Annapolis Musicians Fund for Musicians, Inc. (AMFM), a nonprofit organization that supports professional Annapolis-area musicians and music programs for youth, will be streaming its 22nd annual “AMFM Annapolis Christmas Show” in two free online programs, premiering on Monday December 14th and Tuesday December 15th. The two programs, which include pre-recorded performances by area musicians, will be streamed on AMFM’s YouTube channel and can be found on their website, www.am-fm.org.
“The Annapolis community has been so supportive of AMFM this year, that we wanted to give back. It’s how we say ‘thank you,’ by doing what we do best – playing, singing and entertaining. There was no way we—AMFM and the participating artists—could allow the pandemic, like the Grinch, to take the holiday spirit away from us,” says Matt McConville, founder and president of AMFM.
A number of recordings were filmed under strict COVID-19 protocols at the Rams Head On Stage, which, according to McConville, “was essential in capturing the spirit and atmosphere of the past 21 Christmas shows that were performed there.” Says P.J. Thomas, AMFM’s vice president, “Rams Head recognized the importance of the project and provided the use of its facilities at no charge. We are extremely grateful for their support now and over the years.”
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, AMFM has paid 76 musicians over $115,000 for approximately 1,200 lost gigs due to venues closing or cancelling live music.
AMFM was created to provide emergency financial relief to professional Annapolis musicians who cannot work due to sickness, injury, or any other circumstance leaving them unable to perform. It also fosters the next generation of musicians in the Annapolis area through its scholarship and award programs. AMFM raises funds through donations and music events that showcase local professional talent. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.am-fm.org.
