Joe Rinaldi Appointed President of NIVA California

The National Independent Venue Association of California (NIVA CA) has announced Joe Rinaldi as its new President, effective immediately. He succeeds former co-presidents Gabe Docto, Jim Cornett, and Josh Lieberman.

Backstory:

• Rinaldi is the managing partner of San Diego’s Music Box, and the national buyer for the city’s Mission Bayfest festival.

• He has served as NIVA’s Southern California Advocate since 2021.

• Rinaldi also spent time as the talent buyer and general manager of The Viper Room in West Hollywood, and as the talent buyer for West Hollywood’s House of Blues, the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, and 4th & B in San Diego.

Moving forward:

• NIVA CA has outlined four strategic areas of focus for 2026.

• The first is strengthening its organizational infrastructure to achieve self-sufficiency.

• The second is unifying the 630-plus independent venues and promoters across California into a singular voice.

• Prioritizing ticketing legislation that protects fans and venues from predatory secondary market practices is the third area.

• Establishing a dedicated California Music Office to provide economic support and resources for the music industry is the fourth.

What they said:

• Joe Rinaldi: “Independent venues are the heartbeat of California’s culture and economy. After years of advocating for our community in Southern California, I am honored to lead the statewide effort to ensure our industry not only survives but thrives. Our mission is clear: we must unite our 630-plus qualifying venues, promoters, and festivals to become a self-sufficient force for change.”