That's music to our ears

While you're spoiling your taste buds this evening, indulge your eardrums, too.

From 5 to 9 p.m., a host of restaurants and other downtown Coeur d'Alene businesses will offer a wide range of live music, including jazz, classical, rock and just about everything in between. It's Music Walk, and you're invited.

We're big fans of the many aesthetic offerings provided by the Coeur d'Alene Arts and Culture Alliance, like Art from the Heart, the summer Concert Series at Riverstone, Artwalk and Music Walk. You might be surprised at how broad and deep the alliance has spread its aesthetic roots through the region. Go to artsincda.org and, after you've checked out who's participating in tonight's Music Walk, be sure to click on the local arts calendar to see what's ahead.

But tonight's the night for music. One of the reasons The Press has joined other arts supporters - the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort, Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association and Coeur d'Alene Chamber among them - is because events like these improve the already enviable quality of life here. Music Walk brings potential customers into businesses and introduces them not just to outstanding food and other products, but to the rich core of musical talent that calls this region "home." You don't have to buy anything to feel welcome, either. Downtown has long been our area's central gathering place, and programs like Music Walk assure that tradition will continue.

But they won't happen without support. On the Arts and Culture Alliance website, there's a membership application form. Individuals can join this outstanding nonprofit for just $25 a year; other memberships are also available. Being a member affords publicity and exposure for those who want it, but it also means you'll have an official say in the arts community.

The sound of music is just one way to enjoy life in North Idaho a little more.