Local musicians and NewSylum Brewing Company are organizing a fundraiser to help a musician who has become a fixture on the western Connecticut music scene.

“Jam For Erica” is being planned for Sunday, October 24, from 1 to 5 pm, at NewSylum Brewing Company, 36 Keating Farms Avenue within the Fairfield Hills campus.

Tickets are $22.85 in advance, $25 at the door, and cover one free beer, refreshments, and the afternoon of live music.

Erica Schwictenberg, a blues violinist and singer, has been part of the area music scene for 40 years. The former longtime Sandy Hook resident founded the band Spontaneous Combustion — a fixture at such local venues including My Place Restaurant — with her late husband Karl.

Schwichtenberg has moved away from her home town, but not by much. She now lives in Southbury.

Since the onset of the pandemic, Schwichtenberg has experienced more than her share of undeserved adversity, her friends and event organizers say. This has culminated in two serious health crises in the last few months. "Jam for Erica" will help Schwichtenberg with her medical and living expenses.

Performing at the event are some of the area's most popular bands including The Doug Wahlberg Band, The New Desperation, and members of Erica's own band Spontaneous Combustion. Additional performeres are expected to be added to the line-up.

Local celebrity musician and cartoonist Chance Browne will serve as emcee.

This will be an outdoor event. Current COVID-19 protocols will be followed.

Reservations can be made by clicking through the ad at NewtownBee.com or through Eventbrite.com (search for Jam For Erica). For those who cannot attend but would like to help with the fundraiser, donations can also be made through the Eventbrite page. Click on the Tickets button for that option.

Guests can hit the brewery that Sunday just to enjoy the music, without purchasing a ticket. Organizers are hoping, however, that most will purchase tickets or at least make a donation to support the effort.

Additional information is also available by contacting the brewery at 203-491-2038.