Peninsula musicians ‘Band Together’ to help faltering small businesses

Gig Harbor musicians are joining in a series of virtual concerts to raise money for small businesses struggling to survive the pandemic.

It’s called Band Together — get it?

And — psst!— while it’s a virtual event, you can actually show up, provided you wear a mask and keep your distance.

The two-hour performances will begin at 6 p.m. every Friday from July 10 through October 2 at the pavilion in the Uptown shopping center. They’ll be broadcast live on Facebook and Twitch.

The series is being underwritten by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation as part of an effort to provide relief to small businesses and familys impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Musicians already booked include classical guitarist Kristen Marlow, the band Northwest Chill, the vocal group Flock of Beagles, the bands Budapest West and RoyaLux.

The safest way to watch the shows, said foundation spokesman Ariel Gustanski is to stay at home and stream the video.

“But of course, we can’t tell you not to come,” she added. There will be chalked circles around the pavilion showing the proper 6-foot distance, and people who come will be urged to wear masks.

Donations will go toward a relief fund for small businesses suffering in the pandemic, and they’ll be distributed through a “people’s choice” process.

“Businesses who want to apply are being asked to make a 30-second video about their business and their losses,” said Gustanski. “Then we will have the community vote on the videos, and the top 24 businesses will get the funding.”

All business on the Gig Harbor and Key Peninsulas are eligible to apply, she said.

More information is available on the Band Together web site: https://www.ghkpbandtogether.org/ which also contains links to ways to donate.