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Wes and George are two local mastermind’s from the DC area. They run two separate companies but join together weekly for their Local’s Only Live show’s and twice annually to throw one of the biggest summer shows in the area and again to raise money and support for Children’s Hospital. I mention them not only for their commitment to local bands across the country but because I just received their promo video for the 2007 Rock 4 Kids show (http://www.myspace.com/rockforkidsconcert). This was a nice reminder to get involved with something this holiday season that helps someone in need. I see posts frequently for charity events that need musicians or a band to donate their time to play for kids or the elderly, I encourage all of you to think outside the box and join up with a charity event to use your talents to support a local charity. Rock 4 Kids is a prime example of band’s coming together to not only entertain but offer entertainment to raise money for a great cause.

Here are some ideas of ways that you can help with your music:

• Set up shop next to one of those bell ringing Santa’s and play an acoustic set for a couple hours to encourage people to drop money into the kettle. (Be sure to have the Santa stop ringing his bell while you play, unless you have a place in your song for it, I NEED MORE COWBELL!)

• Play a show and donate all the proceeds to a charity. Tell fans to bring canned food, toys or an additional donation when they come. (Be sure to pick the charity ahead of time because they may be able to help promote the show and provide additional support.)

• Find an organizer looking for musicians to play for elderly or kids and play directly for them. (This doesn’t seem as glamorous but is a great way to help.)

This should help jump-start your creative juices in looking for ways to help this holiday season.