Sound Advice

Typically during this time of the year, Sound Advice would focus on New Year’s Eve events. Since we’re unsure of the ever-changing mandates regarding Iowa’s COVID-19 precautions, NYE will mostly be low-key, virtual and filled with at-home events. But, we can still hope for at least a few rockin’ out, dance-the-night-away events, right? Stay safe.

To ensure future live entertainment, why not re-direct the dollars you would have spent on New Year’s Eve toward helping ensure the future of a big-time local music event?

The Greater Des Moines Music Coalition, which puts on the 80/35 music festival, also offers music education programs for young, aspiring musicians. To keep the momentum going, they’ve started a crowd-funding effort and a year-end fundraising campaign. To learn more or donate, visit www.desmoinesmc.com/donate.

Remember that local musician or band you listened to — and loved — who performed pre-pandemic? Why not look them up online, buy or download one of their albums, or Venmo them a virtual tip?

The National Independent Venue Association continues efforts to help pass legislation to preserve live music venues through the Save Our Stages campaign. Iowa music venues with NIVA include: 80/35 Music Festival, Gas Lamp, Greater Des Moines Music Coalition, Horizon Events Center, Hoyt Sherman Place, Lefty’s Live Music, Noce, Wooly’s and xBK. Learn more at www.saveourstages.com. ♦