Guitars For Vets Fundraiser
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Guitars For Vets Fundraiser
Guitars for Vets, Inc. (G4V) is a federally registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that enhances the lives of ailing and injured military veterans by providing them with guitars and music instruction. Through self-expression and the healing power of music, it is our intent to restore the feelings of joy and purpose that can be lost after suffering trauma.
History
In 2007 Patrick Nettesheim, a Milwaukee-area guitar instructor, was introduced to Viet Nam Era Marine, Dan Van Buskirk. Dan wanted to play guitar, but felt that the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) had left him with the inability to coordinate the hands and the mind. What Dan soon discovered was that the same strong heart and spirit that got him through Viet Nam was all that he needed to make music and learn guitar. The lessons that Patrick and Dan shared together were enlightening for them both. Patrick's success as a teacher was not simply about his ability to play guitar, it had much more to do with the teacher/student bond - Patience, Acceptance, Gratitude and Empathy, or being on the same P.A.G.E., as Patrick describes it. It is when these human qualities are in place that quality learning begins. "The guitar is a catalyst for positive human interaction", Patrick explains.
It was a few months into these lessons that Dan suggested the two of them bring this modality to the Veterans at the VA in Milwaukee. The idea was born, and Patrick coined the name and slogan: GUITARS FOR VETS - The healing power of music in the hands of heroes. Since 2007, Guitars for Vets has provided over 1,200 new guitars and 8,000 lessons to our Nation's Veterans. Chapters have been established in over 25 cities in 15 states across the country, with more being added as resources are available.
Vision
Our primary focus is using the healing power of music to help our veterans. Whether we agree or disagree with the decision to go to war, one thing is for certain: there are men and women who bravely fight for and honorably represent our country. As a consequence of war, many of our soldiers come home with physical and emotional injuries. They need our help.
Method
Guitars for Vets provides free private lessons and a new acoustic guitar to military veterans at VA medical and community-based Vet centers. All veterans are referred to us by the VA medical team in order to integrate the Guitars for Vets program into their treatment regimen. The private lessons are taught by volunteer instructors and are then followed by group sessions that provide a forum for the veterans to talk and play music with like-minded individuals, many of whom have had the same experiences, emotions and traumas. The music sessions provide a communal atmosphere. This has proven to be a catalyst that helps the Vets continue on their road to recovery and well being.
Upon graduation, each Vet in the program is presented a guitar, gig bag, strap, tuner, method book and a certificate of completion. The testimonials throughout the website capture what it has meant to some of the Vets participating in our program.
The Sparks Band featuring Count Bop
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The Sparks Band featuring Count Bop
The Sparks Band rocks classic hits from the golden age of Rock n Roll including 50's American roots and rock-a-billy, 60's surf, country rock, R&B, and British invasion. Rich Larson on drums, Tom McCarty on bass, and Mark Loder on guitar comprise the Sparks Band.
With a special guest appearance by the "Ferret de Monte Cristo" of Dr. Bop & the Headliners fame, the band will jack up the heat several notches at the High Noon Saloon.
Expect wild craziness, utter abandon, and no holds barred ROCK n ROLL!!!
Mystery Achievers & The Jett Set
Mystery Achievers & the Jett Set is Madison's premiere tribute band
performing some of rock and roll's finest hits. This band features a
mash up of hits by Joan Jett and the Pretenders in an explosive,
high-energy show. It's timeless rock that defines the late 70s and
early 80s. The band skillfully toggles between the sultry, hard edged
Pretenders hits (like Brass in Pocket and Middle of the Road) and the
anthem rock of Joan Jett (Cherry Bomb anyone?).
This band features veteran rockers from a some of Madison's favorite
local bands BingBong, the German Art Students, the Fauxtons, and the Sigourney Weavers.
Jason Moon
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Jason Moon
Jason Moon won the 2016 Wisconsin Area Music Industries Songwriter of the Year.
Venue Information:
High Noon Saloon
701A E. Washington Ave
Madison, WI, 53703
http://www.high-noon.com/
