ABSTRACT
The inaugural 2014 Pittonkatonk May Day Brass BBQ created a space where people came together to celebrate the work involved in collectively making music. One of Pittonkatonk’s goals has been to raise awareness about the different kinds of work it takes to produce a live music event and who is involved in the process. The public sphere is shaped in its own spectacular image and the three modes of musicking work – performing, listening, and providing – are estranged from each other and interact under strict market conditions. In 2013, Kenny Chesney, superstar country music singer, performed at Heinz Field on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. His Pittsburgh shows had become infamous for their drunkenness, fighting, garbage, and destruction. They were an example of how the interests of the venue owners and promoters took precedent over the well-being of Pittsburgh city residents.
