The Grateful Guitars Foundation (GGF) will bring its mission to the skyline this summer when renowned Grateful Dead tribute ensemble Dark Star Orchestra stages a special benefit concert on Friday, August 15, 2025 at The Rooftop at Pier 17. A limited-capacity VIP Pre-Show Reception will precede the performance, giving supporters an up-close celebration of the instruments, players, and educators who keep the music thriving.

Founded in 2019, GGF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that commissions world-class instruments for today’s most talented improvisational musicians while funding music-education programs that cultivate the next generation of players. The Pier 17 benefit underwrites both initiatives, channeling 100 percent of VIP proceeds into new custom guitars and classroom resources nationwide.

A reception with rare guitars and rarer access: VIP guests will mingle with members of Dark Star Orchestra, examine iconic instruments—including Jerry Garcia’s legendary “Alligator” Fender Stratocaster—and bid on one-of-a-kind memorabilia during a silent auction, all while enjoying curated food, beverages, and sweeping East River views. Each attendee will leave with an exclusive gift package created especially for the evening.

Concert details & ticketing: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET, with the full DSO performance to follow on the open-air Rooftop stage overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. A very limited allotment of VIP reception passes remains; fans can secure both concert tickets and the VIP add-on at axs.com (direct link: https://www.axs.com/events/942724/dark-star-orchestra-tickets).

About Dark Star Orchestra: Since 1997, Dark Star Orchestra has honored the spirit and detail of nearly 2,500 Grateful Dead concerts, often recreating historic set lists song-for-song while adding its own improvisational spark. The band’s shows have featured on-stage collaborations with Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Donna Jean Godchaux.

About Grateful Guitars Foundation: Grateful Guitars Foundation pairs professional-grade instruments with deserving players and sponsors music-education initiatives that inspire young musicians. By connecting exceptional talent to equally exceptional tools, GGF ensures that improvisational, jam-oriented music continues to flourish on stages—and in classrooms—for generations to come.