The great musician Prince once said, “Music is healing. Music holds things together.” For students here at Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, that is a true testament. Recently, Tologs have begun utilizing the special powers of music to aid those affected by the Eaton fire with the project the Altadena Relief Show.
Founded by Mercy Bruchey ‘26, the Altadena Relief Show features local highschool bands performing original songs and covers in backyard concerts, raising money for Eaton fire victims through entrance fees, concessions, and donations.
“The Altadena Relief Show is a project I started after my family was displaced [and many families displaced as well] by the Eaton fire in Altadena. Music makes me happy, and I think live music is such a powerful tool for coming together in a community.” said Bruchey.
The development of this project was challenging, but with a little help along the way, Bruchey found it all worthwhile.
“It was a little bit difficult at first, because I didn’t really know where to start. But as soon as I started talking to more people about it, the more I realized that everybody would be interested in going and there were so many people who were willing to help. I think everything came together pretty quickly as soon as I found a friend who was willing to host the first show and bands willing to play,” Bruchey said.
For Bruchey, the Altadena Relief Show is a win for all. Not only is it helping the community, but also the local music scene.
“With Altadena Relief Shows it’s an opportunity to give young musicians, high school students, a place to play their music for an audience. It’s also an opportunity for the audience to engage in an aspect of community and take their minds off of things, and also being an opportunity to raise money for a wonderful cause.” said Bruchey.
The first Altadena Relief show was held on January 25 and hosted in the backyard of Olivia McCarthy ‘26’s home. It featured performances from local bands Easy As Hell, The Brood, and Persona Non Grata, who blew everyone away.
“We had three bands playing and all three of their sets lasted about 30 minutes. All of their sets were incredible, they played so well.” said Bruchey.
“I thought the bands were great and it was really nice of them to come out and play and support the cause,” said Olivia McCarthy ‘26.
This show was a major success. 70 people attended and the event raised almost $1,000. All proceeds went to Direct Relief, a non profit organization dedicated to help those in need.
“The first show was incredible. I have a sound [engineer] who donated equipment and [ran] sound all night to balance the levels. Even though we [were] in a backyard with high schoolers, it sounded professional. It’s a really great opportunity for these high school musicians to play in a semi-professional environment,” said Bruchey.
The effects of the Eaton fire are an ongoing issue, and that is why more Altadena Relief Shows are in the works.
“There will be more shows, even when the Eaton fire stops being a persistent issue in need of donations. We will continue these shows for charities of any kind, for relevant issues that are facing our community. Anything we can help with, we want to.” said Bruchey.
If you missed the first show, make sure to look out for future events hosted by Altadena Relief Shows.
“We are setting up [more shows] so stay tuned, buy a ticket, and come support,” said Bruchey.
