The "On A Brighter Note" Holiday Jazz Series sends trios and quartets to area shelters, soup kitchens, nursing homes and more. 

 

The 2023 series will include Peter & Paul Community Services, Hillside Rehab & Healthcare Center, St. Andrews Brooking Park, the Salvation Army Family Shelter, the St. Vincent de Paul Meals Program and the Gateway 180 Family Shelter.

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A mighty thank you to those who made the series possible this year and who understand that music connects people in meaningful ways.

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Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Blessed, Safe & Happy New Year to all!

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A few reflections from last year's experience...

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"Playing music for a "non traditional audience" at St. Vincent's Soup Kitchen was a warm and positive experience for me.  Before the dinner the volunteers formed a circle and said a few prayers.  I joined them in spirit as I was assembling my horn, reflecting that the night was about, and for, the people who were there, not me or the other musicians.  Many of the people smiled and waved as we began our first tune.  Some came up later to request songs by famous musicians such as Parker and Miles.  It made me feel good to play their requests and realizing that we had a common bond with one another, that each person there had a story of past human and musical experiences, irrespective of their current situation. 

 

Some folks came up and talked to us after the gig and asked where they might be able to hear us again.  For those who seemed indifferent, I realized that they came for the meal, not to necessarily be entertained.  Still, I was happy to have maybe brightened their lives for a brief moment during this Christmas season through the gift of music. "                  

                       

Vince Sala

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"The experience of playing at the Salvation Army Family Center was humbling and rewarding, to say the least.  It certainly gave me a sense of perspective to see things through the eyes of people who are experiencing real hardships.  It showed me what I take for granted on a daily basis.  And to bring live music into their lives, even for a moment, showed me that we as musicians can provide something intangible to this population allowing all of us to forget about the difficulties of life.  That is a very unique gift to give."

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Brian Vacarro

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