WINNIPEG – The big hearts and immense talents of the Winnipeg music community were on full display Sunday at an all day fundraiser for Siloam Mission.

Fifteen top acts volunteered for The 2nd Annual Christmas Musical Mission, organized by Joshua Gray of the Holly Davidson Band and smoothly hosted by the Jets jersey adorned musician (and all around good guy) Karol Thorsteinsson.

The all-day effort to raise money and collect needed winter clothing and personal items saw vocalists like Shandra Levreault rock the gathering at the Marion Hotel.

About three dozen generous folks were in attendance from the beginning, augmented throughout the day and evening by more music fans eager to see bands like Ash and The Arsonists perform.

The 50-50 draw, silent auction, and selfies with “Captain Jack Sparrow” raised cash to help Siloam Mission bring a brighter Christmas to the less fortunate in our community. The lineup was capped off by one of Canada’s best tribute acts, The Incredibly Hip, who put on a pitch-perfect set.

This was a tremendous, upbeat and joyful day brought many of Winnipeg’s most recognized musicians together with their fans in the spirit of giving, and Gray promises that next year’s fundraiser will be even better, as a new Christmastime concert tradition has been born.

[Marty Gold covers politics, public affairs and community events as Winnipeg’s leading independent reporter. For more of his unique news stories and commentaries, and to support his style of journalism – check out www.TGCTS.com]