The Midwest Music Foundation staff constantly works behind the scenes at live music events you have likely attended. They’re the ones who search for facilities, supply entertainment, coordinate with vendors, and generally ensure that your live music experience will be a good one. They’re also the ones that get the word out about musicians’ health care and other educational resources for musicians, filling a vital gap in the community.
Before the advent of the sixth annual Apocalypse Meow benefit, we hear back from some of the staff to find out what they do and why they do it. Our first spotlight is on Sondra Freeman, Director of Promotions and Artist Relations.
The Deli: When and how did you first get involved with MMF?
Sondra: I met Rhonda [Lyne] at an event while buying raffle tickets from her. She explained what they were doing and I said I wanted to volunteer IMMEDIATELY, if not sooner. 🙂
The Deli: What is your current role with the organization?
Sondra: I handle all of the booking for fundraising events and serve as a liaison between the artist and the foundation. I am also in charge of radio, print, and television promotion, though I think they should find someone much more attractive to do television.
The Deli: Why is MMF such an important cause to you? What do you hope it will accomplish in the future?
Sondra: MMF is important to me because I simply believe that musicians who remain true to their craft and make the sacrifices necessary to perfect it are worth taking care of. My ultimate goal is to be a small part of making being a musician a viable occupation. Imagine your life without music. I can’t.
The Deli: Who are some of your favorite local artists?
Sondra: Did you really just ask me that? The list would be too long! There are SO many.
The Deli: Do you have a favorite memory of a past Meow?
Sondra: Apocalypse Meow III will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my first. And the friends we’ve lost along the way were still with us.
The Deli: What are you most looking forward to about this year’s Meow?
Sondra: So many things. I’m looking forward to utilizing the amazing space Knuckleheads provides for an extra stage, and the auction items. I’m looking forward to the extra push that our campaign with Boulevard Brewing Co. will give us (more on the KC Pils campaign here). I’m looking forward to TWO bands that I’ve never seen before performing this year. Chris Meck, along with some of his friends, is building a guitar from scratch to raffle off. I’m REALLY excited about that.
Freeman has lined up an all-star cast for this year’s Meow, with thirteen bands/artists over the weekend. It starts tomorrow, November 1 at The Midwestern Musical Co. and Saturday at Knuckleheads. Doors open at 6 pm both nights. Friday’s show is free and all ages, Saturday’s show is $10, 21+. Visit http://www.apocalypsemeow.net for a full lineup and schedule. Ticket link. Facebook event page. To find out more about MMF, visit http://midwestmusicfound.org, and learn about Abby’s Fund for musicians’ health care.