Headwaters Music and Arts Plans Play It Forward Gala March 21

Headwaters Music & Arts will host its largest annual fundraiser, "Play It Forward," at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 21, on the third floor of The Loft Event Center at 116 Fourth St. NW in downtown Bemidji. Cocktail attire is encouraged for the evening, which combines live music, original visual art, a silent auction, and catered food into a single night of community fundraising.

The gala's proceeds support scholarships and accessible programming for people of all ages and abilities throughout the Bemidji area. Headwaters serves hundreds of youth and adults each year through individual music lessons, group classes, workshops, camps, outreach performances, and free community events. The Play It Forward gala is designed specifically to remove financial barriers so students from any background can access high-quality arts instruction.

Executive Director Tricia Andrews framed the event's purpose in stark terms. "This evening is a joyful affirmation of what happens when a community believes in creativity," Andrews said. "'Play It Forward' is about passing the gift of music and art from one person to another — ensuring that every child who finds their voice, every adult who rediscovers their love of music, and every scholarship we provide becomes part of a cycle of generosity that strengthens our entire community."

The program features Headwaters' own instructors performing rock, blues, jazz, and classic tunes, stepping out of the teaching studio and onto a public stage. Guests can also expect an exhibition of original artwork by the organization's teaching artists, interactive art experiences, a lively auction and raffle featuring unique local experiences and treasures, catered charcuterie and festive beverages, and stories highlighting the impact the organization's scholarships have had on students. A social hour with appetizers and a cash bar opens the evening at 5 p.m.

The organization's Givebutter fundraising campaign had raised $8,525, or 56 percent of a $15,000 goal, from 65 supporters as of the campaign's most recent snapshot. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities remain available, and organizers note that space at The Loft Event Center is limited.

Headwaters Music & Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with EIN 41-1730200. Tickets and additional information are available at headwatersmusicandarts.org or by calling (218) 444-5606.