Brotherly Love: Musicians Rejoice And Raise Money
PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa. (CBS) -- For two decades, a group of Delaware Valley musicians has raised thousands for needy children. Some of the area's best musicians will hold a free concert this December help those who need help the most -- children.
They are some of the best musicians in the area, voices like angels. This small ensemble calls itself Gaudeamus.
"Gaudeamus is Latin for 'let us rejoice,'" explained Connie Cannon Steuer, pianist and musical director.
They rejoice each year with a free concert at Epiphany of Our Lord Church in Plymouth Meeting. Steuer is one of the group's founders.
"We do a program of traditional, sacred, classical and contemporary Christmas music, all with unique Gaudeamus musical arrangements," said Steuer.
The arrangements showcase their abundance of talent. Soprano Kelly Brobson is one of the youngest and newest members of the ensemble.
"This group has meant so much to the community, and to be a part of something like that it makes me feel really good about yourself," said Brobson.
Not only do these musicians entertain, they give back. Their concerts, CDs and corporate sponsors have raised more than $400,000 for sick children and scholarships.
World-renowned violinist Luigi Mazzocchi is the Pennsylvania Ballet's concert master, but he also loves playing with these musicians.
'"I've come out of Gaudeamus sometimes with tears in my eyes too," said Mazzocchi. "So when we know we're raising money for handicapped kids or things like that, it's great."
This year's concert will be their 20th anniversary, a chance to rejoice with the simple sound of music.
"The power of music is bringing together the glue of the community," said guitarist Michael Simmons. "That's the key."
Gaudeamus has given money to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, St. Christopher's Hospital, and the Kelly Ann Dolan Memorial Fund.
The 20th anniversary candlelight concert is Sunday, December 12, at 7:00 p.m. at Epiphany of Our Lord Church, which is located at 3050 Walton Road in Plymouth Meeting. They will be collecting donations for their charitable works. All concerts are free and open to the public. For more information, please call Constance Cannon Steuer at 610-291-4255.
RELATED LINK:
Reported By: Dave Huddleston, CBS 3
