Davenport’s Common Chord Introduces Two New Staff Members
The board of directors and staff of Common Chord are introducing two additions to the nonprofit’s staff. Steve
Ahrens assumes the newly–created role of Director of Strategic Initiatives, and Angela Fisher serves as the
organization’s new Events Manager.
“Common Chord has experienced significant growth and evolution in recent years, and we have greatly
expanded our community impact during that time,” said Tyson Danner, Executive Director. “These positions
represent our commitment to continuing that growth trajectory and expanding our programming and overall
organizational strength.”
Ahrens previously served as the Director of Alumni and Parent Relations at St. Ambrose University and most
recently as the Executive Officer for Davenport’s Riverfront Improvement Commission. He served as Alderman
at Large on the Davenport City Council from 2001 to 2005.
“As someone who continues to be passionate about our community, I’m thrilled to join the talented staff of
Common Chord, which has been providing tremendous musical experiences for the last 19 years, and to have
the opportunity to contribute to making it even stronger for the next twenty and beyond,” said Steve Ahrens.
Ahrens’ role is new for the organization and will be focused on special projects, growth, and community
relationships.
Angela Fisher has a long history with the Davenport nonprofit. “After over a decade of volunteering and then
working as a part–time employee for the organization, I am excited to be taking on a more active role. I am
looking forward to working with an amazing team of staff, board members, musicians, and volunteers as we
build a stronger community through the power of music.”
Fisher manages special event rentals of the nonprofit’s facility. Common Chord facilities are available to rent
for weddings, corporate events, parties, and more. Rentable spaces include the Redstone Room, the
Community Hall, and the full second floor space. All proceeds from special event rentals contribute to funding
Common Chord’s mission and programs.
Common Chord builds on its history
In 2004, the organization housed in the Redstone building in downtown Davenport first opened its doors as the
“River Music Experience” – a museum about American roots music. In the nearly twenty years since, it has
grown far larger and more impactful, featuring a host of concerts and educational programs that have
established its place in the cultural landscape of the Quad Cities and as a leader of the regional music scene.
Common Chord continues its long–standing live music concerts in the Redstone Room and the Live@Five
summer concert series. It has expanded into more diverse programming in recent years, including a variety of
concerts highlighting the talent of the Quad Cities jazz, hip hop, and EDM scenes, and creating opportunities
for developing professional musicians through its Music at the Market and Community Stage programs.
Educational programs remain a key focus for Common Chord, including the RiverCurrents school program that
teaches elementary students the history of American music; and the Acoustic Music Club which provides
accessible music enrichment for youth and adults with disabilities. The InTune Music Mentorship program
provides opportunities for long–term relationships and access to musical experiences for youth at Project
Renewal, the MLK Center in Rock Island, and Boys & Girls Club of Moline.
The OneSound Piano Project (which will return this summer) and The Echo website (www.TheEchoQC.com)
create greater public awareness and advocacy for the Quad Cities regional music scene and creative
economy.
