Music for Humanity event returns April 16, will feature 6 groups

Pioneer United Methodist Church (PUMC) invites the public to the 32nd Music for Humanity program on Sunday, April 16, at 3 p.m. at 1338 Lincoln Way in Auburn. Six groups of talented musicians will perform a variety of musical selections, including classical and modern styles. By popular demand, former Music for Humanity favorite performers are returning to share their talents. They include the amazing Colla Voce Chamber Singers, directed by Janine Dexter; Toot Sweet Brass Co.; Serenade, a viola/cello duo featuring David Thorp and George Weis; Nancy Thym, harpist/folk singer; Thom Greathouse organ/piano; and Buffalo Gals (West). Toot Sweet Brass Co. is a quintet of professional and semi-professional brass musicians assembled by George Preston. Founded in 2008, they play contemporary pieces written for brass quintet and arrangements of older and modern classics. With their variety of music and virtuoso interpretations, they bring an enjoyably different meaning to the concept of chamber music. Greathouse, a professional from Nevada County, will play some of Pioneer's 365 seldom-heard original organ pipes. His selection may include classical and silent movie music. Thym, an Auburn native, is returning from Germany just in time to sing and play folk songs on her harp for Music for Humanity. She's recognized internationally and locally as a gifted singer, harpist and storyteller. Buffalo Gals (West) is known for providing "rollicking fun" at Grass Valley's Wild Eye Pub and other venues, often raising funds for worthy causes. All performers are donating their time and talents to benefit the Auburn Interfaith Food Closet (AIFC) and for The Gathering Inn's (TGI) meals served at PUMC. Empty bread baskets will be passed to collect funds on behalf of these performances, which will be donated to feed the hungry in the Auburn area. More information is available at www.pioneerumc.org or 530-885-9009. "We are grateful to be a recipient of this wonderful event," AIFC President Andy Hayes stated. "PUMC has always been a strong supporter of our mission in both donations and volunteers." Keith Diederich, TGI President and CEO, added, "The Gathering Inn has benefitted greatly from the care and support of PUMC over the years. We remain grateful to be among the beneficiaries of their special ministry." Checks may be made out to PUMC and designated for Music for Humanity, Pioneer United Methodist Church, 1338 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603. Pioneer United Methodist Church is the oldest church in Placer County serving the Auburn community since 1852. Music for Humanity was started in 1990 to benefit a number of its outreach ministries. Over the years, the audiences have grown and helped to benefit many humanitarian programs, especially those who suffer from food insecurities. AIFC serves individuals and families living in central Placer County. There are no income requirements to register as an AIFC client. For information, call 530-885-1921 or visit auburnfoodcloset.org. The AIFC is located at 1788 Auburn Ravine Road, just off the Foresthill exit on Interstate 80. Since 2004, The Gathering Inn has reached out to countless individuals experiencing homelessness aiming to welcome new beginnings and transform lives. Originally, as a winter-only shelter, 40 individuals were served each night. Today, TGI has multiple locations that daily serve more than 250 individuals and families as they journey from homelessness to sustainable housing.