The ukulele might be small, but when put in the right hands it can move mountains, especially when the playing is going toward a great cause. Marshall Kennedy's ukulele group High Strung will perform at the Canmore Legion on Dec.
The ukulele might be small, but when put in the right hands it can move mountains, especially when the playing is going toward a great cause.
Marshall Kennedy's ukulele group High Strung will perform at the Canmore Legion on Dec. 5, along with Something's Fishy, for a benefit concert to help fundraise for the Bow Valley Connections Centre (BVCC).
BVCC's mission is to enhance the quality of life for those with developmental disabilities by fostering social connections, personal growth and involvement in the community. The centre is hosting the concert to help in raising funds for future purchase of equipment for its members.
“There's a sizable fundraiser that we're playing on Dec. 5, at the Canmore Legion from noon to 1 p.m., people just pack in because we have so many ukulele players and they have so many friends,” Kennedy said. “It's going to be a singalong performance with 20 to 25 players, and we'll definitely play some holiday numbers and a little bit of everything, I always say, from Cash to Coldplay.”
Entry to the concert at the Legion is by donation for the community fundraiser, with BVCC co-founder Dorothy Staniforth adding the fun event will help in raising money for equipment for the non-profit group. But it's also about raising awareness of the relatively young organization and to be able to share information about the local community group and its members.
“It helps get the word out, we're only a year old and we're unique; there's nothing like it in Canmore,” Staniforth said. “We've had so much support from the community it's unbelievable. We've had Marshall come in and teach our group how to play the ukulele and now what we've done is purchase ukuleles and it's a part of our program - it's all about giving opportunities for our members to make choices towards what they really like.”
BVCC is currently in the decision process of purchasing a screen and projector, with funds raised from the Dec. 5 concert possibly being used to make the purchase a reality.
“We also have a drama club for group members and we think it would be really cool if they could see themselves on a big screen - what better thing than to be able to show themselves in a positive way doing good and having fun,” Staniforth said.
“Another great thing is we would be able to leave it at the Legion, which could also access it for their benefit. It's a win-win because they have been so generous with us and given us the space, so we want to give back to them as well and keep the partnership going.”
The concert/event is Saturday (Dec. 5), noon to 4 p.m., donate what you can. The event will also include door prizes and a silent auction. High Strung plays from noon to 1 p.m., with Something's Fishy, consisting of Mark Staniforth (piano), Doon Wilkins (vocals, guitar) and Stan Horner (drums) playing from 1-3 p.m.
