Since 2018, Havurah Shir Hadash, 185 N. Mountain,Ashland, has given homeless families the opportunity to park overnight in its parking lot. To cover the expenses in offering this service, there is a benefit concert on Saturday, April 13, 7-9pm. Performers include ANAN Gaelic Choir under the direction of Pat O’Scannel, singer/songwriter Gene Burnett and folk singer Daniel Jokelson. Cost is a $20 donation at the door. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
The ANAM Gaelic Choir was founded in December, 2022 by Pat O’Scannell, director of MUSICA MATRIX. The vocal ensemble presents songs in Irish Gaelic learned by ear from director O’Scannell, who has sung for over 30 years in the Irish language. Her efforts are both in preserving Irish culture through its language and music, and also to honor her own heritage, and grandfather who came from Tralee in County Kerry, Ireland.
ANAM will sing a variety of traditional Irish songs in what is referred to as ‘sean nos’ style, which, simply stated, means traditional. The songs are sung unaccompanied, or to a drone. Other instruments such as the shruti box, whistle, guitar and bodhran will be included. The songs speak of rural Irish origins with herding songs, spinning songs, shearing songs, love songs and songs mourning the passing of life. The single line melodies are lyrical and poignant, with rich nuance of ornamentation and the subtle bending of tone and inflection giving it its identifiable sound.
Burnett, who calls himself “an acoustic troubadour singing heartfelt songs for thinking people”, has written over 800 songs. Covering a wide range of topics and styles, his songs explore the ecology of human relationships based on the Taoist idea of using less force and following an inner sense of rightness. Burnett’s performances are funny and serious, cynical and tender-hearted, sweet and edgy, emotional and intellectual. Find out more about Burnett at http://www.geneburnett.com/
Originally from Berkeley, musician and actor/improviser Jokelson has lived in Ashland for the last 16 years. Jokelson’s music incorporates the sounds of the folk singers, pop songs and musicals he grew up as well as Americana and world music. His original songs speak to the personal — the range of relationships and experiences that illuminate and change us.
Since 2018, Havurah Shir Hadash has helped over 50 families gain stability by offering a safe place to park their RVs and vehicles. The parking lot can accommodate three vehicles a night. In addition to a place to park, members of the congregation have helped families find the resources needed to find permanent housing.
