Ed and Victoria Hammill, with their gentle and good-humored natures, have traversed the diverse landscape of the music business. Living in various locations like Austin, Nashville, and Asheville, they have donned almost every role imaginable. From composers and vocalists to producers and roadies, their life's playlist is a testament to their versatility.

Unraveling the Musical Lives of Ed and Victoria Hammill

Early Musical Ventures

During the 1960s at the Flat Rock Playhouse in North Carolina, Ed Hammill's artistic journey took a significant turn. While working as a roadie to make a living, he soon began writing music after meeting the late Robin Farquhar in the mountains south of Asheville. It was truly a music heaven for him, as he delved into the creative realm.This experience laid the foundation for his future musical endeavors and set him on a path that would continue to shape his career.

Meeting and Falling in Love

Ed Hammill, with two adult children from a previous relationship, had a vision in 1993 that "someone was coming into his life." On Valentine's Day that year, a friend persuaded him to visit the Unity of Arlington church where Victoria Hammill served as assistant music director.He initially sat in the back, planning to leave quickly. But after the music, Victoria headed straight down the aisle and tapped him on the shoulder. "We gave hello hugs," Victoria recalls with a smile. "I asked for a hug." And Ed thought, "Whoa, can we do that again?!" It was a moment that seemed to signify the beginning of a beautiful chapter in their lives, with music playing a central role.

Challenges Faced by Aging Musicians

The Hammills represent the challenges faced by Austin's aging musicians and music educators. Their contributions to the community are crucial in shaping the next generation of Austin creatives. As a greater number of younger musicians move to the city and the landscape changes, older musicians often get pushed out of the industry.Financial difficulties and limited access to healthcare are hardships they frequently encounter. As stated in their application for Season for Caring, "Financial difficulties and limited access to healthcare are hardships often faced by musicians of all ages, but impact older musicians in increasingly direct ways."This highlights the need for support and assistance for these dedicated artists.

The Local Music Scene Today

The Hammills have noticed a change in the Austin audience's listening habits lately. At gigs, it seems that only a few people are truly paying attention. Some of Victoria's band members are renowned musicians, yet they often end up paying them with little left over.This poses a challenge for the local music scene and the artists who pour their hearts into their performances. It emphasizes the importance of community support and recognition for these talented individuals.

Season for Caring and Their Wish List

The Hammills are part of the American-Statesman's Season for Caring program, which helps hundreds of families each year. Statesman readers have already started fulfilling some items on their Amazon wish list, but there are still many more.They would like guitar stands, music stands, rosin and violin strings, gift cards to Strait Music or American Music Supply for Victoria's teaching needs, and a room divider for when she teaches violin at home. By supporting them through donations or by fulfilling their wish list, we can make a difference in the lives of these talented musicians.To find out more or give an item on the wish list, contact HAAM at 512-541-4226 or myhaam.org.About Season for Caring:The Statesman will be sharing the stories of all 12 Season for Caring families throughout the holiday season. Find more stories and information at statesman.com/seasonforcaring.All donations are being matched up to $500,000 by the Sheth family through Christmas Day. You can donate online or use the coupon on Page 3B and mail it to Austin Community Foundation, c/o Statesman Season for Caring, 4315 Guadalupe St., Suite 300, Austin, TX 78751. Make checks payable to "Statesman Season for Caring."Use the form below or click here: https://statesmansfc.kimbia.com/statesmanseasonforcaring