VCU Hosts Benefit Concert For Children’s Health Organization

By Malorie Burkett and Michala Smith

Virginia Commonwealth University will host a jazz benefit concert for Children's Medical Services International, a local, nonprofit foundation that provides medical care for children in developing countries.  

The program titled "Night at the Singleton" will take place Sunday, Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. in VCU's W.E.SingletonCenter, Vlahcevic Concert Hall, 922 Park Ave.

Organized by Antonio Garcia, VCU's director of jazz studies, the program will feature jazz tunes from an eclectic list of performers, including the Shiny Stockings Trio, the Lindsay Family Brass/Jazz Quintet and members of the VCU Symphony Orchestra, directed by VCU professor Jean Montes. 

Programs in Jamaica and other locations have benefited from the work of volunteers and from the donation of medical goods, including newborn ventilators and surgical and dental equipment, according to Charles E. Bagwell, M.D., professor and chair of VCU's Division of Pediatric Surgery. Bagwell is vice president of Children's Medical Services International.

An hors d'oeuvres reception will take place after the concert. Tickets are $50, which includes the concert and reception. Tickets for the concert only will be available to area students with a valid school ID at the door for $5. For more information, call 828-3500.

Children's Medical Services International is a non-profit organization that supports and promotes programs to benefit children's health and development worldwide.