Submitted
The fourth annual International Blues Music Day concert raised $2,200 for music programs at Trafalgar Middle School and L.V. Rogers Secondary.
Justin Ratzburg, the new music teacher for both Nelson schools, said the money will help new musicians.
“All of our Grade 6 [students] in Trafalgar will be taking music this year so the money will be put to good use whether repairing or buying new instruments,” he said.
Organized by Baker Street Blues musicians Stelio Calagias and Phil Wilson-Birks, the blues festival has raised nearly $7,200 over the past four years.
“We are delighted to have the emotional and financial support of our local professional musicians,” said School District 8 superintendent Christine Perkins.
Calagias and Wilson-Birks were supported in the fundraiser by many other musicians including: White Lightning Blues Band, Railtown, Sam Hurrie, Mr. Aardvark, Rick Lingard, Michael Perkins, and guest vocalists Sydney Black and Big Momma Blue. Special thanks to Roger Henthorn for donating a custom Fender Bass guitar. The district also thanked Finley’s Bar and Grill for hosting.
International Blues Music Day is a worldwide event dedicated to the celebration, promotion, and reservation of the rich legacy, tradition and future of blues music.