The Red River Rhythm Independent Percussion will host its first annual Evening with the Rhythm fundraiser Saturday, March 18.
The event will be held at Parkway High School beginning at 6 p.m. and includes a spaghetti dinner with performances by soloists and an ensemble of members of R3. There will also be an auction and merchandise for sale.
Red River Rhythm Independent Percussion is a non-profit organization made up of members from ages 14 to 22 that’s based out of Bossier City. Founded by local percussion instructors (Grant Shelton, Mitch Ernst, Joel Burris, and Troy Moses), the organization exists solely to inspire and educate young musicians; and to provide them with the skills needed to succeed now and far into the future.
Ultimately, they hope to put Louisiana on the map by competing at the international level. R3 (Red River Rhythm) is a traveling performing ensemble of 30 percussionists that compete and entertain around the state giving the students a chance to perform at a high level.
“Music is truly the greatest of the arts, and no one can doubt that,” Troy Moses, Director of Operations, said. “Music in the state of Louisiana is growing smaller every year and we at Red River Rhythm believe that this shouldn’t happen. Music gives a student a chance to escape the stressful World around us to be able to play soothing music in class. Red River Rhythm stands to keep music in schools and in the hands of students all over the world.”
Unfortunately, these things come with a price. Members pay upwards of about $300 to participate in this organization and the staff is all voluntary based.
The money paid by the members only covers about three quarters of the total expenses needed to continue through the season. This means that organization has to fundraise the rest of the expenses needed to travel and purchase the rest of the equipment needed to finish production of the show.
Donations can be made through their website at www.rrrpercussion.com/merch/ or by phone at 318-680-5703 or by email: rrrpercussion@gmail.com.
