Local jazz musicians have banded together for a fundraiser-tribute event for Hilo bassist John Parker who is battling cancer.
Local jazz musicians have banded together for a fundraiser-tribute event for Hilo bassist John Parker who is battling cancer.
The event is Sunday, 4-7:30 p.m. at the Hilo Elks’ Lodge, 150 Kinoole St. A $10 donation per person for all attendees will be requested at the door. Please bring a potluck dish and be ready to dance. A no-host bar is provided by the Elks’ Club. Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and play with the all-star rhythm section.
A new CD Parker recorded vocalist Elena Welch and piano man Greg Hester will be sold in a pre-release version at the tribute celebration. Proceeds from the sale of the CD and this event will be donated to the Parker family to help with their mounting medical bills.
Musicians participating include drummer Bruce David, pianist Alex Evans and bassists Jerry Dicey and Brian McCree. Parker has requested that musicians and vocalists and dancers come to the event and bring lead sheets for a few selections. Please bring at least five copies of each selection. To sign up in advance, please email vocalist, Elena Welch at elena@welchcreative.com, sign up at the event or call 982-8418.
Also requested by organizers are cards with extra donations or a gift to add the gift basket. Bring photos of Parker or gig posters to complete the collage being organized by vocalist Valerie Simpson. Email Valerie with any questions on the gift basket or email photos for the collage to: vcs123@msn.com.