Concert for a Cause on March 8 at Collins Center for the Arts
The University of Maine School of Performing Arts presents its annual Concert for a Cause at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 at the Collins Center for the Arts.
This year, the concert brings together the University of Maine Concert Band, directed by Philip Edelman, with the Leonard Middle School Symphonic Band, directed by Shianne Priest, and the Bangor High School Band, directed by Matthew Tipton, to raise funds for Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center’s Champion the Cure Challenge to support local cancer research and treatment.
The Concert for a Cause began five years ago when Edelman decided that the Concert Band was capable and ready to add another performance to its schedule. Working with Team RUSH (Remember – Uplift – Support – Honor) for Champion the Cure, led by Priest at Leonard Middle School and Gert Nesin, principal at Leonard Middle School, was a natural fit.
“Our students care deeply about the community, and everyone knows someone affected by cancer,” says Edelman, who is an assistant professor of music education in the School of Performing Arts.
”The Concert for a Cause is a wonderful opportunity to use music as a way to give back,” says Priest. “Cancer research saves lives and music heals. Our young musicians are passionate about using their talent to make a difference.”
Each year, Concert for a Cause features the stories of local survivors throughout the concert. The event will also feature raffles. Admission is free, with organizers asking for a suggested donation of $12. Generous support from the Alton ‘38 and Adelaide Hamm Campus Activity Fund means that 100% of proceeds go to Champion the Cure.
For more information, contact Brian Jansen, 207.581.1955; brian.jansen@maine.edu.