Turkey River Arts and Music and Iowa Project Aware to hold music event on Thursday, July 16th

Turkey River Arts and Music Created to Strengthen Community Through Arts and Music

Elkader, Iowa – July 10, 2026 – A new nonprofit organization based out of Elkader called Turkey River Arts and Music (TRAM), officially launched this summer with a mission to bring people together across the Turkey River Valley through arts and music.

Founded by local and NE Iowa residents, TRAM will focus on making arts experiences accessible to all ages and backgrounds along the Turkey River Valley.

“No matter if you live in a big town or rural community, music and the arts bring people together,” said Brian Gibbs, Executive Director of TRAM. “We’ve created this nonprofit to give people a place to learn, perform, collaborate, and celebrate the arts and connections to this beautiful river valley in rural Northeast Iowa. 

Year 1 goals include:

• Community Events: Free concerts, open mic nights, and seasonal art showcases in downtown Elkader

• Education & Workshops: Hands-on classes for instruments, songwriting, visual arts, and audio production for adults and youth

• Youth & Family Outreach: Partnering with local schools and the library to expand access for kids

• Support for Local Artists: Performance opportunities and resources for musicians and artists in Clayton County

The organization is co-hosting a free show in collaboration with Iowa Project AWARE on July 16th at the Elkader Opera House. Iowa music icon Dave Moore will be playing his folk and country music. Doors open at 7pm and the music starts at 7:30pm

For more information on upcoming events and ways to support this community based nonprofit organization please visit www.turkeyrivermusicartsandmusic.org