Olympia Music History Project

An ongoing interview series about the people, places, and music of Olympia, WA.

Our research explores the important history of Olympia music between 1980-2002 and includes collected oral histories, original artwork, photos, and other ephemera of people, places, and events. In 2022-23, our research team organized 26 interviews with and between people who were active in the Olympia music community during our chosen timeframe.

These conversations are available as audio files and written transcripts.

Olympia Music History Project is a growing community archive and we welcome your stories and additions.

If you have something to share, please let us know.

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Map from 1997 Go Olympia walking tour zine. This zine was created as a benefit for Safeplace, and features contributions from 31 Olympia residents who shared some of their favorite places in town.

Explore Music Interviews

This first series of oral history interviews took place during 2022-2023. The following participants share their stories about the Olympia independent music community from 1980-2002.

Explore All Interviews

Ryan Von Bargen

Ryan Von Bargen interviewed by John Shultz on February 11th, 2023

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Kathi Wilcox

Kathi Wilcox interviewed by Hayes Waring on February 2, 2023

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Pat Maley

Pat Maley interviewed by Markly Morrison on March 5, 2023

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John Foster

John Foster Interviewed by Markly Morrison at KXXO on February 11th, 2023

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Jon Merithew

Jon Merithew interviewed by John Shultz on February 21, 2023

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Mirah

Mirah Yom Tov Zeitlyn interviewed by Ali Baker on February 16, 2023

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Olympia Music
History Project

Documenting the music history of Olympia, WA from 1980-2002.

An ongoing interview series about the people, places, and music of Olympia, WA.