By Will Saunders

Claire Stewart Intro:

Claire Stewart is an Alumni of the University of Oregon. She used to work at the Outdoor Program as a bike mechanic and her love of bikes has never left. This was Claire’s first time attending Bike Music Fest and she looks forward to future events.

Will Saunders: What was your favorite part about Bike Music Fest?

Claire Stewart: I attended Bike Music Fest for the first time this year and I was very impressed with the way the event was organized, the artists who came, and the crowd that enjoyed the festivities. The best part was having people stop and ask about what was going on, and then watching those people then join the crowd. It’s a great event that everyone can get involved in because it is free of charge and is placed in the heart of Eugene.

WS: What would you like to see improved at next years Bike Music Fest?

CS: The main stage is located at the base of Skinner’s Butte Park. Its expansive grass fields next to the river make it a fun and open place for people to hang out and just listen to the music. However, the event could be concentrated in a smaller area to make the event slightly more intimate and concentrated. The open field allows for activities such as Frisbee, juggling and hacky sack while the music plays, but it also removes people from the tight-knit community atmosphere created by the event.

WS: How is Bike Music Fest different than most other concerts?

CS: The people that attend Bike Music Fest seem to be very down-to-earth and free spirited. You do not see many of your average rave heads or punk rockers that get dressed up for the night. Instead you get people from off the street or joining in after their shift at work. It is a pleasant sight to see everyone so relaxed and taking time off from their busy lives. The audience isn’t exclusively standing in front of the stage dancing. Instead they spread out on the field lying on blankets, playing Frisbee or conversing with friends. It is a nice change in pace.

WS: How does Bike Music Fest promote social consciousness?

CS: The fact that the entire event is dependent on continuous bike power is an example of what we are capable of as a community. Both physically and mentally it takes a sense of awareness to create and promote an event that gets people interested in green energy and alternative transportation.