The place for this benefit concert is The Fender Center in Corona, Calif., as the Steve Miller Band lends a hand to the Fender’s Kids Rock Free music education program. Founded in 1997, The Fender Center has provided free and low cost music classes to more than 14,000 cities throughout Southern California. Guess you could say the man known as “Maurice,” Space Cowboy” “Gangster of Love” and “Midnight Toker” knows a good cause when he sees one. Not only is the guitarist a supporter of the organization and its Kids Rock Free program, but he's a trustee as well.
Money raised from the show, which carries the moniker “Rock & Roll Formal” will support the “Campaign 800” program which acts as sort of a safety net to address the needs of 800 kids currently waiting to participate in the Kids Rock Free education programs.
“In my opinion, this school is the best, self-sustaining, community music program in the country that focuses on teaching music by involving parents and children in a way that inspires and rewards,” Miller said. “I have donated substantially to the program because it works. If you care about music education you should come and see for yourself what can be done with a committed community.”
The Rock & Roll Formal isn’t the first time Miller has worked with The Fender Center on behalf of kids. Along with performing several fundraisers for the Center, Miller and the organization launched a Text-To-Donate campaign earlier this year enabling people to easily donate $10 by texting ROCK to 50555. More recently, he invited a Kids Rock Free student to perform with the band on several stops during SMB’s 2010 tour.
It should come as no surprise that the “ock & Roll Formal” is already sold out. However, to learn more about the Fender Center and its Kids Rock Free program, just click here for the organization’s website.