Calgary Jazz Orchestra hosts benefit concert for Ukraine humanitarian relief
Posted Apr 9, 2022 1:21 pm.
After being virtually idle for two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Calgary Jazz Orchestra is back and putting on a charitable fundraiser for Ukrainian war victims.
The band hits the stage Sunday for a humanitarian relief concert. All proceeds are benefiting the Canadian Ukrainian Foundation.
“It’s just basically to have a big celebration, get everyone together, and put a smile on everyone’s face,” said bandleader Johnny Summers. “And get the players together to play (and) show you what they can do because they are tremendous.”
#Jazz Sunday, April 10 #Calgary, a fabulous concert to raise funds for humanitarian relief in Ukraine! All performers are donating their talent for the cause. Admission by a money donation to the Canadian Ukrainian Foundation. $40 suggested. All amounts gratefully received. https://t.co/F1NlIsEjdt
— Calgaryjazz (@forloveofjazz) April 5, 2022
The jazz performance will feature Ukrainian dancers. It’s a combination that could be historic, believes Summers.
“I think that’ll definitely be the first time we’ve ever had that and maybe the first time that a jazz group has ever had Ukrainian dancers that I know of,” said Summers.
Related Article: More than 60 Ukrainians fleeing Russian invasion land in Edmonton
The Calgary Jazz Orchestra has been performing for nearly two decades.
“We’re going to play something from our Louis Armstrong show, we’re going to play something from our soul-funk show, we’re going to play something from our Disney show,” said Summers.
“So it’s just all music people will either know and love and recognize or maybe it’s the first time they heard it. I want to expose people to new music.”
Related Article: Ukrainian firefighters near Lviv seen wearing gear donated by Edmonton charity
Admission is on a “first-come, first-served” basis. It starts at 7 p.m. at the 400-seat Ukrainian Cultural Centre on Meredith Road N.E.
Admission is also by donation with a recommended donation of $40 per person.
More details can be found on the Calgary Jazz Orchestra’s website.
