‘A community and network to count on’: Seth Bernard was surrounded by musical friends at last month’s Earthworks Harvest party. (Photo/Anna Zink)
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West Michigan Music Scene
As guitarist, Hawkseyville Music Festival founder and long-time friend Jack Robinson says, Seth Bernard’s “love, bravery and intention are unparalleled.”
“He taught us all how to be kind, be the light, be the right rebel, and be the change we wanted to see in the world,” Robinson said of the Northern Michigan singer, musician, songwriter and Earthwork Music Said the collective leader.
So as Bernard faces recovery and recovery from Lyme disease and debilitating back problems, more than a dozen of the musician’s friends gathered together Friday at Aruwin in Traverse City The concert venue hosted a special charity show.
“(Bernard) was forced to take the next few months off and focus on rest and recovery. Our goal is to do what we can as a collective to help alleviate the financial burden of lost income and additional medical expenses,” Robinson explain.
“The project was led by Tony Ross, Sam Cooper and a number of other Earthworks members. “They did a fantastic job securing the venue, artists performing and all the logistics of the production. “
Integrating love into the community: Bernard (Photo/Anna Zink)
Friday’s benefit will feature a who’s who of Michigan musicians, including Robinson, Cooper, Jon Timm, Frank Youngman, Michael Beauchamp, Micah Middaugh, Laurel Premo, Misty Lynn, Mike Savina, Saxqua Chris Bathgate and Brian Koenigsnecht.
Robinson said the group of “friends” will perform some of Bernard’s music, as well as cover tunes and songs that the performers hope will inspire Bernard to “keep pursuing.”
“Life is hard for all of us sometimes, but knowing we have a community and network to rely on can bring such comfort during these moments in life. We are grateful to Seth. His leadership, artistry, and gentleness His heart inspires us all in indescribable ways.”
Earlier this year, Bernard began battling severe back problems and was later hospitalized multiple times for gastritis, anemia, severe pain and insomnia. The Kalkaska County resident was eventually diagnosed with Lyme disease, a serious bacterial infection caused by tick bites.
Health concerns forced Bernard to cancel an ambitious album release tour this fall to promote his latest studio record, “Unrest and Rest.” (Read more about Bernard’s health issues and his new album at Local Spins.)
“I have to be patient with the process and control my tendency to push,” he said in an August interview. “I’m slowing down, leaning into trusting the process, and leaning into the love and support of the community.”
On Friday, a section of the community banded together to raise funds for his recovery. “Come out and watch Seth blush,” a promotional post on social media declared. “Lots of hugs guaranteed.”
The 7 p.m. show, taking place at The Alluvion on the second floor of 414 East 8th Street in Traverse City, is a “pay what you can” event with proceeds going to Bernard’s GoFundMe campaign. Fans can also donate online at gofund.me/0d8d4685. As of Monday, about $17,000 had been raised toward the $30,000 goal.
A look back at local spin coverage from last month’s earthmoving harvest party hosted by Bernard.
All about therapy: Bernard on stage. (Photo/Anna Zink)
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