Jazz at its best is the music offered by the Jenn Forsland Group, performing April 2 at the Mex Pub in support of the Comox Valley Hospice Society.
The group has been playing music together for the past four years and describes their musical journey as an absolute delight. Their repertoire is a blend of contemporary and standard tunes, all with a jazzy twist.
It is genuinely a collaborative effort as each player brings his or her unique and broad skill set to the band. The tunes evolve with everyone's input and the result is an eclectic set of repertoire that blurs the lines between jazz and pop.
Forsland moved to the Comox Valley seven years ago and has consistently enjoyed the bountiful opportunities available to musicians and music lovers.
In addition to teaching at two schools, she also directs the Celebration Singers, performs with multiple other bands, and plays as a solo act. She plays the keyboard and provides the beautiful vocals and engaging stage personality that makes the group so distinctive.
Guitarist Rick Husband and bass player Grahame Edwards are well woven into the tapestry of the local music scene, each with an impressive list of accomplishments and collaborators.
Rachel Fuller burst onto the local music scene a couple of years ago and has travelled the world several times over playing sax in touring ensembles and on cruise ships. She is sitting in for Tony Morrison, who regularly plays with the JFG.
The donations collected at the door as admission will support the programs offered by the Comox Valley Hospice Society.
This organization of compassionate volunteers provides support to families during times of critical illness and bereavement. They offer respite care for caregivers, vigil services, they loan hospital beds, and offer help with some of the difficult questions that arise when someone is at the end of life.
In addition to counselling services, they also have a resource library of books, music and information that can offer gentle guidance, compassion, and support.
For a complete list of services offered by the Comox Valley Hospice Society, visit www.comoxhospice.com.
The concert series is in its fifth year and is sponsored by the Mex Pub. The evening begins at 7:30 p.m. with an opening set by hosts and organizers Judy and Bruce Wing with the Jenn Forsland Group to follow at 8.
Blaine Dunaway will add to the evening’s musical menu. Food bank donations are welcome and appreciated.
For more information about the monthly 1st Tuesday Fundraiser concert series, visit www.judyandbruce.com/foodbank.
— 1st Tuesday Fundraisers