John Mayer, Dave Matthews to Play Virginia Tech

Singers Dave Matthews (left) and John Mayer Photo by: Mike Segar / Landov; Peter Kramer / Getty

John Mayer and the Dave Matthews Band are set to play a special concert at Virginia Tech on Sept. 6 to help the university and its students begin the new school year on a positive note following April's tragedy there.

"We have a profound respect for the incredible resolve and unwavering sense of hope the university community has shown, and are honored to have the opportunity to share this evening with Virginia Tech," Carter Beauford, drummer for Dave Matthews Band, said in a statement.

Country music artist Phil Vassar and rapper Nas are also on the bill. Free tickets will be made available to all current students, faculty and staff.

The Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg was the scene of horror and chaos on April 16, as student Seung-Hui Cho went on a rampage, killing 32 people and himself in the deadliest shooting in modern U.S. history.

All four musical acts have waived their fees for the event, which is expected to be funded through corporate sponsorships and sales of commemorative items.

Charles Steger, president of Virginia Tech, said he is "extremely grateful for the compassion and generosity of these artists who wished to create a very special event where our students, faculty and staff can come together to celebrate the spirit and resiliency of our university community as we begin a new academic year."

Adeel Khan, president of the university's Student Government Association, added: "The concert will provide a great outlet for all of the Virginia Tech community to come together once again."

The concert will be held at the university's Lane Stadium. Tickets are not being made available to the general public at this time.