Classical, Jazz Favorites Flow at Birch Creek

Reggie and Mardra Thomas. Submitted.

Birch Creek has begun its Fall Concert Series. The next performance, on Sept. 11, 7 pm, will feature pianist and Birch Creek Symphony Session faculty member Jodie DeSalvo. She’ll present Classical Favorites, including works by Debussy, Beethoven and George Gershwin.

On Sept. 18, 7 pm, Birch Creek faculty members José Encarnación, saxophone, and Dane Richeson, percussion, will bring their Lawrence University Jazz Quintet to perform original compositions and exciting interpretations of jazz standards.

The Birch Creek Associates’ Annual Fall Fundraiser on Oct. 9 will be an evening of heartwarming jazz classics courtesy of pianist Reggie Thomas and vocalist Mardra Thomas, plus delicious food and fine company. Bassist Jeff Campbell and guitarist Rick Haydon will accompany the jazz duo.

The fundraiser’s social time will start at 5:30 pm, followed by heavy hors d’oeuvres catered by Alexander’s and a cash bar at 6 pm. The concert will begin at 7 pm. All proceeds from the sales of fundraiser tickets ($70 per person) benefit Birch Creek students. There will be limited seating, ventilated space, distanced tables and masks required until seated. Matinee and evening Christmas at Birch Creek concerts are also planned for Dec. 4.