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Walker musician holds 'backyard quarantine concert'

Posted at 10:37 PM, Mar 25, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-26 12:51:46-04

WALKER, Mich. — A musician from Walker held a 'Backyard Quarantine Concert' to spread joy to his neighborhood during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gary Sironen has been playing music since he was a kid.

"I enjoy music," said Sironen. "I enjoy playing music. I'm also a composer and a playwright. So, I write music. It's just always been an important part of my life."

Sironen saw videos of people from other countries singing together on their decks while under quarantine, which inspired him to do the same.

"I just put together a little flyer and delivered it to the houses that immediately surround here, just to let them know that I was going to do it and if it got too loud, they could text me and tell me," said Sironen.

The concert lasted for about an hour, with Sironen playing sounds from all generations. Songs included: "Footloose," "Hang on Sloopy," "Can you Feel the Love Tonight?" and "Margaritaville."

About a dozen neighbors gathered while others listened from their own decks and porches. Everyone adhered to the 6-foot rule for social distancing.

"Music is something that gives joy to everybody," said Dave Veldt, who listened to the backyard concert. "It's a common language, and neighbors who we don't actually see when there isn't a quarantine, we actually see them."

Watch Gary's concert