driven by a desire to build community through sports and music. Magleby's passion for rugby, having been involved with the sport for much of his life, led him to envision a platform where people could come together, regardless of age or background, to enjoy a visceral and emotional game.

Creating Community Through Rugby and Music

Magleby emphasizes the importance of building an audience and creating a compelling experience. Rugby, being relatively unfamiliar to many in the United States, posed a challenge in terms of exposure. However, Magleby's team embarked on a journey to share the sport's magic with people, leading them to fall in love with rugby and become part of the community. By combining rugby matches with live music performances, the New England Free Jacks revolutionized the sports entertainment landscape and have built a sustainable fan base.

In Between Days Music Festival

In Between Days Music Festival was conceived as a natural extension of the New England Free Jacks' vision to bring the community together. Magleby explains that the festival's name captures the feeling of being in an in-between space, not fully in summer but not yet in fall, where people can come together and celebrate. The festival's unique incorporation of music with art, vintage, and local vendors create a compelling and immersive experience for attendees.

Curating the Festival Lineup

Magleby sheds light on the meticulous curation process for the festival's musical acts. The team strives to include a diverse set of artists that align thematically with the indie vibe. The focus on local and independent artists allows the festival to support up-and-coming talents and provide them with exposure. Magleby encourages artists to reach out, share their music, and build relationships with festival organizers to increase their chances of being part of the lineup.

Expanding the In Between Days: A Growth Mindset

The success of the inaugural In Between Days Music Festival laid the groundwork for expansion. While taking care not to grow too big too fast, Magleby envisions future editions of the festival featuring more days and opportunities for local artists and the community. The ultimate goal is to provide more people with the chance to experience the festival's magic and foster a sense of togetherness.

A Transparent Experience: Eliminating Ticket Fees

One notable aspect of the festival is the decision to eliminate ticket fees, ensuring transparency and providing a straightforward experience for attendees. Magleby believes that such openness fosters trust between the festival and its audience, enhancing the overall sense of community.

In conclusion, Alex Magleby's vision for the In Between Days Music Festival goes beyond just a music event. It represents a powerful concept of community building through shared experiences and accessible opportunities. As the festival continues to evolve and grow, its core values of inclusivity and celebration of diverse talent will remain at the heart of the In Between Days experience.

FOLLOW ALEX MAGLEBY: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmagleby/

FOLLOW IN BETWEEN DAYS MUSIC FESTIVAL:

https://www.instagram.com/inbetweendaysfestival/

FOLLOW MUSIC YOU’RE MISSING:
https://www.musicyouremissing.org/

FOLLOW BRENDAN JEANNETTI: 
https://www.instagram.com/brendanjeannetti/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendanjeannetti/