Hello Buskers!
It's time again for Street Music Week and we're looking forward to busking on the street again this year for Second Harvest.
If you’d like to play during Street Music Week this year, it’s really easy! You’ll check in before noon to grab a bucket and a button at one of these three locations:
• Downtown Spokane – Main and Post, a few steps east of Starbucks.
• Garland District – 733 W. Garland, outside The Gathering House.
• Coeur d’Alene – 415 Sherman Ave, in front of Art Spirit Gallery.
BIG NEWS FOR DOWNTOWN SPOKANE BUSKERS: Second Harvest and Street Music Week have received an extremely generous donation of parking passes for buskers at the River Park Square parking garage. We will have approximately 20 passes per day. If you park in the garage, let us know when you check in and we can give you a parking pass, while supplies last. Huge thank you to River Park Square for their donation.
Remember you can also busk online! Grab your phone and make a video of your performance. Post the video on Facebook or any social media encouraging your friends to donate at 2-harvest.org/streetmusic
NEW THIS YEAR: you can also create a personalized link for you or your band. At our main donation link 2-harvest.org/streetmusic click “create an online red bucket” and set up your own donation link with a personal message for why you’re busking for Second Harvest Inland Northwest.
Can't wait to see everyone. We'll sing for their supper!
Carey
It's time again for Street Music Week and we're looking forward to busking on the street again this year for Second Harvest.
If you’d like to play during Street Music Week this year, it’s really easy! You’ll check in before noon to grab a bucket and a button at one of these three locations:
• Downtown Spokane – Main and Post, a few steps east of Starbucks.
• Garland District – 733 W. Garland, outside The Gathering House.
• Coeur d’Alene – 415 Sherman Ave, in front of Art Spirit Gallery.
BIG NEWS FOR DOWNTOWN SPOKANE BUSKERS: Second Harvest and Street Music Week have received an extremely generous donation of parking passes for buskers at the River Park Square parking garage. We will have approximately 20 passes per day. If you park in the garage, let us know when you check in and we can give you a parking pass, while supplies last. Huge thank you to River Park Square for their donation.
Remember you can also busk online! Grab your phone and make a video of your performance. Post the video on Facebook or any social media encouraging your friends to donate at 2-harvest.org/streetmusic
NEW THIS YEAR: you can also create a personalized link for you or your band. At our main donation link 2-harvest.org/streetmusic click “create an online red bucket” and set up your own donation link with a personal message for why you’re busking for Second Harvest Inland Northwest.
Can't wait to see everyone. We'll sing for their supper!
Carey
Street Music Week 2023
June 12-16
12 to 1 pm
Downtown Spokane, Garland District and Coeur d’Alene, ID
June 12-16
12 to 1 pm
Downtown Spokane, Garland District and Coeur d’Alene, ID
Greetings, Busker Nation.
It’s that time of year again. We’ve entered the Countdown Stage for the 21st annual Street Music Week.
Save the dates! Our food bank fundraiser always takes place during the second full week of June. Which translates this time to the noon hours of June 12-16 on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
Don’t be shy. Street Music Week is open to volunteer performers of all genres and levels of ability.
As our motto states: This is about generosity, not virtuosity.
Every penny raised through busking or direct donation goes to Second Harvest Inland Northwest and its mission to help feed the hungry.
Speaking of which…
Celebrating our 20-year milestone last year, Street Music Week has raised more than $300,000 in the fight against hunger. Nearly $28,000 came in last year, alone.
Spoiler Alert: This 2023 edition will represent a change for me.
Flash back to 2002. That’s when I started this as a solo act, chronicling my guitar-strumming adventures in my newspaper column with The Spokesman-Review. Much to my surprise, my five noon hours of picking and grinning brought in $503, which I donated to Second Harvest.
Then an idea took shape. How about a repeat performance the following year, but with a difference?
No solo this time. I invited the public to come join me. Street Music Week was off and running, eventually expanding to Garland and Coeur d’Alene.
Appleton, WI., even started its own version thanks to a couple of Spokane musicians with connections there. Appleton Street Music Week is now closing in on its 11th running. How cool is that?
But after a 20-year run, I’ve decided to let someone younger lead the way: Carey Eyer.
Besides being a regular participant, Carey oversees our Facebook page. He also promotes the event with wonderful videos that feature his young musician daughters, Neilia and Ivy. “Street Music Week is the best,” Eyer said. “The musicians in this community step up year after year to help our neighbors and friends. “I’m so happy to help move it forward and further the mission of Second Harvest.”
Hey, I'm not quitting. I plan to be available to Carey for advice as well as to continue my career as a sidewalk
Sinatra.
And speaking of change. We’re all still reeling from the loss of Jim Lyons, one of my closest friends and SMW co-administrator, who died unexpectedly in late November. He was 64.
Jim was one of the most caring individuals I’ve ever met. He worked hard to make Street
Music Week a success.
It’s gratifying to look back on all that we’ve accomplished in both entertaining the public and, more importantly, feeding the area’s hungry.
Onward!
Doug Clark
It’s that time of year again. We’ve entered the Countdown Stage for the 21st annual Street Music Week.
Save the dates! Our food bank fundraiser always takes place during the second full week of June. Which translates this time to the noon hours of June 12-16 on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
Don’t be shy. Street Music Week is open to volunteer performers of all genres and levels of ability.
As our motto states: This is about generosity, not virtuosity.
Every penny raised through busking or direct donation goes to Second Harvest Inland Northwest and its mission to help feed the hungry.
Speaking of which…
Celebrating our 20-year milestone last year, Street Music Week has raised more than $300,000 in the fight against hunger. Nearly $28,000 came in last year, alone.
Spoiler Alert: This 2023 edition will represent a change for me.
Flash back to 2002. That’s when I started this as a solo act, chronicling my guitar-strumming adventures in my newspaper column with The Spokesman-Review. Much to my surprise, my five noon hours of picking and grinning brought in $503, which I donated to Second Harvest.
Then an idea took shape. How about a repeat performance the following year, but with a difference?
No solo this time. I invited the public to come join me. Street Music Week was off and running, eventually expanding to Garland and Coeur d’Alene.
Appleton, WI., even started its own version thanks to a couple of Spokane musicians with connections there. Appleton Street Music Week is now closing in on its 11th running. How cool is that?
But after a 20-year run, I’ve decided to let someone younger lead the way: Carey Eyer.
Besides being a regular participant, Carey oversees our Facebook page. He also promotes the event with wonderful videos that feature his young musician daughters, Neilia and Ivy. “Street Music Week is the best,” Eyer said. “The musicians in this community step up year after year to help our neighbors and friends. “I’m so happy to help move it forward and further the mission of Second Harvest.”
Hey, I'm not quitting. I plan to be available to Carey for advice as well as to continue my career as a sidewalk
Sinatra.
And speaking of change. We’re all still reeling from the loss of Jim Lyons, one of my closest friends and SMW co-administrator, who died unexpectedly in late November. He was 64.
Jim was one of the most caring individuals I’ve ever met. He worked hard to make Street
Music Week a success.
It’s gratifying to look back on all that we’ve accomplished in both entertaining the public and, more importantly, feeding the area’s hungry.
Onward!
Doug Clark
The 21st annual Street Music Week is fast
approaching. The food bank fundraiser for
Second Harvest Inland Northwest will take
place during the noon hours of June 12-16 on
the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the
historic Garland District and Sherman Ave. in
Coeur d’Alene.
If you’ve never been involved or need a
reminder the following Busker 101 crash
course will give you everything you need to
know on how to take part.
--
(busk.er a person who performs music or
other entertainment in the street or another
public place for monetary donations.)
--
Before we go any further, let me put your
anxieties to rest. Street Music Week is open to
all, no matter what level of performance.
So please raise your right hand and repeat
after me:
This is about generosity – not virtuosity!
Now, let the learning begin:
--
LIVE EVENT
Street Music Week always takes place
Monday through Friday from noon until 1
p.m. of the second full week of June.
Volunteers can take part on one day or every
day. It’s entirely up to them. Just show up 15-
to-20 minutes before noon at one of the
following check-in locations:
Downtown Spokane – Main and Post, a
few steps east of Starbucks.
Garland District – 733 W. Garland,
outside The Gathering House.
Coeur d’Alene – 415 Sherman Ave, in
front of Art Spirit Gallery.
--
After inking your name and cell number (and
email if we don’t have it) on a sign-in sheet,
you will receive a souvenir event badge
(yours to keep) and a red plastic bucket
(yours to NOT keep) for collecting donations.
It’s now up to you to find a sidewalk location
suitable for your performance.
That’s right. There are no stages. No assigned
locations. This is busking, after all, which is all
about being self-sufficient.
--
Something to consider: Even though SMW has
been around since 2002 (when I started it as
a lone wandering minstrel) the vast majority
of passing humanity won’t have a clue as to
why you are playing/singing/dancing for
money on the sidewalk.
So, don’t be shy. Let the public know that this
is a charity event and you are “collecting for
the Food Bank!”
I try to holler that loud and often, even while
performing a song. Take it from me. Plugging
the food bank repeatedly is a sure way to
boost donations and public awareness.
Just sayin’…
--
Street Music Week is endorsed by both the
Spokane and Coeur d’Alene City Councils.
While that gives us credibility, it’s still
important to obey a few common sense rules
of courtesy, such as…
1. Don’t block doorways or impede the
flow of lunchtime foot traffic. Big no-no.
2. This is a no-outlet event. Wanna rock
out? Amps and sound systems must be
battery powered and self-contained.
Outlets? Real buskers don’t need no
stinkin’ outlets.
3. Be mindful of volume level. Please turn
down should you get any complaints
about noise from merchants or others.
Don’t get in a huff. We’re all about
getting along.
4. Let your contact person know about
any gripes that may come your way. Our
new leader, Carey Eyer, will be happy to
smooth the waters.
--
Closing Time.
Finish at 1 p.m. No encores, puh-leez! Tote
your bucket of do-re-mi back to where you
checked in.
No worries about how much you made. This
isn’t a competition. Every cent goes to 2 nd
Harvest to help feed the hungry and it has
added up to more than $300,000 since it all
began.
Make a dime. Make a zillion. You’re a part of
history, either way.
--
That about covers it, but here’s one more
important thing:
We need a fresh supply of performers every
year to keep the fun going.
Let’s face it. A lot of us are getting somewhat
long in the tooth, myself included.
That said, we’re always on the lookout for
new volunteers. So, please, forward any
emails or phone numbers of prospective
buskers who aren’t already in the SMW
database.
Or text or call me at (509) 999-0050. I’ll be
glad to address any concern or question you
may have regarding life, liberty and the
continuance of Street Music Week.
--
ONLINE EVENT
The online version of Street Music Week was
created in 2020 due to chaos and constraints
over Covid-19. It proved to be such a success
(thank you, Carey) that we’re keeping the
online venue going forever and ever, amen.
Check out our Facebook site:
( http://facebook.com/streetmusicweek ).
It’s there to post performance videos and
leave comments as well as to make donations
via a red bucket food bank link.
As long as you’re on the ol’ Interweb, don’t
forget to visit ( streetmusicweek.com ), the
official SMW website. You’ll find information
and history plus a cool photo archive that
chronicles past events.
And, of course, there’s another easy-to-
operate link for making donations to 2 nd
Harvest.
I’ll sign off for now. And thanks in advance for
your help!
Doug Clark
(SMW CEO, retired)
approaching. The food bank fundraiser for
Second Harvest Inland Northwest will take
place during the noon hours of June 12-16 on
the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the
historic Garland District and Sherman Ave. in
Coeur d’Alene.
If you’ve never been involved or need a
reminder the following Busker 101 crash
course will give you everything you need to
know on how to take part.
--
(busk.er a person who performs music or
other entertainment in the street or another
public place for monetary donations.)
--
Before we go any further, let me put your
anxieties to rest. Street Music Week is open to
all, no matter what level of performance.
So please raise your right hand and repeat
after me:
This is about generosity – not virtuosity!
Now, let the learning begin:
--
LIVE EVENT
Street Music Week always takes place
Monday through Friday from noon until 1
p.m. of the second full week of June.
Volunteers can take part on one day or every
day. It’s entirely up to them. Just show up 15-
to-20 minutes before noon at one of the
following check-in locations:
Downtown Spokane – Main and Post, a
few steps east of Starbucks.
Garland District – 733 W. Garland,
outside The Gathering House.
Coeur d’Alene – 415 Sherman Ave, in
front of Art Spirit Gallery.
--
After inking your name and cell number (and
email if we don’t have it) on a sign-in sheet,
you will receive a souvenir event badge
(yours to keep) and a red plastic bucket
(yours to NOT keep) for collecting donations.
It’s now up to you to find a sidewalk location
suitable for your performance.
That’s right. There are no stages. No assigned
locations. This is busking, after all, which is all
about being self-sufficient.
--
Something to consider: Even though SMW has
been around since 2002 (when I started it as
a lone wandering minstrel) the vast majority
of passing humanity won’t have a clue as to
why you are playing/singing/dancing for
money on the sidewalk.
So, don’t be shy. Let the public know that this
is a charity event and you are “collecting for
the Food Bank!”
I try to holler that loud and often, even while
performing a song. Take it from me. Plugging
the food bank repeatedly is a sure way to
boost donations and public awareness.
Just sayin’…
--
Street Music Week is endorsed by both the
Spokane and Coeur d’Alene City Councils.
While that gives us credibility, it’s still
important to obey a few common sense rules
of courtesy, such as…
1. Don’t block doorways or impede the
flow of lunchtime foot traffic. Big no-no.
2. This is a no-outlet event. Wanna rock
out? Amps and sound systems must be
battery powered and self-contained.
Outlets? Real buskers don’t need no
stinkin’ outlets.
3. Be mindful of volume level. Please turn
down should you get any complaints
about noise from merchants or others.
Don’t get in a huff. We’re all about
getting along.
4. Let your contact person know about
any gripes that may come your way. Our
new leader, Carey Eyer, will be happy to
smooth the waters.
--
Closing Time.
Finish at 1 p.m. No encores, puh-leez! Tote
your bucket of do-re-mi back to where you
checked in.
No worries about how much you made. This
isn’t a competition. Every cent goes to 2 nd
Harvest to help feed the hungry and it has
added up to more than $300,000 since it all
began.
Make a dime. Make a zillion. You’re a part of
history, either way.
--
That about covers it, but here’s one more
important thing:
We need a fresh supply of performers every
year to keep the fun going.
Let’s face it. A lot of us are getting somewhat
long in the tooth, myself included.
That said, we’re always on the lookout for
new volunteers. So, please, forward any
emails or phone numbers of prospective
buskers who aren’t already in the SMW
database.
Or text or call me at (509) 999-0050. I’ll be
glad to address any concern or question you
may have regarding life, liberty and the
continuance of Street Music Week.
--
ONLINE EVENT
The online version of Street Music Week was
created in 2020 due to chaos and constraints
over Covid-19. It proved to be such a success
(thank you, Carey) that we’re keeping the
online venue going forever and ever, amen.
Check out our Facebook site:
( http://facebook.com/streetmusicweek ).
It’s there to post performance videos and
leave comments as well as to make donations
via a red bucket food bank link.
As long as you’re on the ol’ Interweb, don’t
forget to visit ( streetmusicweek.com ), the
official SMW website. You’ll find information
and history plus a cool photo archive that
chronicles past events.
And, of course, there’s another easy-to-
operate link for making donations to 2 nd
Harvest.
I’ll sign off for now. And thanks in advance for
your help!
Doug Clark
(SMW CEO, retired)
Jim Lyons
This is one of the hardest messages I’ve ever had to write. But I wanted all of Busker Nation to know that Jim Lyons, my close pal and Street Music Week’s tireless co-leader, passed away this morning at Sacred Heart Medical Center.
I’m shocked and beyond devastated. Jimmy was the most caring guy I’ve ever known, full of good humor and always willing to help anyone in need.
I don’t have many details, but Jim told me a few days ago that he’d been quite ill for the last month.
Street Music Week brought Jim and me together in 2003, the first year our charity event went public. Jimmy never left, working year after year to see the event raise more than $300,000 to help feed the hungry via 2ndHarvest food bank.
My heart goes out to Jim’s family and his many, many friends. He was so loved and appreciated.
Doug Clark
I’m shocked and beyond devastated. Jimmy was the most caring guy I’ve ever known, full of good humor and always willing to help anyone in need.
I don’t have many details, but Jim told me a few days ago that he’d been quite ill for the last month.
Street Music Week brought Jim and me together in 2003, the first year our charity event went public. Jimmy never left, working year after year to see the event raise more than $300,000 to help feed the hungry via 2ndHarvest food bank.
My heart goes out to Jim’s family and his many, many friends. He was so loved and appreciated.
Doug Clark
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
The 20th annual Street Music Week (June 13-17) was a blast, and a successful blast at that.
Results may still be coming in. But as of now, we raised $27,545 for 2nd Harvest Inland Northwest food bank to continue feeding the hungry.
This year’s total equates to roughly 138,000 meals.
How cool is that?
Bravo to you buskers who shared talents on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and Coeur d’Alene’s Sherman Ave. Adding to the amazement is that we reached our total despite the cold wet weather that occurred during the first two days.
Yikes! Kudos to those brave performers who turned out on Monday and Tuesday.
Who knew Spokane had a monsoon season?
Thanks again to those good and faithful souls who take care of the SMW administrative duties.
I’m talking about…
Jimmy “de facto CEO” Lyons. He always goes above and beyond, making sure the event is sanctified by The City via mayoral decree.
Speaking of which, he arranged for a sidewalk hug and handshake from Mayor Nadine Woodward.
Jimmy, my right-hand amigo for 19 years, also adeptly handled an early morning TV interview, distributed red buckets and posters to Garland and Coeur d’Alene and took care of money transfers.
Julie Shepard-Hall once again kept the event humming so smoothly in the Garland District that she deserves the nickname Julie Garland.
Carey Eyer again worked his magic on our SMW Facebook page, which is open year-round for posting videos, posting comments and giving donations to 2nd Harvest.
Jenny Wayman again ran the show for Coeur d’Alene’s 10thannual event. Great job!
And what can I say about my longtime amigo and that Spokane treasure known as Charlie Schmidt?
He designed this year’s poster and busker badge. Then he transformed himself into a turban-domed swami known as Mr. Mystic, handing out fortune cookies to perplexed pedestrians who donated to his red bucket.
Please do this again next year.
Thanks as usual to Kathy Hedgecock, director of philanthropy for 2nd Harvest. She keeps track of our donation numbers and is always a text or a phone call away.
And a special shoutout to my friend John Huckabay who again helped boost our total with another very generous check. Thanks for believing in us!
This 20th anniversary was truly special for another important reason. We shot well past the $300,000 milestone in donations accumulated since I began this as a solo act back in 2002.
My apologies if I've left anyone out.
And so… See you on the sidewalks next year!
Doug Clark
The 20th annual Street Music Week (June 13-17) was a blast, and a successful blast at that.
Results may still be coming in. But as of now, we raised $27,545 for 2nd Harvest Inland Northwest food bank to continue feeding the hungry.
This year’s total equates to roughly 138,000 meals.
How cool is that?
Bravo to you buskers who shared talents on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and Coeur d’Alene’s Sherman Ave. Adding to the amazement is that we reached our total despite the cold wet weather that occurred during the first two days.
Yikes! Kudos to those brave performers who turned out on Monday and Tuesday.
Who knew Spokane had a monsoon season?
Thanks again to those good and faithful souls who take care of the SMW administrative duties.
I’m talking about…
Jimmy “de facto CEO” Lyons. He always goes above and beyond, making sure the event is sanctified by The City via mayoral decree.
Speaking of which, he arranged for a sidewalk hug and handshake from Mayor Nadine Woodward.
Jimmy, my right-hand amigo for 19 years, also adeptly handled an early morning TV interview, distributed red buckets and posters to Garland and Coeur d’Alene and took care of money transfers.
Julie Shepard-Hall once again kept the event humming so smoothly in the Garland District that she deserves the nickname Julie Garland.
Carey Eyer again worked his magic on our SMW Facebook page, which is open year-round for posting videos, posting comments and giving donations to 2nd Harvest.
Jenny Wayman again ran the show for Coeur d’Alene’s 10thannual event. Great job!
And what can I say about my longtime amigo and that Spokane treasure known as Charlie Schmidt?
He designed this year’s poster and busker badge. Then he transformed himself into a turban-domed swami known as Mr. Mystic, handing out fortune cookies to perplexed pedestrians who donated to his red bucket.
Please do this again next year.
Thanks as usual to Kathy Hedgecock, director of philanthropy for 2nd Harvest. She keeps track of our donation numbers and is always a text or a phone call away.
And a special shoutout to my friend John Huckabay who again helped boost our total with another very generous check. Thanks for believing in us!
This 20th anniversary was truly special for another important reason. We shot well past the $300,000 milestone in donations accumulated since I began this as a solo act back in 2002.
My apologies if I've left anyone out.
And so… See you on the sidewalks next year!
Doug Clark
20th Annual Street Music Week
June 13th through 17th - Noon to 1pm
in downtown Spokane, the historic Garland district and Coeur d’Alene, ID
June 13th through 17th - Noon to 1pm
in downtown Spokane, the historic Garland district and Coeur d’Alene, ID
Greetings, Busker Nation!
You heard right. This year’s street music event will be our 20th annual. I know. Where did the time go?
I’m counting on all of you regulars to spread the word for new recruits. Tell newcomers to contact me at [email protected] so I can add them to our street music database for details and the latest updates.
SMW 2022 can be our biggest and best bash, a real tribute to two decades’ worth of sidewalk performances to raise money for our charity of choice: the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Consider this: Street Music Week has raised more than $290,000 in those 19 years. That translates to providing some 1.4 million meals for the hungry. That’s an incredible accomplishment and all because of YOU! – the many good-hearted entertainers who make up the Red Bucket Brigade.
This year we’re sure to blow past the $300,000 donation mark and by a healthy margin. My sources at 2nd Harvest tell me that the need has never been greater.
Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to our landmark event. (And make sure to check out our Street Music Week Facebook page.)
Remember. It’s about generosity, not virtuosity.
Rock On!
Doug Clark
You heard right. This year’s street music event will be our 20th annual. I know. Where did the time go?
I’m counting on all of you regulars to spread the word for new recruits. Tell newcomers to contact me at [email protected] so I can add them to our street music database for details and the latest updates.
SMW 2022 can be our biggest and best bash, a real tribute to two decades’ worth of sidewalk performances to raise money for our charity of choice: the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Consider this: Street Music Week has raised more than $290,000 in those 19 years. That translates to providing some 1.4 million meals for the hungry. That’s an incredible accomplishment and all because of YOU! – the many good-hearted entertainers who make up the Red Bucket Brigade.
This year we’re sure to blow past the $300,000 donation mark and by a healthy margin. My sources at 2nd Harvest tell me that the need has never been greater.
Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to our landmark event. (And make sure to check out our Street Music Week Facebook page.)
Remember. It’s about generosity, not virtuosity.
Rock On!
Doug Clark
2021 SMW Results Are In!!
Results for the 19thannual Street Music Week (June 14-18) are in and, once again, I’m overwhelmed and grateful to everyone who played a part.
This year’s event raised $24,065.60 for 2ndHarvest food bank, boosting our overall total to more than $290,000.
My appreciation begins with the many amazing volunteers who turned out during the noon hours to perform on Spokane’s sidewalks in the downtown and the Garland District as well as Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
Thanks as well to those sweet souls who take care of the administrative duties to make Street Music Week a reality.
I’m talking about…
SMW Vice Commander Jimmy Lyons, who performed a near-miracle when he persuaded the downtown Spokane street grinders to give us all a construction noise-break during the noon hour.
Julie Shepard-Hall, a tireless worker who keeps the event operating silky smooth in the Garland District.
Carey Eyer, who oversees the SMW Facebook page, which is always open and available for posting videos, comments and making donations to 2ndHarvest.
Jenny Wayman, who ran the show this year in Cd’A. The hilarious interview she gave KREM TV when a news crew came calling was priceless.
And a special shout-out to Kathy Hedgcock, 2nd Harvest's director of philanthropy. She keeps track of our donation numbers and is always a text or a phone call away.
Thanks, too, to the many, many donors that ranged from a few coins tossed into a red bucket to our friend John Huckabay, who helped boost our total with yet another generous check.
Next year will be Street Music Week’s 20thanniversary. Can’t wait and hope to see you there!
Until then,
Doug Clark
This year’s event raised $24,065.60 for 2ndHarvest food bank, boosting our overall total to more than $290,000.
My appreciation begins with the many amazing volunteers who turned out during the noon hours to perform on Spokane’s sidewalks in the downtown and the Garland District as well as Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
Thanks as well to those sweet souls who take care of the administrative duties to make Street Music Week a reality.
I’m talking about…
SMW Vice Commander Jimmy Lyons, who performed a near-miracle when he persuaded the downtown Spokane street grinders to give us all a construction noise-break during the noon hour.
Julie Shepard-Hall, a tireless worker who keeps the event operating silky smooth in the Garland District.
Carey Eyer, who oversees the SMW Facebook page, which is always open and available for posting videos, comments and making donations to 2ndHarvest.
Jenny Wayman, who ran the show this year in Cd’A. The hilarious interview she gave KREM TV when a news crew came calling was priceless.
And a special shout-out to Kathy Hedgcock, 2nd Harvest's director of philanthropy. She keeps track of our donation numbers and is always a text or a phone call away.
Thanks, too, to the many, many donors that ranged from a few coins tossed into a red bucket to our friend John Huckabay, who helped boost our total with yet another generous check.
Next year will be Street Music Week’s 20thanniversary. Can’t wait and hope to see you there!
Until then,
Doug Clark
Street Music Week is Here!
Busker Nation,
Just a mini-Shout Out to remind you that the 19thannual Street Music Week begins during the noon hours of tomorrow through Friday in downtown Spokane, the Garland District and Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
I’ve attached the refresher below, just in case.
But here are two things you should know about.
1. The management of Spokane’s Liberty Building (home to Auntie’s Bookstore; 203 N. Washington) would love to have some buskers play in front of the building. They have generously offered to match up to $1,000 in food bank donations that are taken in there during the week. This is a great opportunity. Please let me know if you are interested in performing there.
2. I’m also hoping some of you will shoot some phone videos of your performances during the week. If you do, send them along to our street music Facebook page link: http://facebook.com/streetmusicweek
Okay. That's all I got. So, here’s to a great week.
Rock On!
Doug Clark (509) 999-0050
Just a mini-Shout Out to remind you that the 19thannual Street Music Week begins during the noon hours of tomorrow through Friday in downtown Spokane, the Garland District and Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
I’ve attached the refresher below, just in case.
But here are two things you should know about.
1. The management of Spokane’s Liberty Building (home to Auntie’s Bookstore; 203 N. Washington) would love to have some buskers play in front of the building. They have generously offered to match up to $1,000 in food bank donations that are taken in there during the week. This is a great opportunity. Please let me know if you are interested in performing there.
2. I’m also hoping some of you will shoot some phone videos of your performances during the week. If you do, send them along to our street music Facebook page link: http://facebook.com/streetmusicweek
Okay. That's all I got. So, here’s to a great week.
Rock On!
Doug Clark (509) 999-0050
Street Music Week is Back!
Great news, Busker Nation!
We’re headed back to the sidewalks for this year’s 19th annual Street Music Week.
The annual fundraiser for 2ndHarvest takes place during the noon hours of June 14-18 at the usual locations: Spokane’s downtown and historic Garland District, plus Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
Here’s the dealio. We’re operating on a post-pandemic honor system to please follow current health guidelines regarding social distancing and mask wearing, which is optional now for those who are fully vaccinated.
Here’s more good news.
We’re continuing the online Street Music Week that we started during the Year of the Covid. Despite all the chaos, we raised an incredible $27,000 for 2020.
The site will continue to be open to all for posting performance videos, comments and making donations to help feed the hungry.
Carey Eyer, SMW’s tech whiz, has done a super job of managing the site. Check it out at:http://facebook.com/streetmusicweek.
And don’t forget our official website, streetmusicweek.com.
Tell your friends. Tell your family. We need newcomers to continue our mission that, since it began in 2002, has raised close to $275,000 for 2ndHarvest.
The reason for that is… YOU!
Okay. That’s it for now. I’ve attached a basic refresher course on the ins and outs of what it takes to take part in this great event.
Above is the groovy poster that Charlie Schmidt graciously made for us this year. Check out that groovy drummer. It's Charlie circa 7th grade.
Click on the poster to download a full size file, and feel free to pass it around.
Wow. Street Music Week, back on the sidewalks. What a concept! I can hardly wait to see you.
Feel free to write or call me at (509)-999-0050 if you have any concerns or questions.
Rock On!
Doug Clark
We’re headed back to the sidewalks for this year’s 19th annual Street Music Week.
The annual fundraiser for 2ndHarvest takes place during the noon hours of June 14-18 at the usual locations: Spokane’s downtown and historic Garland District, plus Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
Here’s the dealio. We’re operating on a post-pandemic honor system to please follow current health guidelines regarding social distancing and mask wearing, which is optional now for those who are fully vaccinated.
Here’s more good news.
We’re continuing the online Street Music Week that we started during the Year of the Covid. Despite all the chaos, we raised an incredible $27,000 for 2020.
The site will continue to be open to all for posting performance videos, comments and making donations to help feed the hungry.
Carey Eyer, SMW’s tech whiz, has done a super job of managing the site. Check it out at:http://facebook.com/streetmusicweek.
And don’t forget our official website, streetmusicweek.com.
Tell your friends. Tell your family. We need newcomers to continue our mission that, since it began in 2002, has raised close to $275,000 for 2ndHarvest.
The reason for that is… YOU!
Okay. That’s it for now. I’ve attached a basic refresher course on the ins and outs of what it takes to take part in this great event.
Above is the groovy poster that Charlie Schmidt graciously made for us this year. Check out that groovy drummer. It's Charlie circa 7th grade.
Click on the poster to download a full size file, and feel free to pass it around.
Wow. Street Music Week, back on the sidewalks. What a concept! I can hardly wait to see you.
Feel free to write or call me at (509)-999-0050 if you have any concerns or questions.
Rock On!
Doug Clark
18th Annual Street Music Week Online
Due to COVID-19 concerns, musicians will not be taking to the streets to collect for 2nd Harvest this June, but there are still ways to support the region’s main supplier of food for those in need.
The 18th annual Street Music Week, which was scheduled for June 8-12, “has regretfully been cancelled,” said Doug Clark, who founded the event in 2002 while writing columns for Spokane’s daily newspaper, The Spokesman-Review.
“But while the sidewalks won’t be dotted with red donation buckets and filled with the sound of music this year, our fundraiser will go on with an online twist.”
Supporters of the event, he said, can still direct their food bank contributions through this website or the 2nd Harvest Street Music Week page.
“We’ve made it easier than ever to give,” said Clark.
The 18th annual Street Music Week, which was scheduled for June 8-12, “has regretfully been cancelled,” said Doug Clark, who founded the event in 2002 while writing columns for Spokane’s daily newspaper, The Spokesman-Review.
“But while the sidewalks won’t be dotted with red donation buckets and filled with the sound of music this year, our fundraiser will go on with an online twist.”
Supporters of the event, he said, can still direct their food bank contributions through this website or the 2nd Harvest Street Music Week page.
“We’ve made it easier than ever to give,” said Clark.
FUNDRAISER FEEDS THOUSANDS OF NEEDY FAMILIES
Street Music Week has grown to attract an average of 300 volunteers who sing, dance or play instruments during the weekday noon hours of the second full week of June. As years went by, the fundraiser expanded from Spokane’s downtown business core to include the historic Garland District and Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene.
“The event has so far collected nearly $240,000, with every penny going to 2nd Harvest,” added Clark.
“But this year’s need is like never before. It’s like watching dominos topple: the virus closed businesses, which put so many out of work, which put an unprecedented strain on the food bank resources.”
“The event has so far collected nearly $240,000, with every penny going to 2nd Harvest,” added Clark.
“But this year’s need is like never before. It’s like watching dominos topple: the virus closed businesses, which put so many out of work, which put an unprecedented strain on the food bank resources.”
VIRTUAL PERFORMANCES ARE ENCOURAGED
To help out, Street Music Week performers are encouraged to stream or upload their music on their social network sites while including the donation link 2-harvest.org/streetmusicweek, with #streetmusicweek in the video description.
“And make sure to share your video performances on our official Facebook site,” said Clark.
Carey Eyer, Street Music Week’s tech whiz, created an entertaining video (check it out below) starring his talented daughters, Neilia and Ivy, who explain what it takes to become a virtual Street Music Week busker.
“And make sure to share your video performances on our official Facebook site,” said Clark.
Carey Eyer, Street Music Week’s tech whiz, created an entertaining video (check it out below) starring his talented daughters, Neilia and Ivy, who explain what it takes to become a virtual Street Music Week busker.
Mark your calendars!
Save the dates!
Street Music Week 2019 is almost here!
June 10th thru 14th
This year’s Street Music Week – the 17th annual – will take place during the noon hours at the usual locations:
Downtown Spokane
Spokane Garland District
Downtown Coeur d'Alene
We at the Street Music Week Mission Control Center look forward to seeing all of you talented pickers, singers, instrumentalists, dancers, magicians, comedians…. We can’t thank you enough for graciously volunteering your time and abilities each year to help feed the area’s hungry. As always, every penny collected during this event goes to the 2nd Harvest food bank that serves the region’s satellite food distribution programs.
Street Music Week 2018 raised $29,322, elevating our 16-year total to $209,322 or 1,046,610 meals distributed.
We’re confident that this will be our biggest and best week ever. Why? Check out this year’s poster.
That’s right. Worldwide famous celebrity (and Spokane resident) Keyboard Cat will appear daily in downtown Spokane to pose for selfies and to give away “I met Keyboard Cat” buttons for a food bank donation.
Tell your friends how easy it is to be a SMW busker. All entertainment genres of every skill level are welcome. Street Music Week is about generosity, not virtuosity.
All you have to do is…
Show up a little before noon at one of these three check-in points. (You can take part one day or every day – it’s up to you.)
Downtown: On the sidewalk next to Starbucks at Main and Post.
Garland District: On the sidewalk outside the Gathering House
coffee shop at Garland and Post (kitty-corner from the Milk
Bottle).
Coeur d'Alene: On the sidewalk outside the Mix It Up home goods
store at 513 Sherman Ave.
After signing in, you'll receive a red bucket for donations and a busker badge that is yours to keep. Then it’s up to you to head out and find a sidewalk spot to perform for the noon hour.
After 1 p.m., bring back whatever donations you’ve collected in your bucket to your check-in spot.
Remember: There are no electrical outlets to plug in to. This is an acoustic event although battery amps are okay. Just keep the volume at a reasonable level.
Questions?
Email [email protected] or call 509-999-0050.
Alter Bridge Rocker Myles Kennedy visits SMW 2016!
Street Music Week 2018 - June 11th-15th Spokane, WA
2016 Street Music Week Recap Video
Street Music Sounds from hank greer on Vimeo.
Street Music 2017 Breaks Record!
Howdy Busker Nation,
Not all of you get the newspaper (hard to believe, I know) so I wanted to send out one last email to thank all of you for making our 15th annual Street Music Week a record-breaking success.
At current count we raised an incredible $30,249.77, the first time ever passing the $30k mark. Last year at this time we had barely passed $25,000.
As always, every cent goes to 2nd Harvest food bank and the fight against hunger.
This year’s figure includes online and street donations as well as contributions from sponsors and yet another incredibly generous $15,000 check from area businessman and philanthropist John Huckabay.
It also includes the vintage cool baseball memorabilia that was donated by my pal Alan Brill and auctioned off in the food bank’s annual May fundraiser, Take a Bite Out of Hunger.
This year, some 250 individual musicians and entertainers helped raise money for 2nd Harvest by performing during the noon hours all week in downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and Coeur d’Alene.
Thanks to The Team: Jim Lyons, Joe Brasch, Julie Shepard-Hall, Jenny Wayman, Nita Alexander, Mary Beth Donelan and Matt Monroe and our sponsors The Spokesman-Review, Kootenai Health, Community Health Association of Spokane, Empire Cycle, xCraft and Snacktivist Foods.
I can’t thank you all enough and hope to see you next year.
Rock On!
Not all of you get the newspaper (hard to believe, I know) so I wanted to send out one last email to thank all of you for making our 15th annual Street Music Week a record-breaking success.
At current count we raised an incredible $30,249.77, the first time ever passing the $30k mark. Last year at this time we had barely passed $25,000.
As always, every cent goes to 2nd Harvest food bank and the fight against hunger.
This year’s figure includes online and street donations as well as contributions from sponsors and yet another incredibly generous $15,000 check from area businessman and philanthropist John Huckabay.
It also includes the vintage cool baseball memorabilia that was donated by my pal Alan Brill and auctioned off in the food bank’s annual May fundraiser, Take a Bite Out of Hunger.
This year, some 250 individual musicians and entertainers helped raise money for 2nd Harvest by performing during the noon hours all week in downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and Coeur d’Alene.
Thanks to The Team: Jim Lyons, Joe Brasch, Julie Shepard-Hall, Jenny Wayman, Nita Alexander, Mary Beth Donelan and Matt Monroe and our sponsors The Spokesman-Review, Kootenai Health, Community Health Association of Spokane, Empire Cycle, xCraft and Snacktivist Foods.
I can’t thank you all enough and hope to see you next year.
Rock On!
Come To The Garland Theater Tonight!
Hello Busker Nation…
Just a reminder that you’re all welcome to come to The Garland Theater tonight for a special celebration of the 15th annual Street Music Week. (7-9 pm; admission is free.)
We’ll have some live acts including The Willows, Spokane’s special tribute to Peter, Paul & Mary.
We’ll also show the 22-minute documentary that was made about Street Music Week a few years ago and, of course, we’ll take a collection for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Hope to see you there.
Just a reminder that you’re all welcome to come to The Garland Theater tonight for a special celebration of the 15th annual Street Music Week. (7-9 pm; admission is free.)
We’ll have some live acts including The Willows, Spokane’s special tribute to Peter, Paul & Mary.
We’ll also show the 22-minute documentary that was made about Street Music Week a few years ago and, of course, we’ll take a collection for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Hope to see you there.
The 15th Annual Street Music Week Is Here!!!
Hello Busker Nation.
It’s here – Almost!
The 15th annual Street Music Week runs during the noon hours of Mon – Fri, beginning tomorrow. (June 12-16)
So there’s still plenty of time for you to take part. We’d love to have you help celebrate the landmark 15th year by making this the biggest event ever.
Most of you know the drill by now, but here’s the skinny just in case:
Check in a little before noon at one of the three check-in points. You can take part one day or every day – it’s up to you.
Downtown: I'm always next to Starbucks on Main and Post.
Garland District: Outside the Gathering House coffee shop on Garland.
Coeur d'Alene: Outside the Art Spirit Gallery on Sherman.
After signing in, you'll receive a busker badge that is yours to keep and a red bucket for donations. Then go out and find a sidewalk spot to perform for an hour.
After 1 p.m., bring whatever donations you’ve collected in your red bucket back to the check-in spot.
Every cent goes to 2nd Harvest food bank to help feed the area's hungry. We’re hoping this year to pass the $175,000 mark in total donations.
All entertainment genres are welcome. Singers, dancers, musical instruments, magicians, comedians…
All skill levels are welcome, too. As always, Street Music Week is about generosity, not virtuosity.
Remember that there are no electrical outlets to plug in to. This is an acoustic event although battery amps are totally okay. Just keep the volume at a reasonable level.
*ALSO – Thursday night (7-9 pm) we've rented the Garland Theater for a celebration of the 15th annual Street Music Week.
Admission is free. Tell your friends and family. Everyone is welcome. We will have a few live acts, plus we'll show the 22-minute documentary "Sing for Their Suppers," that was filmed a few years ago about Street Music Week.
I can’t tell you how appreciative I am for all of your talents and your willingness to share them for the worthy cause of helping feed the area’s hungry.
So see you this week for our 15th annual event.
Rock On!
It’s here – Almost!
The 15th annual Street Music Week runs during the noon hours of Mon – Fri, beginning tomorrow. (June 12-16)
So there’s still plenty of time for you to take part. We’d love to have you help celebrate the landmark 15th year by making this the biggest event ever.
Most of you know the drill by now, but here’s the skinny just in case:
Check in a little before noon at one of the three check-in points. You can take part one day or every day – it’s up to you.
Downtown: I'm always next to Starbucks on Main and Post.
Garland District: Outside the Gathering House coffee shop on Garland.
Coeur d'Alene: Outside the Art Spirit Gallery on Sherman.
After signing in, you'll receive a busker badge that is yours to keep and a red bucket for donations. Then go out and find a sidewalk spot to perform for an hour.
After 1 p.m., bring whatever donations you’ve collected in your red bucket back to the check-in spot.
Every cent goes to 2nd Harvest food bank to help feed the area's hungry. We’re hoping this year to pass the $175,000 mark in total donations.
All entertainment genres are welcome. Singers, dancers, musical instruments, magicians, comedians…
All skill levels are welcome, too. As always, Street Music Week is about generosity, not virtuosity.
Remember that there are no electrical outlets to plug in to. This is an acoustic event although battery amps are totally okay. Just keep the volume at a reasonable level.
*ALSO – Thursday night (7-9 pm) we've rented the Garland Theater for a celebration of the 15th annual Street Music Week.
Admission is free. Tell your friends and family. Everyone is welcome. We will have a few live acts, plus we'll show the 22-minute documentary "Sing for Their Suppers," that was filmed a few years ago about Street Music Week.
I can’t tell you how appreciative I am for all of your talents and your willingness to share them for the worthy cause of helping feed the area’s hungry.
So see you this week for our 15th annual event.
Rock On!
Hello Busker Nation,
If you're reading this, it means you have participated in Street Music Weeks past or would like to give it a try.
This year’s event takes place during the noon hours of June 12-16 (Monday through Friday) on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and in Coeur d’Alene.
This is the landmark 15th year for downtown Spokane, when it began with just me wandering around with a guitar.
So tell your friends. It would be great to have a blowout year and pass the $175,000 mark in total collections for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Every cent collected goes toward feeding the area’s hungry.
I’ll keep you posted as to where to sign in, get your red collection buckets and souvenir ID badges. But so far, it looks like we will use the same sign-in locations.
I’m always stationed east of the Starbucks on Main, across from Pottery Barn. The Coeur d’Alene check-in is outside the Art Spirit Gallery on Sherman. Garland check-in is outside the Gathering House.
Be sure to send me the email addresses of anyone who hasn’t taken part. Remember that skill level doesn’t matter. This is about generosity, not virtuosity.
Besides musicians, in the past we’ve had magicians, artists, dancers and even standup comedians take part.
I’ll put the addresses in our database for future updates and specifics.
To commemorate the 15th anniversary, we’re looking into renting the Garland Theater on Thursday night (June 15) for some live performances and a reshowing of the 22-minute Street Music Week documentary that my pal and Street Music Week CEO, Jim Lyons, filmed a few years back.
Feel free to contact me for any questions, etc.
As always, I can’t thank you all enough for sharing your talents for this worthy cause.
Here’s to making the sidewalks come alive with music and entertainment!
Doug Clark
[email protected]
If you're reading this, it means you have participated in Street Music Weeks past or would like to give it a try.
This year’s event takes place during the noon hours of June 12-16 (Monday through Friday) on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, the historic Garland District and in Coeur d’Alene.
This is the landmark 15th year for downtown Spokane, when it began with just me wandering around with a guitar.
So tell your friends. It would be great to have a blowout year and pass the $175,000 mark in total collections for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Every cent collected goes toward feeding the area’s hungry.
I’ll keep you posted as to where to sign in, get your red collection buckets and souvenir ID badges. But so far, it looks like we will use the same sign-in locations.
I’m always stationed east of the Starbucks on Main, across from Pottery Barn. The Coeur d’Alene check-in is outside the Art Spirit Gallery on Sherman. Garland check-in is outside the Gathering House.
Be sure to send me the email addresses of anyone who hasn’t taken part. Remember that skill level doesn’t matter. This is about generosity, not virtuosity.
Besides musicians, in the past we’ve had magicians, artists, dancers and even standup comedians take part.
I’ll put the addresses in our database for future updates and specifics.
To commemorate the 15th anniversary, we’re looking into renting the Garland Theater on Thursday night (June 15) for some live performances and a reshowing of the 22-minute Street Music Week documentary that my pal and Street Music Week CEO, Jim Lyons, filmed a few years back.
Feel free to contact me for any questions, etc.
As always, I can’t thank you all enough for sharing your talents for this worthy cause.
Here’s to making the sidewalks come alive with music and entertainment!
Doug Clark
[email protected]
2017 Street Music Week Button Revealed!
15th Annual Street Music Week Almost Here!
Last Day Of Street Music Week 2016!
Hello Busker Nation...
It's the last day to participate in the 14th annual Street Music Week.
There are a lot cool acts coming to downtown Spokane today not to mention the Garland District and Downtown Coeur d'Alene. The weather looks great so let's go finish this off with a BANG!
--
Also, here's an opportunity to do some busking on Saturday.
This comes from Diego Sanchez ([email protected])
He writes in an email:
--
Doug,
I introduced myself Monday inquiring about wrangling up some Busk performers for Bazaar, Saturday, June 18. Its an outdoor art market that is located on N Post, from 11 am - 10 pm. We have over 75 vendors, a beer garden on city hall, and live performances scheduled. If available, we have room for 4-5 performers that’ll be spread throughout the market. Last year we had over 8,000 people in attendance. It’d provide great exposure for Second Harvest. Let me know if this is something you’d be interested in!
-Diego
--
Shoot him an email if you're interested. I sounds like a good thing.
Thanks for all your support.
It's the last day to participate in the 14th annual Street Music Week.
There are a lot cool acts coming to downtown Spokane today not to mention the Garland District and Downtown Coeur d'Alene. The weather looks great so let's go finish this off with a BANG!
--
Also, here's an opportunity to do some busking on Saturday.
This comes from Diego Sanchez ([email protected])
He writes in an email:
--
Doug,
I introduced myself Monday inquiring about wrangling up some Busk performers for Bazaar, Saturday, June 18. Its an outdoor art market that is located on N Post, from 11 am - 10 pm. We have over 75 vendors, a beer garden on city hall, and live performances scheduled. If available, we have room for 4-5 performers that’ll be spread throughout the market. Last year we had over 8,000 people in attendance. It’d provide great exposure for Second Harvest. Let me know if this is something you’d be interested in!
-Diego
--
Shoot him an email if you're interested. I sounds like a good thing.
Thanks for all your support.
Street Music Week 2016 Is Here!
Hello Busker Nation!
The 14th annual Spokane Street Music Week kicks off TODAY with simultaneous satellite events going on in the historic Garland District and downtown Coeur d’Alene.
The sidewalks will once again be bustling with buskers (archaic word for itinerate entertainers) who will perform from noon to 1 p.m. through Friday.
And like always every cent collected by these gracious volunteers will go to the 2nd Harvest food bank to help feed the region’s hungry.
So far the event has raised more than $118,000. (You can also donate at www.streetmusicweek.com.)
If you're participating, here are the check-in locations for ID badges and red donation buckets. (Come a little before noon.)
Downtown Spokane - At Main and Post, just east of the Starbucks shop.
Garland District - Outside the Gathering House coffee shop.
Coeur d'Alene - Outside the Art Spirit Gallery.
Any questions or emergencies? Call 999-0050.
Once again, I'm really looking forward to seeing all of you.
Remember: It's not about virtuosity, it's about generosity.
Rock On!
The 14th annual Spokane Street Music Week kicks off TODAY with simultaneous satellite events going on in the historic Garland District and downtown Coeur d’Alene.
The sidewalks will once again be bustling with buskers (archaic word for itinerate entertainers) who will perform from noon to 1 p.m. through Friday.
And like always every cent collected by these gracious volunteers will go to the 2nd Harvest food bank to help feed the region’s hungry.
So far the event has raised more than $118,000. (You can also donate at www.streetmusicweek.com.)
If you're participating, here are the check-in locations for ID badges and red donation buckets. (Come a little before noon.)
Downtown Spokane - At Main and Post, just east of the Starbucks shop.
Garland District - Outside the Gathering House coffee shop.
Coeur d'Alene - Outside the Art Spirit Gallery.
Any questions or emergencies? Call 999-0050.
Once again, I'm really looking forward to seeing all of you.
Remember: It's not about virtuosity, it's about generosity.
Rock On!
Hello gang!
It's getting close to that time again.
We're less than a month away from the 14th annual Spokane Street Music Week.
This year's event takes place during the noon hours of June 13-17 on the downtown sidewalks of Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and Spokane's historic Garland District.
Tell your friends. If they haven't participated before tell them to contact me at [email protected] and I will put their email addresses into our Street Music Database. I'll let you know about any updates regarding the event.
As with every year, all the money collected for our event goes to the 2nd Harvest regional food bank to help feed the hungry. So far we've raised $118,000 and I know the food bank is counting on us. If you have any questions, shoot me an email. I can't thank you enough for all you've done.
You buskers are my heroes.
See you in June!
It's getting close to that time again.
We're less than a month away from the 14th annual Spokane Street Music Week.
This year's event takes place during the noon hours of June 13-17 on the downtown sidewalks of Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and Spokane's historic Garland District.
Tell your friends. If they haven't participated before tell them to contact me at [email protected] and I will put their email addresses into our Street Music Database. I'll let you know about any updates regarding the event.
As with every year, all the money collected for our event goes to the 2nd Harvest regional food bank to help feed the hungry. So far we've raised $118,000 and I know the food bank is counting on us. If you have any questions, shoot me an email. I can't thank you enough for all you've done.
You buskers are my heroes.
See you in June!
Street Music Week 2015 Details:
The 13th annual Street Music Week takes place during the noon hours of Monday through Friday - June 8th - 12th, 2015. We're going to play some music and fight hunger. Join us!
Street Music Week Past Articles:
Street Music Week 2015 Almost Here!
Greetings Busker Nation!
We are a little over a week away from our lucky 13th annual Street Music Week. This year’s event takes place during the noon hours of June 8-12 (Monday through Friday) on the sidewalks of three – count em three – area locations:
Downtown Spokane, our original location.
The Historic Garland District in North Spokane.
Downtown Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Those coming to downtown Spokane can check in with me prior to noon outside Starbucks on Main, across from Pottery Barn.
The Gathering Place (kitty corner from the Milk Bottle) is the check-in location for Garland buskers and the Spirit Art Gallery on Sherman is Ground Zero for Coeur d’Alene.
As always, it’s a good idea to show up a little before noon for the check-in, etc.
GREAT NEWS: Since Street Music Week began we have raised more $91,000 for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Which means that we should pass that magic $100K figure in total donations, making 2015 a truly historic year.
You old-timers know the drill, of course.
But here are the basics for anyone new to the fun. Thanks again for all of your time and support in making this joyful event to help feed the area’s hungry.
Remember: Street Music Week is open to every form of performance art: music, dance, comedy… And everyone can take part regardless of ability. Street Music Week is about generosity, not virtuosity.
And now for the skinny.
--
Step One – check in prior to noon at the aforementioned locations.
Step Two – Sign in with your name, cell number (and email address if we don’t have it in our database.)
Step Three – You’ll receive a participation badge (that you can keep) and a red plastic collection bucket.
Step Four – Go find a sidewalk location to perform. Just remember not to block any doorways or impede the pedestrian traffic.
Step Five – At 1 p.m., bring the bucket (along with any collected money in it) back to your check-in spot. Remember that every cent goes to the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Step Six – You can participate one day or every day – it’s entirely up to you! That said, we’d love to have everybody every day.
--
If you need me you can always contact me at (509) 999-0050.
Until then…
Rock On!
We are a little over a week away from our lucky 13th annual Street Music Week. This year’s event takes place during the noon hours of June 8-12 (Monday through Friday) on the sidewalks of three – count em three – area locations:
Downtown Spokane, our original location.
The Historic Garland District in North Spokane.
Downtown Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Those coming to downtown Spokane can check in with me prior to noon outside Starbucks on Main, across from Pottery Barn.
The Gathering Place (kitty corner from the Milk Bottle) is the check-in location for Garland buskers and the Spirit Art Gallery on Sherman is Ground Zero for Coeur d’Alene.
As always, it’s a good idea to show up a little before noon for the check-in, etc.
GREAT NEWS: Since Street Music Week began we have raised more $91,000 for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Which means that we should pass that magic $100K figure in total donations, making 2015 a truly historic year.
You old-timers know the drill, of course.
But here are the basics for anyone new to the fun. Thanks again for all of your time and support in making this joyful event to help feed the area’s hungry.
Remember: Street Music Week is open to every form of performance art: music, dance, comedy… And everyone can take part regardless of ability. Street Music Week is about generosity, not virtuosity.
And now for the skinny.
--
Step One – check in prior to noon at the aforementioned locations.
Step Two – Sign in with your name, cell number (and email address if we don’t have it in our database.)
Step Three – You’ll receive a participation badge (that you can keep) and a red plastic collection bucket.
Step Four – Go find a sidewalk location to perform. Just remember not to block any doorways or impede the pedestrian traffic.
Step Five – At 1 p.m., bring the bucket (along with any collected money in it) back to your check-in spot. Remember that every cent goes to the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Step Six – You can participate one day or every day – it’s entirely up to you! That said, we’d love to have everybody every day.
--
If you need me you can always contact me at (509) 999-0050.
Until then…
Rock On!
Spokane has a street music sister city!
That’s right. This year, during the noon hours of June 10-14, two downtowns will battle hunger through sidewalk performance art.
They are Spokane and – Ta-Dah! – Appleton, Wis.
“We’re on a roll now,” said Appleton resident and drummer Audrey Hendrickson in a recent interview.
Appleton (Pop. 73,000) has wrapped its arms around Street Music Week.
Feeding America, the city’s version of 2nd Harvest, is actively involved. Some Appleton stores are running specials to draw shoppers to the business core during the event.
Hmm. Why hasn’t anyone around here thought of that one?
Heid Music, where Hendrickson works and teaches percussion, has taken on an overseer’s role.
Should things go well, Hendrickson said her employer wants to take the fundraiser to the other Wisconsin cities where the store has a presence.
So come June 2014, what began right here in Spokane could be repeated in Appleton, Madison, Green Bay, Oshkosh and Wisconsin Rapids.
Be still my heart.
When I began this way back when, my goal was to survive a week of strumming my beat up acoustic guitar in front of City Hall and other downtown destinations.
The plan was to breathe a bit of life into Spokane’s near-comatose sidewalk music scene.
To my utter shock and awe, however, I collected $503 in the process.
Picking a destination for the money was a no-brainer.
Despite our affluence as a nation, hunger is still a real problem in America. For every donated dollar, 2nd Harvest can buy six pounds of food.
That $503 could be turned into a serious mountain of life-sustaining grub.
An editor came up with a suggestion: Why not reprise my act the next year and open it up to any minstrels who’d like to join the fun?
Spokane Street Music Week was born.
Check out our website, www.streetmusicweek.com<http://www.streetmusicweek.com>, for photographs of past events, information about how to get involved and an interactive way to donate to 2nd Harvest.
Last year marked our 10th annual. Scores of generous musicians, dancers, artists and entertainers gave their time and talent to raise some-$12,000 for the cause.
This record amount pushed our lifetime total to somewhere in the $40,000 range.
The uncomplicated nature of the event has had a lot to do with its success. Participants simply show up, take a collection bucket and find a spot to perform for an hour.
Then they bring the bucket back along with any donations that all go to the food bank.
Because of this simplicity, I always thought Spokane Street Music Week could be duplicated in virtually any city with a downtown lunch crowd.
But Appleton?
That came about thanks to a fine folk rocker named Angela Marie.
The former Wisconsin resident loved participating in Spokane Street Music Week so much that she decided to spread the word to her close friend and former bandmate – Hendrickson.
Street Music Week “is the coolest thing,” said Marie. “You just walk around and experience it. I knew Audrey would appreciate it and want to make it happen.”
She was right.
“Musicians are some of the most gracious people,” said Hendrickson. “And we’re all excited about it.”
My street music amigos and I have a saying about the event.
It’s not about virtuosity; it’s about generosity. – By Doug Clark.
They are Spokane and – Ta-Dah! – Appleton, Wis.
“We’re on a roll now,” said Appleton resident and drummer Audrey Hendrickson in a recent interview.
Appleton (Pop. 73,000) has wrapped its arms around Street Music Week.
Feeding America, the city’s version of 2nd Harvest, is actively involved. Some Appleton stores are running specials to draw shoppers to the business core during the event.
Hmm. Why hasn’t anyone around here thought of that one?
Heid Music, where Hendrickson works and teaches percussion, has taken on an overseer’s role.
Should things go well, Hendrickson said her employer wants to take the fundraiser to the other Wisconsin cities where the store has a presence.
So come June 2014, what began right here in Spokane could be repeated in Appleton, Madison, Green Bay, Oshkosh and Wisconsin Rapids.
Be still my heart.
When I began this way back when, my goal was to survive a week of strumming my beat up acoustic guitar in front of City Hall and other downtown destinations.
The plan was to breathe a bit of life into Spokane’s near-comatose sidewalk music scene.
To my utter shock and awe, however, I collected $503 in the process.
Picking a destination for the money was a no-brainer.
Despite our affluence as a nation, hunger is still a real problem in America. For every donated dollar, 2nd Harvest can buy six pounds of food.
That $503 could be turned into a serious mountain of life-sustaining grub.
An editor came up with a suggestion: Why not reprise my act the next year and open it up to any minstrels who’d like to join the fun?
Spokane Street Music Week was born.
Check out our website, www.streetmusicweek.com<http://www.streetmusicweek.com>, for photographs of past events, information about how to get involved and an interactive way to donate to 2nd Harvest.
Last year marked our 10th annual. Scores of generous musicians, dancers, artists and entertainers gave their time and talent to raise some-$12,000 for the cause.
This record amount pushed our lifetime total to somewhere in the $40,000 range.
The uncomplicated nature of the event has had a lot to do with its success. Participants simply show up, take a collection bucket and find a spot to perform for an hour.
Then they bring the bucket back along with any donations that all go to the food bank.
Because of this simplicity, I always thought Spokane Street Music Week could be duplicated in virtually any city with a downtown lunch crowd.
But Appleton?
That came about thanks to a fine folk rocker named Angela Marie.
The former Wisconsin resident loved participating in Spokane Street Music Week so much that she decided to spread the word to her close friend and former bandmate – Hendrickson.
Street Music Week “is the coolest thing,” said Marie. “You just walk around and experience it. I knew Audrey would appreciate it and want to make it happen.”
She was right.
“Musicians are some of the most gracious people,” said Hendrickson. “And we’re all excited about it.”
My street music amigos and I have a saying about the event.
It’s not about virtuosity; it’s about generosity. – By Doug Clark.
Street Music Week Is Here!
Howdy gang!
One last reminder: the 11th annual Spokane Street Music Week is less than a day away.
The event begins noon Monday (tomorrow) and continues daily during the noon hours through Friday on the sidewalks of downtown and – for the first time ever – the Garland business district.
I want to thank all of you in advance for your willingness to share your time and talent in the fight against hunger.
Now, for you newcomers…
Jim Lyons and I will be set up near Starbucks on Main (across from Pottery Barn) to check all of you in prior to noon.
We’ll give you a red collection bucket and a cool badge that you can keep.
(Garland buskers can get their buckets and badges on the sidewalk outside Mark’s Guitar Shop.)
Then go out and find a place to play until 1 p.m., when it’s time to bring the donations back to your check-in location. Every penny collected goes to the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Oh, and don’t forget…
**A special free showing of “Sing For Their Supper,” the documentary about Spokane Street Music Week will take placeThursday, 7 p.m. at the Garland Theater.
This is the newly edited, half-hour version of the film and it’s terrific. Along with the movie, there will be live music and a collection taken for 2nd Harvest.
Well, that’s about it for now.
See ya on the sidewalks!
One last reminder: the 11th annual Spokane Street Music Week is less than a day away.
The event begins noon Monday (tomorrow) and continues daily during the noon hours through Friday on the sidewalks of downtown and – for the first time ever – the Garland business district.
I want to thank all of you in advance for your willingness to share your time and talent in the fight against hunger.
Now, for you newcomers…
Jim Lyons and I will be set up near Starbucks on Main (across from Pottery Barn) to check all of you in prior to noon.
We’ll give you a red collection bucket and a cool badge that you can keep.
(Garland buskers can get their buckets and badges on the sidewalk outside Mark’s Guitar Shop.)
Then go out and find a place to play until 1 p.m., when it’s time to bring the donations back to your check-in location. Every penny collected goes to the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Oh, and don’t forget…
**A special free showing of “Sing For Their Supper,” the documentary about Spokane Street Music Week will take placeThursday, 7 p.m. at the Garland Theater.
This is the newly edited, half-hour version of the film and it’s terrific. Along with the movie, there will be live music and a collection taken for 2nd Harvest.
Well, that’s about it for now.
See ya on the sidewalks!
Street Music Week 2012 Breaks All-Time Record
A rockin’ success.
There’s no better way to describe Spokane Street Music Week’s
recent 10th anniversary celebration, which set an all-time donations
mark of…
$11,287.87.
This wasn’t the only record set, either. For the first time more
than 200 performers took part, singing, dancing and/or playing
instruments during the noon hours in downtown Spokane.
We even had a couple of comedians roaming the sidewalks, telling
jokes for our worthy cause.
As always, every penny collected goes to the 2nd Harvest food
bank to help feed the area’s hungry.
The generosity from those who helped us reach this unprecedented
number boggles the mind. We can’t thank you enough.
Already we’re looking forward to the 11th annual SSMW, which
will take place on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane during the
noon hours of June 10-14, 2013.
Mark your calendars and we’ll see you then!
There’s no better way to describe Spokane Street Music Week’s
recent 10th anniversary celebration, which set an all-time donations
mark of…
$11,287.87.
This wasn’t the only record set, either. For the first time more
than 200 performers took part, singing, dancing and/or playing
instruments during the noon hours in downtown Spokane.
We even had a couple of comedians roaming the sidewalks, telling
jokes for our worthy cause.
As always, every penny collected goes to the 2nd Harvest food
bank to help feed the area’s hungry.
The generosity from those who helped us reach this unprecedented
number boggles the mind. We can’t thank you enough.
Already we’re looking forward to the 11th annual SSMW, which
will take place on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane during the
noon hours of June 10-14, 2013.
Mark your calendars and we’ll see you then!
Street Music Week 2012 Is Here!
Get ready to rock!
The 10th annual Spokane Street Music Week will take place during
the noon hours of June 11-15 on the downtown sidewalks of
Spokane.
Bluegrassers, rockers, jazz cats, sidewalk shufflers and vocalists
from beginners to virtuosos will be doing there thing to raise
money for 2nd Harvest food bank.
Every penny raised goes to help feed the hungry and this is
definitely the year you won’t want to miss.
We’re marking our 10th annual SSMW by attempting to raise an
unprecedented – gasp! – $10,000 for the 2nd Harvest food bank.
Could the concept for street music week be any simpler?
Performers perform while pedestrians pass by.
Hopefully, enough Samaritans will reward what they see and hear
by tossing green and silver into red collection buckets.
All that spare change adds up after awhile.
Last year’s SSMW, for example, raised a record $8,300 despite
some of the coldest, windiest and wettest weather we’d ever encountered.
And nearly $30,000 has been added to the food bank coffers since it all began with Spokesman-Review columnist Doug Clark strumming his battered six-string around the downtown. Two things happened during those first five noon hours. 1. People flipped over $400 into his open guitar case. 2. The idea for an annual charity event began to take shape with one important difference: no more solo outings. And so the second full week in June became Spokane Street Music Week, a city-sanctioned event proclaimed each year by the mayor. Performers of all disciplines and levels of ability began taking part. We were off, as they say, to the races. Within a few years, SSMW was regularly drawing some 150 “buskers,” the age-old term bestowed on street performers. This year should be better than ever thanks to some exciting additions. Spokane Mayor David Condon has promised to perform one day despite his claim of having absolutely no musical talent. Thank God for the cowbell. Jim Lyons – the SSMW second in command – and his buddy, Joe Long, will unveil “Sing for their Supper,” a street music
documentary that has been years in the filming. The world premier, along with some live music, will take place the night of the June 13 at The Bing. So on with the show and the quest for $10,000.
Doug Clark is a columnist for The Spokesman-Review.
He can be reached at (509) 459-5432 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Spokane Street Music 2011 Breaks Records!
New Street Music Video: 5 in 5
New Photos: Spokane Street Music 2011!
Street Music Week Off To Great Start!
Monday, June 13, 2011 was the start of Street Music Week, an annual event started by Spokesman-Review columnist Doug Clark, an avid musician and performer, to raise money for Second Harvest, the regional food bank in Spokane. Musicians are invited to come downtown from noon to one p.m. June 13-17 and collect tips for the food bank. Special guests this week will include Mayor Mary Verner on Wednesday, City Council president Joe Shogan on Thursday, and Peter Rivera, of Rare Earth fame, Friday. Rivera will sing “Celebrate” and “Get Ready”, his two major hits.
CLICK TO WATCH VIDEO
CLICK TO WATCH VIDEO
Spokane Street Music Week 2011 Is Here!
Say what you will about City Council President Joe Shogan.
He's a bit too opinionated, perhaps. He doesn't suffer fools well and can be a bit quick to pop his cork.
But I'll tell you what, my friends. Guy's got stones.
Want proof? Shogan has agreed to sing again at Spokane Street Music Week, which takes place on the downtown sidewalks during the noon hours of June 13-17.
The clock is ticking but there's still time to get involved.
(More on that in a moment.)
Shogan's return to my annual food bank fundraiser may not sound like the red badge of courage.
Unless, of course, you were there last year to experience the council president's rendition of that timeless Animals classic, "House of the Rising Sun."
Frankly, I've never heard that key before.
I paid Shogan a surprise visit at City Hall on Friday. After some thoughtful debate, I successfully steered him away from performing a song out of the Fabulous Wailers catalogue.
I will instead accompany him on Neil Young's iconic "Heart of Gold."
It's not that I don't appreciate the Wailers. They were, after all, the first Northwest garage band to release a "Louie, Louie" recording.
But the Wailers came from Tacoma, and no self-respecting Spokane official should pay homage to Washington's third-rate, I mean, third-largest city.
It just sends the wrong message.
Whatever he sings, however, this could be the gutsiest comeback since Elvis '68.
Mayor Mary Verner has been a crowd favorite at the event, too.
This being an election year, Verner is attempting to become Spokane's first two-term mayor since the Ice Age.
I suggest she give "I'm a Believer" a try, but not listening to me has been one of the hallmarks of the mayor's administration.
Come to think of it, I could probably say that about all the mayors I've dealt with.
Stay tuned and I'll let you know when and where the celebrities will be appearing.
Hard to believe this is our ninth annual event.
It all began with just yours truly wandering around the business core with guitar in hand.
The next year I opened it up to any dreamer who wanted to join me. Now some 150-plus performers take part.
Here's the reason why: Every penny dropped into our red collection buckets goes directly to the Second Harvest food bank to help feed the area's hungry.
I haven't checked lately, but we should be pressing the $25,000 donation mark.
Not a bad chunk of change considering every dollar donated can buy 6 pounds of food.
(Make an online contribution and find out more about it at www.streetmusicweek.com.)
Here's even more good news.
It's not too late to be a part of the fun. Just contact me via the information below.
Remember that Spokane Street Music Week has never been about your ability level or what sort of instrument you play.
Heck. You don't even have to play an instrument.
Dancers, artists and even magicians have participated.
I'm looking forward to another great event.
First, however, I will attend Monday's City Council meeting to receive another mayoral proclamation endorsing Street Music Week.
Oh, well. You know what they say about Spokane council meetings.
There's no business like Shogan business!
MEMO: Doug Clark is a columnist for The Spokesman-Review. He can be reached at (509) 459-5432 or by email at [email protected].
He's a bit too opinionated, perhaps. He doesn't suffer fools well and can be a bit quick to pop his cork.
But I'll tell you what, my friends. Guy's got stones.
Want proof? Shogan has agreed to sing again at Spokane Street Music Week, which takes place on the downtown sidewalks during the noon hours of June 13-17.
The clock is ticking but there's still time to get involved.
(More on that in a moment.)
Shogan's return to my annual food bank fundraiser may not sound like the red badge of courage.
Unless, of course, you were there last year to experience the council president's rendition of that timeless Animals classic, "House of the Rising Sun."
Frankly, I've never heard that key before.
I paid Shogan a surprise visit at City Hall on Friday. After some thoughtful debate, I successfully steered him away from performing a song out of the Fabulous Wailers catalogue.
I will instead accompany him on Neil Young's iconic "Heart of Gold."
It's not that I don't appreciate the Wailers. They were, after all, the first Northwest garage band to release a "Louie, Louie" recording.
But the Wailers came from Tacoma, and no self-respecting Spokane official should pay homage to Washington's third-rate, I mean, third-largest city.
It just sends the wrong message.
Whatever he sings, however, this could be the gutsiest comeback since Elvis '68.
Mayor Mary Verner has been a crowd favorite at the event, too.
This being an election year, Verner is attempting to become Spokane's first two-term mayor since the Ice Age.
I suggest she give "I'm a Believer" a try, but not listening to me has been one of the hallmarks of the mayor's administration.
Come to think of it, I could probably say that about all the mayors I've dealt with.
Stay tuned and I'll let you know when and where the celebrities will be appearing.
Hard to believe this is our ninth annual event.
It all began with just yours truly wandering around the business core with guitar in hand.
The next year I opened it up to any dreamer who wanted to join me. Now some 150-plus performers take part.
Here's the reason why: Every penny dropped into our red collection buckets goes directly to the Second Harvest food bank to help feed the area's hungry.
I haven't checked lately, but we should be pressing the $25,000 donation mark.
Not a bad chunk of change considering every dollar donated can buy 6 pounds of food.
(Make an online contribution and find out more about it at www.streetmusicweek.com.)
Here's even more good news.
It's not too late to be a part of the fun. Just contact me via the information below.
Remember that Spokane Street Music Week has never been about your ability level or what sort of instrument you play.
Heck. You don't even have to play an instrument.
Dancers, artists and even magicians have participated.
I'm looking forward to another great event.
First, however, I will attend Monday's City Council meeting to receive another mayoral proclamation endorsing Street Music Week.
Oh, well. You know what they say about Spokane council meetings.
There's no business like Shogan business!
MEMO: Doug Clark is a columnist for The Spokesman-Review. He can be reached at (509) 459-5432 or by email at [email protected].
Another Amazing Spokane Street Music Week!
The totals are in!
The 8th Annual Spokane Street Music Week brought in $4,171.66!
Thanks to all who donated and the musicians who played!
None of this could have happened without you!
Get Ready! Next year's Street Music Week is right around the corner!
Of course, you can donate all year long!
Click HERE and donate "On Behalf of Street Music Week" to help feed the hungry!
The 8th Annual Spokane Street Music Week brought in $4,171.66!
Thanks to all who donated and the musicians who played!
None of this could have happened without you!
Get Ready! Next year's Street Music Week is right around the corner!
Of course, you can donate all year long!
Click HERE and donate "On Behalf of Street Music Week" to help feed the hungry!
"Check It Out Music" Writes About Street Music Week!
Street Music Week's (now) favorite blog, "Check It Out Music", wrote a terrific article/review and posted some great photos!
Click HERE to check it out! (music).
Click HERE to check it out! (music).
Thursday & Friday Pictures Posted!
Just when you thought there couldn't be anymore cool Street Music Week photos, there are!
Click the picture to the left to check out all the newest photos!
You might even see yourself!
Click the picture to the left to check out all the newest photos!
You might even see yourself!
Wednesday Photos Posted!
Wednesday was rainy, but the musicians and donations still showed up!
We've also added some pictures from past years at Street Music Week!
Click the photo to the left to see all the latest pictures!
We've also added some pictures from past years at Street Music Week!
Click the photo to the left to see all the latest pictures!
Day 2 Pictures Featuring Peter Rivera of Rare Earth!
Day 2 of Street Music Week got even better with more donations, more musicians, and a special performance by Peter Rivera of Rare Earth!
Click the picture on the left to check out all the latest photos!
And make sure to come to downtown Spokane during the noon hour all week long to help support 2nd Harvest and Street Music Week!
Click the picture on the left to check out all the latest photos!
And make sure to come to downtown Spokane during the noon hour all week long to help support 2nd Harvest and Street Music Week!
Day 1 Pictures Posted!
Monday was an incredible success with 60 musicians participating in the first day of Street Music Week!
Click the picture to the left to see all the new photos from the first day of the 8th annual Spokane Street Music Week!
Come downtown all this week during the noon hour to perform, or donate to the performers to help 2nd Harvest Food Bank!
Click the picture to the left to see all the new photos from the first day of the 8th annual Spokane Street Music Week!
Come downtown all this week during the noon hour to perform, or donate to the performers to help 2nd Harvest Food Bank!
Spokane Street Music Week Starts Today!
At 12 Noon today, Street Music Week starts in the downtown corridor of Spokane, WA!
It's the ONLY official Street Music Week in the world, and is in it's 8th year!
Anyone can play, so come grab a red bucket before Noon all this week!
It's the ONLY official Street Music Week in the world, and is in it's 8th year!
Anyone can play, so come grab a red bucket before Noon all this week!
Get your act together for Street Music Week 2010!
In a positively shocking flash of municipal efficiency, the mayor’s office this week e-mailed me a draft of my eighth annual Spokane Street Music proclamation, even though …
A. I hadn’t yet asked for it.
B. The event is still three weeks away.
Talk about impressive.
I mean, you usually can’t get a pothole filled in this burg until some citizen drowns in it.
Then I looked closer and realized what was going on. The e-mail was sent from Catherine Gallaher, the mayor’s administrative secretary.
She is so on the ball. If Gallaher were running the city the budget would be in the black and parking meters would be half off on Thursdays.
Gallaher’s correspondence served as a wake-up call. Yes, it’s time again to beat the drum for performers who would like to help feed the hungry by raising money for the Second Harvest Inland Northwest food bank.
Here are the facts:
•Spokane Street Music Week will take place on the downtown sidewalks during the noon hours of June 14-18.
•Spokane Street Music Week welcomes all, from bluegrassers to swinging jazz cats to symphony sophisticates. It really doesn’t matter what you do. We’ve had accordion players, Scottish dancers, wandering street magicians and a spirited dude who played an upright piano perched on the bed of his pickup truck.
•Spokane Street Music Week isn’t about ability. You can be a beginner or a virtuoso. What matters is having a willing heart and a desire to perform for a good cause.
Last year’s event drew about 150 sidewalk buskers who raised a record $4,250 in donations. It was a substantial boost from the record $3,800 raised in 2008. As always, every nickel deposited in our red collection buckets goes straight to Second Harvest.
•Spokane Street Music Week performers can take part one day or every day. Participation is entirely up to you.
If you’re not already in our database, contact me via the information below and I’ll make sure you receive all the event information and updates.
•Spokane Street Music Week welcomes all rock stars and celebrities.
Peter Rivera, for example, wowed a sizable crowd last year on the sidewalk across from River Park Square. The former lead singer and drummer of Rare Earth sang his monster hits like “Get Ready.”
(Note to self: Twist Rivera’s arm and get him to come back.)
Speaking of return engagements, Mayor Mary Verner has agreed to perform another duet with me.
The mayor and I sang a stirring rendition of “Proud Mary” last year.
This year, considering Verner is already campaigning for a second term, perhaps an “On the Road Again” parody would be appropriate.
Let’s see …
Wants your vote again.
Mary Verner wants your vote again.
Thinks that she can run for mayor again and win.
Even though we never do that in Spokane.
Naw. The mayor’s a good sport, but I’m betting she’ll take a pass on that one.
Doug Clark is a columnist for The Spokesman-Review. He can be reached at (509) 459-5432 or by e-mail at [email protected].
A. I hadn’t yet asked for it.
B. The event is still three weeks away.
Talk about impressive.
I mean, you usually can’t get a pothole filled in this burg until some citizen drowns in it.
Then I looked closer and realized what was going on. The e-mail was sent from Catherine Gallaher, the mayor’s administrative secretary.
She is so on the ball. If Gallaher were running the city the budget would be in the black and parking meters would be half off on Thursdays.
Gallaher’s correspondence served as a wake-up call. Yes, it’s time again to beat the drum for performers who would like to help feed the hungry by raising money for the Second Harvest Inland Northwest food bank.
Here are the facts:
•Spokane Street Music Week will take place on the downtown sidewalks during the noon hours of June 14-18.
•Spokane Street Music Week welcomes all, from bluegrassers to swinging jazz cats to symphony sophisticates. It really doesn’t matter what you do. We’ve had accordion players, Scottish dancers, wandering street magicians and a spirited dude who played an upright piano perched on the bed of his pickup truck.
•Spokane Street Music Week isn’t about ability. You can be a beginner or a virtuoso. What matters is having a willing heart and a desire to perform for a good cause.
Last year’s event drew about 150 sidewalk buskers who raised a record $4,250 in donations. It was a substantial boost from the record $3,800 raised in 2008. As always, every nickel deposited in our red collection buckets goes straight to Second Harvest.
•Spokane Street Music Week performers can take part one day or every day. Participation is entirely up to you.
If you’re not already in our database, contact me via the information below and I’ll make sure you receive all the event information and updates.
•Spokane Street Music Week welcomes all rock stars and celebrities.
Peter Rivera, for example, wowed a sizable crowd last year on the sidewalk across from River Park Square. The former lead singer and drummer of Rare Earth sang his monster hits like “Get Ready.”
(Note to self: Twist Rivera’s arm and get him to come back.)
Speaking of return engagements, Mayor Mary Verner has agreed to perform another duet with me.
The mayor and I sang a stirring rendition of “Proud Mary” last year.
This year, considering Verner is already campaigning for a second term, perhaps an “On the Road Again” parody would be appropriate.
Let’s see …
Wants your vote again.
Mary Verner wants your vote again.
Thinks that she can run for mayor again and win.
Even though we never do that in Spokane.
Naw. The mayor’s a good sport, but I’m betting she’ll take a pass on that one.
Doug Clark is a columnist for The Spokesman-Review. He can be reached at (509) 459-5432 or by e-mail at [email protected].
