The grassroots live music support organization known as Freaks Action Network has announced the launch of a new initiative to help working musicians in New York City as the traditional concert industry remains on indefinite hiatus. The FAN Musicians Relief Fund, announced on Tuesday, will provide one-time grants to professional musicians based in New York City who have, for the most part, been out of work since the onset of the pandemic. The first 25 recipients of the grant will receive a one-time payment of $400 each from a collection of $10,000 raised by the non-profit organization.
To help kickstart the grant fundraising efforts, Marco Benevento bassist Karina Rykman will host a “F​reaks Night In​” virtual performance this Thursday (July 16th).
The Freaks Action Network has built a reputation throughout the New York City music scene as a platform to bring fans together to celebrate live music while raising money for charitable causes with annual holiday concerts and raffles. The organization raised more than $10,000 for cancer research during its holiday auction initiative in 2018. Earlier this year, FAN hosted the 20th edition of its annual Freaks Ball concert/fundraising event with performances from Joe Russo, Erik Deutsch, Jon Shaw, The Showdown Kids, Garcia Peoples, Karina Rykman, and more.
“FAN is all about turning the positive energy of live music into positive change in the world,” Freaks Action Network president ​Aaron Stein said of his organization’s new initiative to support local musicians currently out of work opportunities. “The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down and now it’s the live music world that needs help and that’s why we created this fund.”
Musicians who qualify as permanent residents of New York City who have lost at least 50% of their performance income since the arrival of COVID-19 should click here to apply for a one-time grant. ​Phase one applications are being accepted starting July 17th.
Click here for more info on the “Freaks Night In” online event.