Music nonprofit sets date for first annual grant gala

Black Fret, an Austin nonprofit that seeks to empower area musicians through grants and public support, announced Aug. 2 it will hold its first gala, The Black Ball, on Nov. 8 at The Paramount Theatre.

During the event Black Fret will award 10 grants worth $10,000 each to Austin musicians nominated by the nonprofit's members. Nominees this year are: Amy Cook, Danny Malone, Dawn and Hawkes, East Cameron Folkcore, Elias Haslanger and Church on Monday, Elizabeth McQueen, Emily Bell, Erin Ivey, Gina Chavez, Graham Wilkinson, Jitterbug Vipers, Jonny Gray, Lincoln Durham, Little Radar, Mother Falcon, Quiet Company, The Rocketboys, The Whiskey Sisters, Wild Child, and Zeale.

Each nominee by Nov. 8 will have played a private Black Fret show for members, who pay $1,500 per year to join the organization. That money is invested back into shows and the grant program.

"The promise of Black Fret lies in the chemistry resulting from bringing together the finest musicians, the most knowledgable industry experts and the most passionate fans Austin has to offer," Black Fret Co-Founder Matt Ott said in a written statement.

Each nominee is also mentored by an advisory board member to serve as music mentors. Visitwww.blackfret.org for more information.