An Upcoming Musical and Charitable Event: Sunday evening, October 4, 2009, 7:00pm; at Church of St. Luke and the Epiphany; 13th and Pine Steet, Center City, Philadelphia. (An open reception with the musicians fill follow the concert.)
This exciting jazz event will be a Benefit Concert for Mercy Hospice and the Roof Replacement Project of the Church of St. Luke and the Epiphany on the fiftieth anniversary year of Billie Holiday's passing. Sponsored by St. Luke Church with support sponsors: The African American Museum of Phladelphia; All About Jazz, Chris' Jazz Cafe; L-2 Restaurant; The Philadelphia Jazz Heritage Project
Co-hosts: Bob Perkins (WRTI), Honorary Chairperson; Vic Schermer (All About Jazz)
Music Director: Mary Ellen Desmond
Featuring top Philadelphia jazz artists: Vocalists Mary Ellen Desmond, Miss Justine, Joanna Pascale, Reggie Pindel and Anne Sciola. Instrumentalists Larry McKenna, saxophone, Tom Lawton, piano, Mike Kennedy, guitar Lee Smith, bass, and Byron Landham, drums. Student vocal ensemble under the direction of Justin Binek, University of the Arts Faculty. Special guest: Trudy Pitts, organ and piano.
The Church (a not-for-profit 501c3 institution) would greatly appreciate any in-advance notices, public service announcements, interviews, and news stories that will encourage ticket sales and let the community know about the event. (SUGGESTION FOR IN-ADVANCE STORY: A multi-pronged news story about the historic church renovations, the work of the Mercy Hospice program for homeless women and children, Billie Holiday, and the event itself.)
DETAILED CONCERT INFORMATION:
Contact Person: Vic Schermer 215-967-9085 (NOTE: Complimentary review tickets are available for members of the press. Advance news stories are welcome.)
Tickets ($25; $15 students and seniors) on sale on line and at local venues. Purchase tickets here.
About Billie Holiday
Billie Holiday was one of the greatest of all jazz singers. Her singing expressed romantic longings reflecting her life as an African American woman. In addition to her lasting impact on music, she also played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement through her recording of the song, “Strange Fruit.” The academy award nominated film Lady Sings the Blues starring Diana Ross commemorated her often stormy life. “Sounds of Sinatra” disc jockey Sid Mark met Billie Holiday and has pointed out her profound musical influence on Sinatra himself. Holiday was born in Philadelphia, and had many performances and friends in this city.
Related Article
Billie Holiday Fifty Years Later: A Tribute and Reassessment
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For more information contact All About Jazz.
