Moonchild, a Los Angeles-based jazz trio, has postponed its West Coast tour after a U-Haul containing all of their instruments and equipment was stolen from an Oakland hotel parking lot. The theft, which occurred early Wednesday morning, represents a significant loss for the band, both financially and emotionally. They have launched a fundraiser to help cover replacement costs.
A devastating blow has struck the jazz trio Moonchild , forcing them to postpone their highly anticipated West Coast tour. The band’s entire collection of instruments and essential equipment was stolen in a brazen theft from the parking lot of a Best Western hotel in Oakland , California, early Wednesday morning.
The incident, which occurred just after 4:30 a.m., involved thieves swiftly breaking into a U-Haul truck and driving away with its precious cargo. The loss represents not only a significant financial setback – estimated to be well into the six figures – but also an emotional one for the musicians, many of whom have long-standing relationships with their instruments. Andris Mattson, the trumpet player for Moonchild, detailed the harrowing discovery.
A crew member had parked the U-Haul at the Best Western off Embarcadero earlier that morning in preparation for a scheduled performance at the UC Theater in Berkeley that evening. Mattson, utilizing Apple Airtags discreetly placed within his instrument cases, began tracking their location around 6 a.m. to ensure everything was secure. To his dismay, the Airtags indicated they were scattered across Oakland and neighboring San Leandro.
A quick call to the hotel confirmed his worst fears: the U-Haul was gone. Security footage revealed the thieves executed the theft with alarming speed and efficiency, completing the operation within a mere 60 seconds of arriving on the scene. The band members, upon arriving in town, immediately embarked on a search for the Airtags, hoping to recover their instruments.
However, their efforts revealed a meticulously planned operation. The thieves had systematically removed the Airtags from the equipment and discarded them in remote locations, such as bushes and ditches, demonstrating a clear intent to conceal their tracks. Mattson emphasized the deep personal connection the band has with their instruments, many of which have been with them for years and contribute significantly to their unique sound. The loss is therefore profoundly felt, extending beyond mere monetary value.
Despite the setback, Mattson was quick to express his continued affection for Oakland and its music scene, stating that the incident would not diminish their positive experiences or their appreciation for their fans in the city. The band has made the difficult decision to postpone, rather than cancel, their West Coast tour, with hopes of rescheduling performances, including the Berkeley show at the UC Theater, for sometime in July.
Recognizing the substantial financial burden of replacing the stolen equipment, Moonchild has launched an online fundraising campaign to help cover costs not fully reimbursed by their insurance. The stolen gear encompassed everything necessary for their performances, representing a complete loss of their touring infrastructure. The band’s resilience and determination to continue sharing their music, despite this significant challenge, is a testament to their passion and dedication.
They are appealing to their fans and the wider music community for support as they navigate this difficult period. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by touring musicians and the importance of security measures. While the recovery of the instruments seems increasingly unlikely given the thieves’ apparent professionalism, Mattson remains cautiously optimistic, citing the rarity and unique characteristics of some of their equipment.
However, he reiterated that this hope does not alter his positive feelings towards Oakland and its vibrant musical community. The band is focused on rebuilding and returning to the stage as soon as possible, eager to reconnect with their fans and continue their musical journey
Moonchild Jazz Theft Oakland Tour Instruments Fundraiser
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