Virtual THON – update

I’m in the process of pulling together live musicians for our virtual THON benefit. For those that aren’t familiar with Second Life or how live music works in this virtual environment let me explain.  With the use of software like SAM broadcaster, Nicecast, Simplecast, etc.. a live musician can perform in their living room, basement, kitchen, bathroom (don’t laugh, it’s been done) and broadcast that music live into Second Life via a Shoutcast or icecast stream that’s hosted on a server somewhere.  So, a person in Second Life could wander into a coffee shop, for example, and sit down to have a cup of virtual coffee while listening to an amazing acoustic guitar player and vocalist.

I actually sing in Second Life. I’ve done this, and I’ve seen how much people enjoy this. So, just like at the real THON, we’ll be having live music and live performers at the virtual THON as well. I’ve booked two of Second Life’s most popular and talented live musicians and I’m working on booking about 5 more.

I received two emails yesterday from the THON Technology overall chair today, and I just want to say how impressed and pleased I am to be working with her.  She is really on top of things and is very excited about the virtual THON/Second Life project this year.  It’s a good thing.

Starting this weekend I’ll be working on setting up the actual area where THON will be held in Second Life and finishing the booking of performers.  At that point we’ll start getting the word out and gearing up for the event.

For the kids.