I think of artists as kind of the cat whiskers of our society. They're often out there a little further, reporting back what's happening in the places we haven't quite arrived yet. The art that makes us feel so alive comes from people who have put themselves out there and made themselves vulnerable: emotionally, and often economically.  

When disaster strikes, it hits arts communities particularly hard. Concerts were one of the first things to go when the pandemic arrived, and they'll probably be one of the last to come back. 

I put on concerts here because I love this music, and the community that both sustains and creates it. We all built this little world by playing and loving and supporting this music; by going to camps and shows and passing on tunes and songs. It's survival is going to come from us helping each other through this, and I've already seen so many inspiring ways in which this community has adapted to do that. 

The Log On Festival/Fundraiser is a way to help the musicians who have played here at Frontier Home survive until we can all gather again in person. It's a one-day online event featuring a few of the incredible folks who have offered shows or workshops here. It's a morning of workshops where you can learn singing, dance, or an instrument from some truly world-class musicians. And then a concert in the evening featuring some equally stunning folks. There's going to be an original stop motion animation made just for this festival by West of Roan, and even a cooking class so you can enjoy some Frontier Home-style tacos and feel like you're here. I've also reached out to everyone who has played here and made a resource directory of the classes, merch, and online concerts they are offering during this time. Kaley and I are both doing online lessons (I'm doing three); they're both effective, fun, and a great way to keep musicians employed.

My goal is to raise at least $3k through this festival and distribute it in mini-grants of $250 to artists who have played here. I'm kicking in myself, and as always, 100% goes to the musicians. If you're in a position to help, there has never been a more important time to do so.

You can buy a ticket to the workshops, or donate via PayPal here. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being part of this community. I can't wait to stand very close to all of you here when this is over. In the meantime, look forward to seeing you online for the Log On Festival! 

Ian