Local music media production group Valley Sessions is closing out its second season with a music festival at The Hood on Sunday, Dec. 1.
Founded in 2022 by New Mexico State University digital film making alumnus Ryan M. Robson, Valley Sessions is a volunteer-driven community project that combines his passion for music and filmmaking to showcase contemporary musical artists. Robson drew inspiration from watching NPR Tiny Desk, Mahogany and AudioTree when he was younger.
“Seeing musicians play became so fascinating to me,” Robson said. “It’s like I’ve created a platform for my own private concerts,” he added with a laugh.
Unlike traditional studios in the area, Valley Sessions uses the unique landscapes and textures of Las Cruces as its backdrop. Filming locations have included train yards, trailers and even the old skating rink on Picacho (now Cruces Total Golf).
Despite challenges, Robson has kept the interest of the Las Cruces community a priority. As the film industry here grows, he aims to give the city an opportunity to get behind his project and establish a strong local presence before outside companies emerge.
“I want there to be no question about what we want our city to feel like, what we want it to look like and what we want it to sound like,” Robson said.
To bring this vision to life and honor the project’s accomplishments, Valley Sessions is hosting a music festival at The Hood on Sunday, Dec. 1, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will feature seven musical acts including the Pie Sisters from El Paso, Texas, and Sean Lucy from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Robson said even more people wanted to come out but could not be accommodated.
“I think it goes to show we made really good relationships with these artists,” Robson said.
Blending community spirit with a creative atmosphere, the event offers an opportunity to celebrate and nurture the vibrant culture of Las Cruces. Tickets are now on sale for $10 and $15 at the door on the day of the festival.
I just want people to show up,” Robson said. “Together we could make this a beautiful, annual thing.”
Follow Valley Sessions:
-
-
-
-
-
