Remarkably, we are now seven weeks into this new social distancing way of life. There has been a lot of hardship, confusion, fear, and sadness that we have all had to process and learn to cope with. There have also been a number of things that I find myself feeling extremely grateful for, including being part of the 317 community which has proven to be so strong, resilient, and supportive of one another.
As we have adjusted to the unprecedented impacts of this global pandemic, music has proven to be a tonic for the soul and a unifier world-wide, as well as in the local community! I am so grateful to the teaching artists, staff, and board of 317 Main for tirelessly doing all of the work necessary to adapt to a stay-at-home economy, and to all of the musicians for continuing to want to play music and support the organization.
We are being challenged by the COVID-19 health crisis, just like everybody else. But true to our core, 317 continues to work hard to adapt and offer programming that is engaging and relevant in people’s lives during the lockdown. Hundreds of “zoom” lessons are still being taught each week. Musicians can sign up for virtual Open Mic sessions and workshops. We are continuing to reach dozens of children through free on-line classes/programs as part of our ongoing partnership programs.
We look ahead, optimistically, and are planning for a gradual return to music-making in person with you under the direction of the Governor and public health officials. The future is full of great possibilities and we are grateful to everyone who understands and supports the value of having a 317 in our community.
In the coming weeks, we will be rolling out several fundraising initiatives to help us make up some of the losses that we have experienced this spring resulting from cancelled programs and events.
The first opportunity will be #GivingTunesday2020 scheduled for this coming Tuesday, May 5. Your support, whether it’s a one-time donation or a monthly contribution, will help us stay the course to make sure our music center emerges from the pandemic in good health and ready to meet the community's needs for years to come.
Thanks to all. Stay safe and we hope to see you before too much longer.
