Jazz Fundraiser at August Wilson Center Features Local Performers

Anyone for a little jazz to clear away the end-of-winter blues?

Pittsburgh performers are in the lineup for the Just Jazz concert at the August Wilson Center on March 6, hosted by Familylinks, with Honorary Chair Chuck Sanders.

Tickets are available now for this fundraising event, which benefits FamilyLinks.

“I think this is such a worthwhile organization,” said Claudia Benack, who grew up in Upper St. Clair and who helped organize the event. “This is the first event like this and we’re hoping to do it annually.”

Vocalist Lisa Yvonne Ferraro, a native Pittsburgher who now lives in the state of California, will bring back the swing of the Big Band era to the stage, performing with Mike Tomaro and the Three Rivers Jazz Orchestra.

Benny Benack, Jr., formerly of Upper St. Clair, will open the show with Pittsburgh-based jazz band Elevations. The emcee for the night is Tony Mowod, President and Founder of the Pittsburgh Jazz Society.

“Lisa very graciously agreed to help us get us started,” Claudia Benack said. “She put together a band, and she’s coming in from California to headline. The whole thing really came together from there. Everyone performing is from Pittsburgh.”

The event includes a cocktail reception and VIP meet-and-greet in addition to the jazz performances, and will raise funds to support Familylinks’ programs and services.

Savoy Restaurant and Lounge will cater hors d’oeuvres and desserts for the event.

“We are excited to invite the community to attend the very first of many ‘Just Jazz’ concert fundraisers to come,” said Familylinks CEO Frederick A. Massey, Jr. “This is a great opportunity for us to let more people know about our mission in our efforts to help more members of the community in need.”

If you’re going:

• What: Just Jazz concert, presented by BNY Mellon Jazz and benefitting FamilyLinks.
• When: March 6 at 7 p.m. A cocktail reception for VIP guests begins at 5:30 p.m.
• Where: August Wilson Center for African American Culture.
• Tickets: VIP tickets, which include a reception and valet parking, are $150. General admission tickets are $75. Tickets are available online at the FamilyLinks website. Click here to buy tickets.

Familylinks is a nonprofit human services organization that provides integrated, family-centered services focused on behavioral, social and developmental health issues. The Pittsburgh branch is located on Banksville Road. For information regarding services please call 412-661-1800 or see www.familylinks.org.

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