WMUR: NEMRF effort to distribute 300,000 to artists out of work

https://www.wmur.com/article/fundraising-effort-for-musicians-hopes-to-distribute-dollar300000-to-artists-out-of-work/34994588

MANCHESTER, N.H. —

When theaters and venues closed their doors in March, musicians were left scrambling to figure out how to survive financially. A new fund hopes to keep New England musicians afloat and is looking for the public’s help.

For musicians in the New England region, Mar. 11 is when the music stopped. Since then the New England Musicians Relief Fund was established by a collaboration of artists. A non-profit providing a safety net for all performers.

“On that day, every few minutes we were hearing more about concerts being canceled and more musicians who were immediately out of work,” New England Musicians Relief Fund Board Member Gabe Langfur said.

“All of the venues were calling and saying we can’t do anything, so that was the last time I worked, which was in March,” musician Bill Staines said.

Those involved with the fund are hoping to raise $300,000 in donations and distribute those funds as soon as possible.

If you are interested in donating or signing up for an application visit NEMRF.org/apply.