Central Florida musician raises money for others who have no gigs

ORLANDO, Fla. — A musician in Central Florida who has no gigs for the foreseeable future is trying to raise thousands of dollars for other musicians who are also out of work.

“I figured this will be the perfect opportunity for me to give back, versus making a big deal about myself,” said singer and guitarist Theo Moon.

Moon has been playing music full-time in the Central Florida area for about three years, frequenting places such as Crooked Can Brewing, Tin Roof and Dead Lizard Brewing.

Moon said the first week of March was the last time he played shows.  The COVID-19 pandemic canceled the rest of his March gigs, and April’s not looking good either.

“Who knows, this could go into June or July,” Moon said.  “The biggest thing is the hospitality industry is very linked to musicians.  We play at the restaurants. We play at the hotels. With those shutdown, a lot of musicians including myself have no place to make money.”

Moon said he's wanted to do something for other musicians for several years, and he's decided to act now.  Moon created the "Covid-19 Artists Relief Fund" on Facebook.  He set a goal of raising $10,000 by the end of his birthday, which is Monday, April 6.

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Any musicians or bands in Central Florida who wish to possibly receive some of the donated money should email their story to Theo Moon at theomoonmusic@gmail.com.

Moon said he wants to send out $300 to $500 checks to the artists who need the money.

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