Verdi Chorus carries operatic singers through tumultuous times
Mar. 16, 2021 at 6:00 am
At a time when group singing is a forbidden and dangerous activity, the virtual programming of Santa Monica’s own Verdi Chorus has created a sanctuary for opera singers and appreciators alike.
Facing an indefinite industry shutdown, the chorus has come together to build an artist relief fund and an online concert series featuring some of the most promising professional area singers.
At the helm of this effort is founding Artistic Director Anne Marie Ketchum, who has helped steer the 54 member strong group through 38 seasons. She is organizing a series of musical soirees highlighting the talent and tenacity of opera singers from the choir’s young professional ‘Fox Singers’ program.
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Courtesy/Arts United
Closson sees this is a perfect opportunity for indie artists to take their businesses to the next level.
Credit Courtesy/Arts United
In May of 2020 Arts United and the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne joined forces to create the city s first ever Artist Relief Fund, designed to combat the financial pressures on independent artists & creatives suddenly without income because of shutdowns and closures caused by the corona virus pandemic.
With COVID restrictions still hindering many from returning to work, a second phase has been launched.
Meek is hoping that word of mouth will quickly carry throughout the community to reach new and renewing creatives.
Spread the Music virtual streaming festival teams up with CTAC, Blissfest and Northern Michigan artists
Elizabeth Hosang
Petoskey News-Review
At the start of the pandemic shutdowns, the Artist Relief Fund, started by the Michigan Music Alliance, provided a lifeline for struggling artists.
After raising nearly $40,000 toward the cause, one year later, Michigan Music Alliance is hosting the second annual live stream musical festival tagged “Spread the Music.” This year the festival will be on Facebook Live, March 25-28.
Last year, the festival featured performances by The Accidentals, A Brighter Bloom, Sean Miller, Jake Allen and The Marsupials. The event attracted more than 50,000 viewers.
Local artists show resiliency
COREY MCMAKEN | The Journal Gazette
Local musician Todd Harrold says that, like many people, he had “a real weird year” in 2020 as he wondered how he was going to pay bills, keep his house and support his family. The 56-year-old has relied on drum lessons and music gigs to make a living since 2003.
After the pandemic s initial shutdowns, Harrold was able to play a good number of shows July through October, but then everything started to shut down again as COVID-19 positivity rates increased late in 2020.
An example of his weird year: He recently performed at The Club Room at the Clyde and realized he forgot what order to put everything in the car so all his gear would fit.