Jim Knapp Fundraiser

[sgriggs2400]

I am working with a small fundraising team to help composer, teacher, trumpeter Jim Knapp.

Jim established the jazz program at Cornish College 40 years ago and continues to teach there today. His unique big band music appears on 3 CDs by the Jim Knapp Orchestra, Secular Breathing, On Going Home, and Things for Now. His latest project is Scrape, a small string orchestra plus harp and guitar. He compiled his personal approach to arranging in a book "Jazz Harmony." Jim's compositions and lessons have inspired a wide variety of musicians from Jim McNeely to Myra Melford. He was born in Chicago and graduated from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana with a BA and MA in Music Composition.

Jim recently lost his right leg to diabetes and has incurred medical and home care expenses beyond his insurance coverage. Our fundraising goal is $30,000.

There is a benefit concert of Jim's music on November 2 at the Triple Door in Seattle. It is cosponsored by Cornish College and Earshot Jazz as part of the Earshot Festival. Tickets are $24 general admission, $12 for students, and are available from the Triple Door by calling 206-838-4333 or going to the online calendar. All ticket proceeds will go to Jim.

We also accept donations by credit card at www.jimknappmusic.com/donate.

We are planning to release a CD of music donated by Jim's colleagues and former students in the near future. Included will be music by Brad Shepik, Aaron Alexander, Briggan Krauss, Mizue Murikami, Arnold Hammershlag, Myra Melford, Tim Young, Brent Arnold, Jay Thomas, and CUG.

We are also planning a concert in February, 2012. Details will be available soon.

Please share this information with all who may be interested.

Steve Griggs

206-523-4983

stevegriggsmusic.blogspot.com/