Artists and musicians receive a new source of charity in New York


Many indie musicians and artists have spent the last two years walking on eggshells, risking their own money to plan tours and shows that may be cancelled.

But under New York State new budget agreementMusicians and artists who were negatively affected by the coronavirus protocols, announced on Thursday and awaiting final approval, will be able to apply for funding. $200 million Seed Financing Program.

State Senator Brad Hoylman, one of the fund’s leading advocates, said artists and artists who spend money on a performance or appearance that has been canceled for Covid-related reasons may be eligible for retroactive grants from the program. He sees this as the state’s additional investment of $800 million. COVID-19 Pandemic Small Business Rescue Grant Programestablished last year and freelance and independent art professionals cannot apply .

“These are the original concert workers and what we’ve seen in recent months is that after the second wave of Covid subsided, they are free to take concerts around the country and around the world,” said Mr Hoylman, representing some of them. Midtown and Lower Manhattan. “Many were away from home, ready to work when a band member fell ill or became ill themselves.”

Mr Hoylman added that many of these artists were stuck in other cities and countries during the Delta and Omicron waves due to the rise of Covid, “can’t afford to pay and go home because their concerts and performances were cancelled.”

Marc Ribot, 67, a Brooklyn-based touring guitarist, said he and his fellow musicians make most of their money on tour.

“I traveled with my group ceramic dog It’s late November and early December in Europe, and I’d say it’s like swimming two or three meters ahead of a shark,” said Mr Ribot. “We played in Berlin and two nights later Berlin closed and it was like that in more than one city. We lost two concerts and I think one or two went live.”

He said these cancellations could cost thousands of dollars per tour in non-refundable plane and train tickets and accommodations.

“What seemed like an 18-month vacation on the outside was, on the inside, 18 months of gigs where I always had to practice and prepare,” he said. “Then you learn three weeks or two weeks in advance: ‘Actually, that’s not possible.’ No one wants to cancel until they are sure.”

But under the budget agreement, someone like Mr. Ribot will be able to apply for a grant to make up for some of that money.

Musicians and artists “got concerts after restrictions were lifted, but the increase killed their immediate hopes for the business,” he said, adding that he believes New York owes them to help them.

Artists are the lifeblood of our city’s cultural identity.



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