ATLANTA – State Representative Carl Gilliard (D-Savannah) was recently elected chairman of the Savannah Music Commission during its first official meeting. The meeting began with commission members being sworn in by Judge Joe Huffman, followed by the election of officers to lead the body. Joining Rep. Gilliard in leadership are Matt Campbell as vice chairman, Mary Armstrong Dugas as secretary and Trey Myers as treasurer.
“It is an honor to be elected chairman of the Savannah Music Commission and to help lead this important new chapter for our city’s creative community,” said Rep. Gilliard. “Savannah has long been a hub for music and culture, and this commission will give us the opportunity to strengthen that legacy. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that Savannah’s music industry continues to thrive for generations to come.”
The Savannah Music Commission was established through House Bill 762, which Rep. Gilliard sponsored during the 2025 legislative session. Signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp on May 1, 2025, the commission is charged with advancing Savannah’s music industry by promoting local events, supporting musicians and fostering collaboration among artists, venues and the broader creative community.
The Savannah Music Commission will also focus on areas including music education, supporting independent venues and recording studios, strengthening live performance opportunities and connecting Georgia’s music and film industries through post-production opportunities.
For questions regarding the Savannah Music Commission, please contact Rep. Gilliard at 404-656-7859.
Representative Carl Gilliard represents the citizens of District 162, which includes a portion of Chatham County. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and currently serves as Secretary of the Creative Arts & Entertainment. He also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Economic Development, Insurance, Natural Resources & Environment, Reapportionment and Redistricting and Transportation committees.
###