About Black History Month performance in Lansing

[Arts.in.Kansas]

As you may know, I have been volunteering with the band groups at Lansing since October. Friday, Feb. 27, the black band(s) will be performing for the inmates in the Minimum unit as part of a Black History Month program. They have three more rehearsals, so I'm not sure how many pieces they will be playing, and whether jazz/blues will be supplemented with gospel and/or rap, but the program promises to be very interesting. I am amazed at their musical abilities.

If you would like to go with me as "visitor(s)," I will need to request "clearance" for you by today, Friday, Feb. 13. If you are even mildly interested, please say yes so I may include your name(s) in the list I submit on Friday the 13th. If your plans change and you can't go, no harm done.

I will email you more info about the complete program and performance times as I get it. As of last night (Thursday, Feb. 12), I do not know more specifically when the bands will be playing than that 5 PM to 8 PM is reserved for their use of Phillips Hall at the Minimum Unit.

Last night's rehearsal was a little rough at times -- some guys were too perfectionistic and other guys had their feelings hurt. I hope I can intervene next week and try to keep a positive atmosphere. When they were "in their groove," a lot of curious onlookers wandered into the practice room to see and hear what was going on. We only had three microphones, and so many onlookers were getting inspired to join in on the vocals, they all had to take turns! I just wish I could record some of these riffs and email each of you an mp3!

If we can carpool to Lansing, that would be GREAT!

PS — I like to be called Phillips now; it's so cool to have both names end in "s."

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Phillips Rhoads

6600 Marty St., Overland Park, KS 66202

Home: 913-722-3938 • Mobile: 913-397-9660 • Fax: 913-273-0717