Music is an integral part of what makes Athens, Athens. Given that numerous shows and performances have been canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, The Classic Center, Terrapin Beer Co., and the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present Band Together – a weekly virtual concert series that will bring your favorite entertainers right to your doorstep. Join us every Thursday night on YouTube at Band Together Athens for some at-home entertainment. You won’t want to miss this.

The first show begins Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. with local bands Leaving Countries and Cicada Rhythm. Leaving Countries was founded by Louis Phillip Pelot and has diversely performed everything from a solo act to a 13-piece orchestra. The band explores the crossroads between loving your hometown and the pull of the road with a soulful blend of original songs and popular hits. Cicada Rhythm is made up of Georgia natives Andrea DeMarcus and Dave Kirslis. The pair modernizes folk music in a way that American Songwriter deemed “Hypnotic.”

Prior to each performance, Terrapin Beer Co. will host a weekly “Terrapin Toast,” introducing each act with a different personality each week. Terrapin President, Dustin Watts, will be the first host. Tune in each week, as you never know who may show up!

During the performances, viewers will be able to comment, like, and donate. Donations will support the Athens Area Community Foundation’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund. The performers that raise the most support will have the opportunity to perform at live events in the community such as Terrapin RecFest, 2020 AthHalf Half Marathon, 2021 AthFest Music & Arts Festival, or as an opener for an upcoming concert at The Classic Center. In addition, Terrapin will be donating $0.50 to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund every time a consumer uses #Terrapin4Athens in a post.

Are you a local artist or business interested in participating in this virtual series? The Classic Center is looking for entertainers and companies who recognize the pervasive power of music during difficult times and who want to help Athens band together as a community for this project. Interested parties are encouraged to contact BandTogether@ClassicCenter.com.

Tune in every Thursday and support your favorite artists from the comfort of your own home! Stay safe, stay home, stay Athens!

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