Jazz Concert To Benefit Katrina Evacuees
Mu Tau Omega, the SHSU music therapy
organization, and two community agencies will bring
a taste of New Orleans jazz to Huntsville with a Hurricane
Katrina benefit concert on Saturday (Oct. 15).
Initially scheduled for Sept. 24, the concert was postponed
due to Hurricane Rita.
The benefit will be held from 1-4 p.m.
at the Jane Monday Amphitheater,
located at 1212 Avenue M, behind City Hall.
“
The music therapy program at SHSU recognizes the powerful
impact of music as a means of expression, a source of encouragement,
a catalyst for change and a tool in healing,” said
Karen Miller, director of music therapy.
“
Recently, we have seen the devastating impact of Hurricane
Katrina on its survivors,” she said. “We are
aware of the many physical, emotional and spiritual needs
of those who have evacuated to our own city and the great
opportunity we have to make a difference.”
The concert will feature the SHSU jazz band, directed by
music theory professor Trent Hanna, followed by New Orleans'
own Betty Shirley, a professional jazz
vocalist who is also a Katrina evacuee, accompanied by Straight Ahead, a jazz
combo featuring SHSU's guitar instructor Gerald Blakeman.
“
Shirley's vocals have been referred to as ‘stunningly beautiful’ and
her emotionally-charged style as one that ‘mesmerizes audiences,’” Miller
said.
In addition, there will be activities for children, and several local businesses
have donated food items to be given away.
“
We are excited to present a benefit concert as a way of giving gifts to our new
neighbors - monetary gifts for food, shelter, and clothing, along with the very
special gift of music,” Miller said.
The concert is free to the public, though monetary or gift card donations are
encouraged for Katrina survivors. Katrina evacuees are also encouraged to attend.
The event is sponsored by Mu Tau Omega, the music therapy organization; Huntsville
Main Street Programs; and the Cultural Services of Huntsville.
For more information, call 936.294.1376.
—END—
SHSU Media Contact: Jennifer
Gauntt
Sept. 20, 2005
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