Patrick Harrington was tired of attending the same events in Baton Rouge when he became an event coordinator in January 2013.
As event coordinator for the live music and art showcase, “The Bando,” Harrington aims to provide a space for local artists and music acts to perform.
Previously known as “After 9,” the event became “The Bando” in 2014. Featuring local talent, the showcase takes place once a month at Spanish Moon. Harrington’s next event is scheduled Friday, where local disc jockeys such as DJ DTK and Dan Lion will be on the turn tables.
“In Baton Rouge, there’s either white clubs or black clubs,” Harrington said. “I want to bring everyone under one roof.”
From rap to electronic sounds, a variety of genres are played at Harrington’s events.
“My events are for the hipsters and anyone who loves music,” Harrington said. “It doesn’t matter who you are, just come around something positive.”
Harrington said local nightlife is restricted and exclusive. Bars and clubs limit their audiences to small groups of people, making it harder for everyone to feel welcome, he said.
“If your dress code is from the floor to the ceiling, then you shouldn’t have a club,” he said.
At his events, Harrington hopes to create an inclusive and down-to-earth environment. He said the people who come to his events can wear what they want and be who they want.
To promote his events, Harrington uses “crazy fliers,” containing images such as awkward family photos and portraits from the ’80s and ’90s. While the photos are unrelated to the advertised event, Harrington hopes to catch viewer’s attention while scrolling through social media.
Outside of music and events, Harrington manages his father’s business, Choices Salon Suites. While at the salon, he balances managerial work and event planning. He maintains constant communication with potential business partners and promotes his events through social media.
In the future, Harrington plans to take “The Bando” out of Baton Rouge. Harrington said his goal is to travel outside the state within the next four months and out of the country in the next year.
Harrington also manages local artists such as Dylan Fresina, DQ Rogers and Michael Armstead. Harrington said he acts as a consultant by listening to the artists’ music, discussing their plans and helping them book shows.
“I like to help people,” Harrington said. “If I think you’re good, I’m going to help you.”

Gallery • 2 Photos

Jake Bonin

Baton Rouge event coordinator and music manager, Patrick Harrington speaks about his business ventures on Nov. 21, 2016 at Highland Coffees on Highland Rd.