MARQUETTE — Over the last nine years, professional musicians with Marquette Rockestra have raised thousands of dollars for local causes, including Music for All Kids, the United Way, the Marquette High School Music program and an arts scholarship for MAPS students.

This year’s event will celebrate memorable songs from 1976 featuring artists like Elton John, Abba, the Eagles, Wings and many more.

“”The Marquette Rockestra is so excited to be back for another show, but especially one that will be as fun as this one,” M.R. President Dan Truckey said. “The Songs of 1976 will definitely fill the room with music that will move you, whether you remember 1976 or not. As always, the musicians have put in so much time to make these songs come alive and dynamic.”

Organizers of this all-volunteer event are also proud to announce that Marquette Rockestra has created a 501c3 nonprofit organization for the first time, which will ultimately allow the group to put more money toward the beneficiary of the concert.

That’s especially important this year. Marquette Rockestra has selected Community Action Alger Marquette’s Emergency Food Program, which provides monetary assistance to eight food pantries in Marquette and Alger Counties.

CAAM Executive Director Michelle LaJoie said the organization serves thousands of individuals and families who are experiencing food insecurity in the region by providing critical nutrition support for seniors, low income households, and vulnerable populations.

Lajoie said CAAM is grateful for the partnership with Marquette Rockestra, because it shines a light on the need for food assistance in Marquette and Alger Counties.

“We remain committed to ensuring that no one in our service area goes without access to nutritious food,” Lajoie said. “Partnerships are essential to the work we do because they allow us to expand our reach, increase resources, and better meet the needs of the community. Collaborating with organizations like Marquette Rockestra brings awareness to food insecurity while engaging new audiences in meaningful ways. These partnerships help bridge gaps between services and community engagement, creating opportunities for fundraising, education, and volunteerism. Ultimately, working together strengthens our collective impact and ensures we can provide more comprehensive support to the individuals and families we serve.”

Truckey said the organization is excited to be working with CAAM, but will also devote a portion of this year’s concert proceeds to its Marquette Rockestra Arts Scholarship, which is awarded to a MAPS senior who is pursuing a degree in an arts discipline.

Marquette Rockestra Sounds of ’76 will take the Forest Roberts Theatre stage at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 16.

Advance tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for Northern Michigan University Students and youth aged 18 and under. Tickets purchased the night of the event are $22 for adults and $12 for NMU students and youth aged 18 and under. Go to tickets.nmu.edu to purchase advance tickets.