ZACC iNet Radio: All Local, All The Time

Missoula, Montana's Zootown Arts Community Center has launched an online radio station featuring only local artists, the first Missoula station to be so bold, according to a story by Lindsey Galipeau and Keila Szpaller of the Missoulian.

"It's a way to get people a local art experience without necessarily having to go to the ZACC," said executive director Michael Gardner. "It's a way to kind of spread the local art love throughout Missoula."

ZACC is a nonprofit community center that focuses on art education, sustainable community development and accessible art experiences. Listen to the new station by clicking here and hear tunes from Missoula's Volumen, Bob Wire, Amy Martin, Tyson Ballew and Pterodactyl Plains.

"It's a good mix of local musicians, from independent artists to those who have played out in the bars for a long time," said Gardner, who is hoping other musicians will offer permission for the ZACC to play their music in the new venue.

The idea for a new radio station, fostered within ZACC's walls, took flight this spring. Gardner said it's a supplement to the ZACC's other offerings, such as pottery classes, music shows and a shop featuring goods made by local artists.

"People are really into it," Gardner said of the station. "The cool thing is there's certainly local radio stations, but nobody is playing (local music exclusively), and local art is what we're all about."

DJ Matt Riley at non-com at 89.9 FM KBGA says the local angle is an important one to listeners in Missoula. And Riley, who did an Americorps internship at the ZACC last year, said the center plays a large role in connecting artists with a community.

Read More.