Angels of the Muse

by Diane Miller
Music Editor

In a town the size of Fargo – where it is not quite big but it is definitely not small – the opportunities to be heard are good, and the chances to be appreciated are even better. Jack Schauer, a singer-songwriter/hometown philanthropist, has been doing service for our community since the early 2000s. With his organization – Angels of the Muse – his idea of spreading goodness is sharing music to those who are underprivileged.  “Giving has its own rewards. It makes our lives better,” says Schauer. By gathering local musicians who have a passion for performing alongside a desire to help others, the Angels of the Muse has touched many who are under-served throughout the community. The “angels” seek out those such as at-risk teenagers, homeless families and individuals, hospitalized youth, youth in juvenile facilities and the elderly in nursing homes. It is a way to serve those who have little access to one of life’s most precious gifts – music.

This non-profit organization was officially branded in 2004 and has kept going strong to this day. The group usually has anywhere from 7-10 performers who write original material. Even for locations that cannot afford to pay the performers, music is still provided. With the help of the North Dakota Counsel for the Arts and Arts Partnership grants, Angels of the Muse has been able give back to their musicians for their time and care for others. The biggest goal for the Angels of the Muse is to serve as inspiration to those who need it the most. Not only does playing music inspire the listeners, it also inspires the players. Furthermore, these musicians get an opportunity like no other to show off their creativity and talent. For a guy like Jack Schauer, a talented and passionate musician, having this opportunity to share his music allows him to connect with people. For all the years he has been writing and recording original material, he has discovered the most meaningful way he can share his gifts. Schauer tells HPR, “I have found the more you give, the more you get back.”
Angels of the Muse also sponsors singer/songwriter events at venues that anyone in the community can access. This coming Saturday, Jan. 14, The Spirit Room will be hosting their singer/songwriter showcase that occurs around 2 to 3 times a year. On Saturday there will be seven performers including Judy Rae, Sonja Holmgren, John Peterson, Paul Myrold, Jack Schauer, Scot Kelsh and Vic Pellerano. It will be a great opportunity to view and support some great local talent. The Spirit Room has great sound and a warm, inviting setting to hear music. There will be no cover charge but they will take donations.

For more information on what the Angels of the Muse are all about and how you can possibly get involved, you can access their webpage at http://angelsofthemuse.org/index.html.
IF YOU GO
What: Angels of the Muse’s Singer/Songwriter Showcase
When: Sat., Jan. 14th, 7 p.m.
Where: The Spirit Room, Fargo
INFO: No charge; donations accepted