MOSIER — Gorge Music United, a loose collaboration of Columbia River Gorge musicians, will hold a Rowena Fire benefit performance Tuesday, July 29 at the Mt. Hood Winery Tasting Room, 2882 Van Horn Drive, Hood River, from 5-9 p.m.
Donations and funds raised will benefit those impacted by the Rowena Fire that damaged or destroyed some 58 homes and 100-plus buildings between Mosier and The Dalles. The event will honor firefighters and other first responders who aided those impacted by the 5,800-acre blaze.
“The artistic spirit of the Gorge is a force of nature,” said Don Campbell, a local Mosier musician who’s helping organize the event. “Doesn’t take but a couple of phone calls and emails after something as overwhelming as a wildfire to unite people wanting to help. The musicians in this area stepped up once to again lend a hand. My wife, daughter, and I went through last summer’s Microwave Tower Fire and I can tell you firsthand, it’s terrifying and more than a little humbling to realize how quickly life can be upended in a heartbeat. Leave it to musicians to rally and help make things a little better.”
Musical artists — solo and in small combos — will perform short sets on two stages. Several different ways to donate and contribute will be onsite, including a live auction.
“Fire season hit our region early this year,” said event organizer Jan Byrkit Bickford. “The Gorge artist community wanted some way to show support for those affected by the fire. And what better way than music. We’ve had a huge outpouring of musicians wanting to contribute what they do best — perform. It will be an amazing night of music and art with a chance to help our friends and neighbors touched by this devastating wildfire.”
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