Despite the fact that Fort Wayne’s population exceeds 250,000 people, it still has many of the characteristics of a small town and remains a very close knit community.

Fort Wayne’s music scene is no different. Artists feed off of each other’s creativity, challenging one another to get better and raise the bar on a nightly basis. This creates a sense of camaraderie and compassion for each other that is seldom seen.

One way thing that helps the scene thrive is its commitment to giving back when there is someone in need. For example, on Jan. 19 at Welch’s Ale House, Fort Wayne heavyweights Metavari, The Legendary Trainhoppers, Heaven’s Gateway Drugs, and Best Sleep perform to help raise money for the Ty Brinneman family.

The Brinneman family has accumulated some large medical bills as Ty fights the good fight with an aggressive form of cancer that has taken away, at least temporarily, his ability to work.

Before these bands take the stage, a silent auction and art sale with art and gifts available for purchase will take place to help with the cause. The concert is $12, but they will be accepting additional donations. One hundred percent of the donated proceeds go directly to the Brinneman family. — Chris Hupe