If you’ve spent any time in the St. Louis Jewish community, you’ve probably bumped into Michael Staenberg — or at least a project he’s helped bring to life. He’s a guy who gives a lot, but this September he’s giving in a way you can dance to. The Hub STL will host its second annual Battle of the Bands in The District of Chesterfield, a free four-week music throwdown where the winners take home bragging rights, a $1,000 prize and, more importantly, help raise money for three local charities.
“This month-long event combines my love for music and philanthropy,” said Staenberg, owner of The Hub and The District. “I always say Live Local and Give Local. The Battle of the Bands brings the community together while shining a light on the non-profits, sponsors and talented musicians we’re proud to support.”
Four nights, three charities, one community
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The competition kicks off Aug. 28 with an announcement at the Hub’s August Summer Concert, then runs every Wednesday night in September. Sept. 3 benefits Friends of Kids with Cancer, Sept. 10 supports CHADS Coalition for Mental Health and Sept. 17 raises funds for Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Sept. 24 Grand Finale will split proceeds evenly among all three.
Here’s the fun part: the audience decides the winners by buying $5 voting tickets. Last year’s crowd raised nearly $10,000 for local nonprofits, proving you can do a lot of good just by showing up, cheering loud and voting for your favorite band.
Local talent turns it up
Ten bands are in the mix this year, including Sticky Bangs, Punky Booster, Raised on Radio and last year’s champs, The Rockwood Boys. Expect guitars, solos, maybe even a few questionable dance moves — and some tight competition. The first three weeks whittle the list down to the top acts for the Grand Finale, where one will take the prize.
A new stage for giving
For Staenberg, this is just another way to keep giving fresh. He’s been behind everything from matching big-dollar donations to the Jewish Federation to funding community grants to building one of the world’s largest menorahs downtown. Battle of the Bands just swaps hard hats and ribbon cuttings for drum kits and guitar picks — but the goal’s the same: bring people together and make a difference.
