New York, NY (MMG, Inc.) -- The Multicultural
Music Group, Inc. (MMG) will commemorate ten years of teaching music to inner city youth with a benefit concert that will unite two generations with one goal: promoting free music education. Eight-time Grammy winner Eddie Palmieri will join forces with one of the Latin music world's young stars, singer Victor Manuelle, at 8 PM on December 1, 2006 at Manhattan Center's Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, on Eighth Avenue and 34th Street.
"Two Generations" will benefit MMG's educational programs headed by Executive Director, Dr. Luis Mojica. For 10 years, MMG has struggled to provide music education in many of NYC's public schools, preparing students for a musical education and for admission to prestigious music programs. MMG's students have been able to excel in their musical skills and in their academic performance, as well. "Our students have excelled in music and in their other studies and can be expected to continue to succeed in both areas," said Mojica. MMG has served over 5000 students, tutored 400 for admission to specialized music schools and prepared hundreds for professional music careers.
In addition to its instructional component, the MMG Orchestra, led by Academy Award Nominee, Ray Santos, has also presented live concerts as methods of raising funds and awareness. Past concerts include:
• the Multicultural Music Encounters, a five part concert highlighting Jewish, African American, Latin, Chinese and Middle Eastern musical traditions,
• a Tribute to Charlie Palmieri in 2004 at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, where Latin music and Jazz stars integrated their classic sounds with the 30-piece symphonic MMG Orchestra and
• "Listen Here! 50 Years of Eddie Palmieri!" in conjunction with Aaron Davis Hall, celebrating Eddie Palmieri's 50 years of musical excellence. Mr. Palmieri has been the Honorary Chairman of MMG since 2004.
Since being formed in 1996, MMG has received many commendations for its efforts towards quality music education and for its work toward racial harmony and cultural diversity. In 1999, MMG was recognized by President Clinton's "Initiative on Race" as an organization with "Promising Practices for Racial Reconciliation." In 2002, the Civil Rights Coalition for the 21st Century granted MMG "Promising Program" recognition for its efforts in promoting multicultural understanding and world peace.
The "Two Generations" 10th Anniversary concert will also feature the MMG Orchestra – a symphonic music ensemble of over 30 professional musicians under the direction of Ray Santos featuring great performers from the Latin music category such Mario Rivera, Bobby Porcelli, Papo Pepin, Johnny Rivero, Lewis Kahn, Kevin Brian and many more. In addition special appearance will include jazz and salsa musicians Conrad Herwig, Brian Lynch and vocalist, Herman Olivera. Musical collaborations between pianist Eddie Palmieri and Victor Manuelle will be highlighted at the concert as well as special presentations by the other accomplished artists.
Tickets will go on sale in October via Ticket Master. For more information, please visit www.multiculturalmusic.org, or call 718-442-9870.
