Gaines will share his talent for a night of thought provoking, music in this special benefit performance sponsored by the HACC Foundation. Proceeds from the concert will go to support the artist's Scholarship for the Performing Arts. The scholarship is awarded to HACC students in financial need who are enrolled in two or more performing arts courses (includes music merchandising).
"It is both an honor and privilege to be able to o this," says Gaines about the benefit performance. "It never hurts to combine your artistic gifts with a formal education. The more you learn, the more you can advocate for yourself and your personal choices."
Gaines' support in lending a helping hand extends beyond his hometown. In the following days after the terrorist attacks on September 11, Gaines joined other artists, athletes and many other celebrities in a tribute on September 22. The effort was coordinated by Nile Rodgers, formerly of the group Chic, and featured luminaries such as Diana Ross, Patti Labelle, Darius Rucker (Hootie and the Blowfish) and various members of the New York Knicks, singing an eclectic version of the 1979 dance hit, "We Are Family." Proceeds from the sale of the recording went to organizations that promote racial tolerance and understanding.
Gaines successful 2001 solo album, "Always Be," contains his critically acclaimed version of Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes." Last summer Gaines went on tour, opening for the former lead vocalist of Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks. Nicks' long awaited solo project and tour, Trouble in Shangri-La, found Gaines in some of the largest venues in the country.
The HACC Foundation will be presenting its annual scholarship awards during a ceremony the day before the benefit concert, where Gaines will be on hand to present his Scholarship for the Performing Arts to the recipient. The artist is slated to offer a special, post-ceremony, performance, in recognition of the many students and donors who exemplify HACC's commitment to academic excellence and perseverance.
The May 3 benefit concert is sponsored by the HACC Foundation. Tickets are $25 each. All proceeds will go to the artist's Scholarship for the Performing Arts. For more information or for advanced ticket reservations, contact the HACC Foundation, at (717) 780-2363, or send email to ledillar@hacc.edu.