Don Pitts

Don Pitts is the Founder of Sound Music Cities, which finds practical solutions to sound issues and grows music economies for entertainment cities across the country. Before that, he spent 30 years working in the music and entertainment industry, notably as head of the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department’s Music and Entertainment Division. There, he spearheaded the regulatory reform effort and developed a new way of understanding sound and noise ordinances. This resulted in the reduction of music complaints 70% during his tenure, and his nickname, “The Sound Whisperer.”

When it comes to the music industry, this Nashville-born Austinite has done it all, including managing bands and venues, handling entertainment relations for Gibson Guitar, co-founding the North American Music Cities Summit, and working in the public sector. This unique background informs Don’s ability to balance the needs of the music industry with those of the community; his policies and recommendations support musicians and venues, as well as businesses and residents. 

After just one conversation with Don, it will become evident that he has a special combination of political know-how, street-smarts and active listening skills—three crucial parts of connecting the dots in a large music ecosystem project. He always brings a fresh, unbiased perspective and listens for patterns and themes unique to the city. Above all else, Don works alongside clients as a partner, digging deep into the foundational issues that make or break a sound music economy. Driven by the belief that venues and neighborhoods can and should coexist, he’ll give a clear and actionable path forward.

When he’s not advising cities on music-related business or devoting his time to enhancing the quality of the Austin music(ian) experience, Don is adding to his collection of rare and vintage western shirts.