Today’s word of the day is “connections.”

One thing that never ceases to amaze us in working with Musicians on a Mission is the way that music connects us all on a deep level. We connect emotionally to songs we love. Music from the past has the ability to connect us to a group of people or to a memory. It even has the power to connect old friends for a special reunion.

This Friday, we are so excited for an opportunity to get an up close look at just that.

MOAM is proud to partner with our friends at The Strand Theater and The Jerry Garcia Foundation for a special night of reunion through music. The mid-1970s lineup of the Saunders/Garcia Band rhythm section will play together with Grateful Dead tribute band, Rainbow Full of Sound, featuring co-founder Merl Saunders’ son, Tony, on bass and former Hot Tuna member, Bob Steeler, on drums. The event will celebrate the birthday of legendary Grateful Dead front man and Saunders/Garcia Band co-founder, Jerry Garcia, and will benefit both The Strand Theater and The Jerry Garcia Foundation.

This special night came together thanks to a happy coincidence on behalf of Jerry Garcia’s wife, Manasha, who arranged for Tony Saunders’ involvement, without him knowing about his old friend, Bob Steeler’s involvement. We’re anxiously anticipating finding out how the connecting power of music will enable these two music legends to play old notes and create new sounds.

Be sure to join us at 7pm for the pre-party, which will feature some of our extremely talented MOAM members performing acoustically. The other amazing thing about the connecting power of music? No matter what level musician you are or what stage in your career, we all speak the same language.

As the great Marty McFly once said: “Alright guys, uh, listen. This a blues riff in B. Watch me for the changes and try and keep up, okay?” Just a couple of musicians connecting with each other.

After the pre-party, the show starts at 8pm on the Main Stage. We certainly hope you’ll join us!