Jen Picard

California lawmakers are working to finalize the state’s budget ahead of the June 15 deadline, as various interest groups call on the legislature to preserve funding. One of the items that may be on the chopping block is funding for arts and culture, which advocates say has been stagnant for decades. The California Arts Council was founded 50 years ago and is the state’s only public arts grant provider, with money accessible to all 58 counties.

California lawmakers are working to finalize the state’s budget ahead of the June 15 deadline, as various interest groups call on the legislature to preserve funding. One of the items that may be on the chopping block is funding for arts and culture, which advocates say has been stagnant for decades. The California Arts Council was founded 50 years ago and is the state’s only public arts grant provider, with money accessible to all 58 counties.

What does it take to keep a music project fresh and relevant? How do you maintain creativity and continue to evolve? The folks behind the Northern California band Misner & Smith know a thing or two about it. For nearly two decades, Sam Misner and Megan Smith have been recording and performing beautifully crafted songs with soaring harmonies. They will make their first appearance at The Sofia in Sacramento this Saturday, May 30. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.