Enjoy classical band music and support a local nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty during the University of Maine Concert Band’s ninth annual “Concert for a Cause” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, at the Collins Center for the Arts.
For this year’s free concert, the UMaine band is soliciting donations for Penquis, which provides resources for housing, transportation, heating, childcare, home repair, disability services and more to those in need.
“Penquis does amazing work in the community and they are under-funded,” said Philip Edelman, the director of the concert band and School of Performing Arts. “We are giving back by helping them reach their goals a bit easier.”
While practicing her trumpet, Kathleen Nee said fundraising for a good cause motivates her to perform her best.
“I think Penquis is a really great organization that gives back to the community. It’s great that by having us play music it raises money for a good cause,” she said.
The concert band will be accompanied by performers from Hampden Academy and the Leonard Middle School Band in Old Town. The joint performance allows middle and high school musicians to improve their craft by working alongside collegiate performers.
“The UMaine students also gain experience in mentorship with the younger students on stage with them,” Edelman said.
UMaine student and bass trombone player Connor Maurice said he’s looking forward to raising money for charity through his music.
“Music is something I really enjoy. If everybody gets to listen to great music and it’s helping the community, that’s really good,” he said.
The Concert Band welcomes students from all majors who are interested in performing a variety of concert music; no audition is required. Each spring, the group performs both on and off campus. Edelman said the cohort has been preparing advanced pieces for the Concert for a Cause
“Expect very profound music and a whole lot of laughter,” Edelman said.
Story by Rowan MacDonald, news intern
Contact: Marcus Wolf, 207.581.3721; marcus.wolf@maine.edu
