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Cleveland State music therapy student creates virtual concerts to support unemployed musicians during COVID-19 pandemic

Michelle Gaw is turning her idea to help musicians into a positive movement.

LAKEWOOD, Ohio — Music is a universal language and local artists are using their craft and the internet to inspire others during these uncertain times.

A Cleveland State University music therapy student is turning her idea to help musicians into a positive movement through live concerts on Zoom, a video conferencing platform.

Credit: Nina Ripich

“This is going to be something that hopefully uplifts people during this time and brings us together,” says Michelle Gaw who is now working with a small team to execute the virtual shows.  “We aren’t powerless right now, it feels like that but we’re really not.”

Not only is Virtual Shows CLE inspiring the audience it’s also uplifting the independent musicians who can’t work due to social distancing directives from the state.  These types of artists are independent contractors and as of now, aren’t necessarily eligible for unemployment under the new rules in response to COVID-19.

We are not totally powerless. Brain power is not canceled. Imagination is not canceled. Our collective hive mind is not canceled and it CAN NOT be. This is uncharted territory, but let's walk into it hand in hand. The time to act is now. Speak your ideas out loud.

“Over the two days we raised over $1,000 for six local musicians,” explains Gaw. 

The goal now is to work on getting outside sources for funding so Virtual Shows CLE won’t be reliant on donations.

The next concert is on Friday, March 20th at 8pm and features Austin Walkin’ Cane, Ray Flanagan and Madeline Finn.

For more information check out Facebook and Instagram or email virtualshowscle@gmail.com.  

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