Concerts that Keep On Giving

Over the years, we have been very fortunate to have hosted Play It Forward galas with absolutely mind-blowing artists including Mavis Staples; Joan Osborne; Emmylou Harris; Herb Alpert and Lani Hall; and Graham Nash. Adding to that roster, just a few months ago we welcomed generous arts, civic, and music patrons to an evening of music by GRAMMY® award-winning singer-songwriter Jason Mraz. A highlight of the evening was when Mraz closed a set with “Have it All,” a song to inspire life’s limitless possibilities of hope, togetherness, affection, friendship, and more. This benefit concert, held at the Belly Up Tavern, raised over $150,000 and will help support efforts to advance music-making opportunities year-round. The evening was made possible by generous contributions from the Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation, Aaron Chang Ocean Art Galleries, Alesmith Brewing Company, Burger Construction, Deering Banjos, Henry Diltz, Exclusive Networks, Hilton San Diego Bayfront,

Morrison Hotel Gallery, San Diego Firefighters Association, Taylor Guitars, ZUZA Print, and over 500 selfless individual donors.

Just a few weeks later, we were back at the Belly Up Tavern to host Concert for a Cause, featuring Pine Mountain Logs (aka Venice). With their pitch-perfect harmonies, brilliant musicianship, and remarkable vocal stylings, the group performed with ferocious energy. It was SO much FUN! The evening was sponsored and made possible by a Museum supporter and netted over $16,000 which will support the Museum's educational music programming.

Back in the Museum’s performance space, we brought back a crowd favorite, the inimitable Albert Lee, for a benefit concert to support future live music programming, and in March, Sonny Landreth and Cindy Cashdollar will join us to also raise funds to keep live music thriving at the Museum…truly playing in forward.