Hi everyone, It’s been truly inspiring to see how quickly this community has come together over the past few days. The speed, the willingness, the energy: it says something real about how deeply this matters. Music has a way of bringing people together without needing to argue or explain. On Monday, we have a chance to make that visible, to show up, play, and remind people what that sounds like. Thank you for stepping in and helping make this happen so quickly. We are just over 60 strong at this point but growing by the minute. We will keep accepting new people all the way through the start of the event tomorrow so if you know anyone the answer is yes. Feel free to forward this email to whoever you'd like. Below are all the details you’ll need. When & Where Monday, April 20 Civic Center Plaza Call Time 11:15-11:30 AM Press conference at 12:30 PM 👉 Please arrive between 11:15–11:30 AM We will begin organizing at 11:30 sharp What to Bring Your instrument Music (attached / linked below) A music stand or lyre (recommended if you have one) Clips for your music (outdoor setting) A sign if you’d like to bring one Music & How It Will Work We’ll be playing from a shared set of pep tunes (attached) There will be no formal rehearsal We’ll begin with a simple unison note/warm-up, then move into tunes together I’ll give clear visual cues, just stay with the group and follow along 👉 The goal is energy, unity, and presence, not perfection Where to Go When you arrive: Head toward the main plaza area Look for me (James). I’ll be near the front of the space organizing the group We’ll gather quickly and form up together Our Role at the Event We are there to play music. We are not speaking on behalf of a group or organization If you speak with media or others, do so as an individual Our presence is musical. That’s what makes this powerful Signs & Visuals If you’d like to bring a sign, great—simple and bold works best. Examples: ARTS MATTER SD ❤️ ART KEEP SAN DIEGO CREATIVE ART IS ESSENTIAL (Attached are printable versions if helpful) What to Wear Music-related attire encouraged White is preferred (helps the group stand out on camera) Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing What to Expect We’ll gather around 11:30 and organize quickly We’ll play continuously leading into the press conference This will be fluid, just stay with the group and follow cues Come for as long as you’re able Non-musicians are welcome to attend and support as well. Final Note This is a chance to create something visible and meaningful together. Nothing complicated, just show up, bring your instrument, and play. Looking forward to seeing you there. See you soon! James
What This Is
Unison is a network of musicians who show up when it matters.
We believe music belongs in public life—not just in concert halls, but in civic spaces, community moments, and times when people need to feel connected to something larger than themselves.
We bring music to those moments.
Not as background—but as energy, presence, and meaning.
This is not a traditional organization.
It’s a mobilized community.
A group of musicians who can come together quickly, play at a high level, and contribute something real when it counts.
Why It Exists
Public life has become fragmented, tense, and often disconnected.
Music does something different.
It:
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brings people together without requiring agreement on everything
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creates energy and momentum
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reminds people they are part of something larger
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adds dignity and meaning to shared experiences
Unison exists to put that force back into the world—intentionally.
What We Do
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Show up at civic and community events to perform live music
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Support causes that align with our core values
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Mobilize musicians quickly for meaningful moments
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Build a network of players who care about both music and the world around them
We don’t organize the events.
We don’t control the message.
We show up and play.
Our Values
Pro-Democracy. Always.
We are committed to:
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democratic norms
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the rule of law
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human rights
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peaceful civic participation
This is not partisan. It’s foundational.
Music Is Our Role
We are musicians first.
As a network, we:
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perform
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elevate events
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create connection
We do not:
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speak on behalf of the group
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act as political representatives
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turn performances into messaging platforms
Members are free to express themselves individually—but not on behalf of Unison.
Open, Flexible Participation
This is a big tent for musicians.
Some members participate often.
Some show up occasionally.
Both matter.
Community Over Bureaucracy
Unison is built to move quickly and stay focused.
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No mandatory commitments
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No rigid hierarchy
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No unnecessary barriers
Just a shared mission and a way to act on it.
How It Works
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Organizations or community leaders request musical support
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A small leadership group reviews requests for alignment and feasibility
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Approved opportunities are shared with the network
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Musicians opt in based on availability
Simple, flexible, and fast.
Artistic Standards
When we show up, it needs to work.
We maintain clear standards so every performance:
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sounds strong
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feels cohesive
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reflects well on the group
Minimum Expectations
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Balanced instrumentation across ensemble sections
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Experienced players covering core parts
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Prepared, coordinated repertoire
Repertoire
All performances use pre-approved music organized into shared “pep books,” allowing musicians to prepare quickly and perform confidently—even on short notice.
Quality Without Gatekeeping
We take quality seriously—but we are not here to exclude people.
Decisions about repertoire, instrumentation, and experience are based on musical standards only.
When something is close, we lean toward inclusion.
What It Feels Like
Unison should feel like:
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a musical guild
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a civic service community
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a group of people who show up when it matters
When we perform, people should feel:
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energy
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unity
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purpose
And musicians should feel:
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pride
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connection
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that they’re part of something real
Get Involved
Musicians
Join the network and play when you’re available.
Organizations
Request musicians for your event.
👉 Link for Organizations to request Unison at events is coming soon
FAQ
What is Unison?
Unison is a network of musicians who come together to perform at civic and community events. We exist to bring music into public life in a meaningful, visible way.
Is this a political organization?
No.
Unison is not affiliated with any political party.
We are committed to democratic values and human dignity, but our role is strictly musical.
Do you endorse candidates or causes?
As a network, we do not engage in messaging or advocacy beyond our presence as musicians.
Members may participate in events individually, but no one speaks on behalf of Unison.
Do musicians get paid?
At this stage, participation is voluntary and unpaid.
Who can join?
Any musician with ensemble experience who is willing to prepare and perform responsibly.
Do I have to commit to every event?
No.
Participation is completely flexible.
You join events when you are available.
What kind of music do you play?
We use pre-approved arrangements organized into shared pep books, designed for flexibility and quick preparation.
How are events chosen?
A small leadership group reviews requests to ensure they align with Unison’s core values and are logistically feasible.
Can I speak or represent Unison at an event?
No.
Unison’s role is to perform music.
Members do not speak on behalf of the group unless explicitly designated.
How do I get involved right now?
Sign up using the link above.
You’ll receive event opportunities, music, and instructions.
Unison
Play for something.
Show up when it matters.