Fair, 32.0° F
A message for our readers
The Galena Gazette is providing all of its news stories and photos of the COVID-19 pandemic with no payment required as a public service and in an effort so you can be totally knowledgeable as to how the pandemic affects you. Please consider a print or online subscription to support this vital reporting by a locally owned business .
Musicians to offer outdoor performances
GALENA–With the onset of COVID-19 and shelter in place restrictions, local musicians have experienced lost wages due to area music venues being closed down and cancelling performances throughout the summer months.
For many musicians, these performances are their only source of income.
As live music has always been an integral part of the community, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, Kara Gordon and Robyn Davis began thinking of ways to keep music alive in the Galena area during social distancing.
The two local musicians have put together a new program called “Backyard Stage” to bring music back to the Galena area. “It’s a way to keep our local musicians connected to the community during these difficult times,” said Davis. “If people can’t go out and see live music, let’s bring live music to them!”
Backyard Stage will offer artists with a variety of musical styles including bluegrass, country, folk, Americana, alternative and rock.
Participating musicians include Scott Rische, Ardy Michaels, Kara Gordon, Lenny Wayne Hosey, Robyn Davis and Ted Williams, Pearl Breitbach and Scott Guthrie (Medicinal Purposes), L.A. Suess, Garrett Hillary, Marty Raymon, River Breitbach, Jimmy Berg and Dave Pingel (Kampfire Kings), Colleen Nielson and Phil Sullivan (The Resistors).
“This is a unique opportunity. Folks can hire their favorite local musicians to bring music to their doorstep!” explains Gordon. “We will help them schedule a one-hour live show in their yard for a fee of $50 per musician (plus any tips earned during the show). All they have to do is supply an extension cord, sit back and relax. The musician supplies the fun!”
All proceeds and tips will be given to the musicians to make up for lost wages or the musicians can donate the monies to a charity of their choice,” Gordon continued.
The Backyard Stage performances are designed to be small, intimate gatherings.
Everyone hosting a gathering will be advised to maintain social distancing, sitting six to 10 feet apart, to keep the gatherings small and to be conscientious of noise levels.
For further information or to schedule a performance, contact Gordon at 309-738-0503 or Davis at 608-469-1195.