$10K raised for Tony Rice in CT

Tony Rice benefit show in Hamden, CT (4/19/14) - photo © Marilyn CatasusLast weekend, GuitartownCT Productions held their Tony Rice benefit at the Unitarian Hall in Hamden, CT. A bevy of top northeastern bluegrass talent performed to help raise money to support Tony financially while he works to reclaim his voice, and receive treatment for the arthritis that has stolen away his ability to play guitar.

Chris Wuerth, who arranged and promoted the event, shared this mini-review of the show.

Tony Trischka and Rob Ickes at the Tony Rice benefit show in Hamden, CT (4/19/14) - photo © Marilyn Catasus“Josh Williams led a stellar band with Rob Ickes dobro, Jesse Brock mandolin, Mike Barnett fiddle, Paul Kowert bass and Gary Filgate banjo, playing an hour and a half set of Tony’s songs. The second set featured Tony Trischka’s solo banjo, and Phil Rosenthal, formerly of the Seldom Scene. Chris Eldridge and Dominick Leslie played Church Street Blues, among others.

One of the highlights of the evening was Josh Williams and Chris Eldridge playing, in unison and note for note, the entire Tony Rice solo from Cattle In the Cane. The whole band got back on stage for a long and fired up Nine Pound Hammer. The concert, presented by GuitartownCT Productions of Hamden, CT, raised almost ten thousand dollars, which will be given to Tony, along with a guest book signed by most of the patrons.

Tony Rice benefit show in Hamden, CT (4/19/14) - photo © Marilyn CatasusIt was amazing, Tony’s spirit was fully in the house. I hope he can translate all the support into some positive energy that will help him recover physically and emotionally, and get back out on the road again. Fingers crossed.”

Sounds like a magical night. Hats off to Chris for staging this concert, to all the artists who donated their time, and to the music lovers who came out in support.

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About the Author

John Lawless

John had served as primary author and editor for The Bluegrass Blog from its launch in 2006 until being folded into Bluegrass Today in September of 2011. He continues in that capacity here, managing a strong team of columnists and correspondents.