Area singers and musicians obviously believe in a steady diet of the arts.
And they’re just as passionate about a steady diet, period, for the sake others.
A group of local performers has organized the Sixth Annual Songs For Love Chapel fundraiser at 3 p.m. Sunday at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2651 California St. in Columbus.
Local singer Lalith “Guy” Paranavitana, well known in the arts community especially for his rendition of Frank Sinatra tunes, loves being a part of the event that helps the local Christian pantry and outreach that is now helping more than 1,200 families monthly. He first proposed the fundraiser — one that seems especially important now as Love Chapel faces record numbers at its pantry and also at its meal sites and its Brighter Days emergency shelter.
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“I just think this is just a wonderful opportunity to give something back,” Paranavitana said. “For me, that is so fulfilling.”
He will join jazz guitarist Barney Quick, and singers Camilla Gehring, Jennifer Heichelbech, Mark and Ann Owens, and Matt Gordon at the gathering that attracted some 150 people and raised $1,000 last year. Also, the St. Paul’s choir and men’s quartet will be featured.
All but Quick have been a part of past versions of the event.
“When we all first discussed getting this off the ground, they were very eager,” Paranavitana said.
Andrew Goldsmid is part of the church’s outreach team and sees Love Chapel as a significant component of helping the needy, considering that the nonprofit also helps the struggling with utilities and more.
“Supporting Love Chapel is a priority for St. Paul’s and for me personally,” Goldsmid said.
Same for Quick, who has played at a wide range of local events over the years. In fact, he used to be a volunteer helping clients shop for groceries on Saturday mornings at the pantry.
“I feel kind of a special affinity for the place,” Quick said.
He plans to perform two instrumentals: George Shearing’s “Lullaby of Birdland,” and “In a Sentimental Mood,” a Duke Ellington tune. Quick mentioned that with guitar-only performances, he regularly selects songs “with chord-voicings that sound like a complete and full arrangement.”
Paranavitana hopes for a gathering as successful as last year’s.
“I think that everybody knows Love Chapel and they know it does a great job in the community — especially for people needing help at this time of year,” he said.
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What: Songs for Love Chapel, featuring local artist performing a variety of music.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday.
Where: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2651 California St. in Columbus.
Admission: Free, but donations of money or food will be accepted for the Love Chapel food pantry.
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