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The Momentary Crystal Bridges

The Momentary Announces RØDE Microphones as a Founding Funder

The Momentary, a contemporary arts satellite to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, announced that RØDE Microphones, an audio company based in Sydney, Australia, is among its founding funders with RØDE’s commitment of a $1 million gift. As part of this collaboration, the Momentary, slated to open in 2020, will name its indoor concert venue the RØDE House.

The collaboration was announced on the occasion of a visit from RØDE founder and president Peter Freedman AM to Northwest Arkansas earlier this week, in the company of the Australian Ambassador to the United States, the Hon. Joe Hockey, to discuss cultural exchange between Australia and Northwest Arkansas.

“I first visited this area of the US a little over a year ago, and was struck by the vibrancy and growth of the region,” said Freedman. “Meeting with the Walton family was a genuine highlight.  I have always had a keen interest in supporting the arts, both in my business and philanthropic activities, a focus that aligned perfectly with the work of the Walton Family Foundation. The success of Crystal Bridges is a testament to their commitment, and the plans for the Momentary are an exciting next step that I am proud to support, bringing a little bit of Australia to Northwest Arkansas!”

“RØDE is a great Australian success story, fueled by the ambition and courage of Peter Freedman,” said Ambassador Hockey.  I commend his generous gift which will see the RØDE House concert venue come to life in 2020. Like Northwest Arkansas and the Walton Family, Australia places innovation and creativity at the heart of community life, inspiring the people who call that place home. I look forward to what the Momentary offers for years to come.”

Beyond funding for program support, RØDE Microphones will be providing audio equipment to assist musicians, sound artists, and media teams with live concerts, audio installations, event streaming, and podcasts.

“The Momentary is excited to announce this partnership,” said Momentary director Lieven Bertels. “RØDE is a brand trusted by many of our artists and we welcome their support, which will help us build a great performing arts and music program. It’s wonderful to collaborate with a company that has creativity and innovation at its core. We are truly grateful for Peter Freedman’s visionary leadership in this field, and happy to be working with his team.”

The Momentary will open to the public in early 2020, with a preview concert in the fall of 2019. More information and season announcements will be coming soon. Follow the Momentary on social media for updates:

For information about the Momentary, visit the website here. For Enewsletter updates, sign up for the Momentary interest.