Local Schools to Receive More than $30,000 for Music Education

More than $30,000 was raised during the Petaluma Music Festival, much-needed funds that will go to local public school music programs. 

“The weather was perfect, the attendance of over 3,000 was amazing, and the bands, including The Devil Makes Three, The Mother Hips, and Big Sam’s Funky Nation, were fantastic,” said Cliff Eveland, executive director of the festival that was held Aug. 6 at the Sonoma-Marin County Fairgrounds. 

“The event was a huge success, and everyone I spoke with said they had a great time and enjoyed the diversity of our music lineup," said Eveland, a music teacher at Petaluma High School and one of the creators of the festival, meant to supplement dwindling funds for public school music programs.

Despite a weak economy, the festival raised more than twice the amount from last year. Funds will be donated starting December during schools' winter concerts.

“Our community has a history of supporting music in the schools, so we know we have a strong base of music fans and education supporters who will put this event on their calendars year after year,” said Mark Mooney, the festival president. 

Next year's Petaluma Music Festival has been scheduled for August 4.