Our Blissful Scene Spoiled
Two recent events have really created a disturbance on our music scene. The first involves individuals willing to ruin an acoustic performance with their talking and yelling, and the other involves the cancellation of a big show because an individual got by security with a firearm.
This certainly sorrows most of us on the festival scene who love music and the environment surrounding it. On the first front, it is probably wishful thinking to imagine that those who prefer to talk over musical performances will suddenly recognize that performers are on stage plying their craft and that others are there to hear what they are doing, but perhaps we could all do a better job of asking — kindly — that others respect the music. (I know — good luck with that.)
Here is the link to the story of the Neil Young solo acoustic show July 3rd in Detroit spoiled by inebriated brats. Credit author Doug Coombe of the Detroit MetroTimes for this insightful review, which contains Young’s written response.
The other story is the cancellation of The Avett Brothers show in Oregon. Here is the band’s Facebook post:
14 hrs ·
This evening, during the admission process at our show at Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn in Troutdale, Oregon, an individual passing through the metal detector was found to be carrying a gun. When confronted by the security guard and informed of the no-firearm policy of the venue, the individual stated that he was an out-of-state police officer and showed a badge. The security guard then asked the individual to wait for the manager so his entry could be confirmed. The individual disregarded her instructions and ventured immediately into the size-able audience. After an exhaustive search of the venue by the security staff of both the band and the venue, the individual was not located.
Due to the obvious threat posed by someone in the audience with a firearm, regardless of his (unconfirmed) claim of being a member of law enforcement, we were obligated, for the safety of everyone present, to cancel the performance.
It was unfortunate that such action had to be taken, but we have no regret in being in a position to make a decision which helps to keep our fans safe.
We look forward to making this performance up at the earliest possible juncture. Once the details are sorted for this, we will get the word out immediately.
Thank you for your understanding in this matter, and much love to you all for the continued support, love, and consideration…
Sincerely,
The Avett Brothers
In this case, the situation is out of our hands, as it was also beyond security’s ability to apprehend the person with the weapon.
The best we can do — every day — is to be mindful and to be kind.