BRIDGING THE (JAZZ) GAP
Though the years, I’ve had the good fortune of being involved with several charitable causes, including the Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis Foundation, Asbestos Victims of America, Mural Arts Program, Shriner’s Lulu Temple, Philadelphia Orchestra, Drexel University, Combs College of Music ,and Breast Health Foundation among them. All were and are good and very worthy causes and I was happy to help.
Then I discovered Jazz Bridge. Rather, they found me. I had known singers Suzanne Cloud and Wendy Simon-Sinkler for years and had heard they were heading up an organization called Jazz Bridge, but that’s about all I knew until several months ago.
The past few years have been challenging for everyone–myself included–especially jazz musicians. Jazz Bridge, I learned, was a non-profit organization dedicated to helping jazz performers in need. I’m told that some folks came to Jazz Bridge for help.
Jazz Bridge came to me, and without going into the particulars, you probably wouldn’t be reading this if it were not for Suzanne, Wendy and the organization. Among other things, they saw to it–quickly and without fuss–that I had the tools of my trade in hand.
Given that I’ve been involved in jazz and the entertainment industry since childhood, and given the challenge of the past several years, I can unequivocally state that what Jazz Bridge does is important, significant, essential, and in many cases live-changing. And life-saving.
For those who may know me only as that “wise guy drummer,” let the record show that I am humbled and honored to be associated with an organization such as this and with the truly wonderful people behind it.
Now, Jazz Bridge seeks your involvement by way of their first “Kickstarter” campaign, which is an effort to raise $6,000 in order to pay venue rentals.One of the missions of Jazz Bridge is to provide performance opportunities for local musicians, and this year they’re doing it with five series that will feature what may come close to 200 players.
To contribute, to help, to donate, to buy tickets to one or more of this season’s many great shows, or to sponsor, go to this link. And do it now.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1704332705/jazz-in-the-neighborhood.
Again, he goal is $6,000, which, in the grand scheme of things, ain’t much. Especially for an organization that’s dedicated to harmonizing art and life.
Tags: charity, Jazz Bridge, jazz concerts, jazz musicians, jazz series, Suzanne Cloud, Wendy Simon-Sinkler
