Bluegrass concert to benefit orphanage

MADISON – A benefit concert by accomplished folk/bluegrass band Live Roots Ensemble will feature testimonials from former residents of Hogar Metodista, an orphanage in Costa Rica .

Mark and Melissa Thornton will host the concert in the backyard of their home at 177 Mingo Road in Madison, known as Firefly Farms, on Oct. 21 at 7 p.m.

Having completed mission trips to the orphanage, the Thorntons know first-hand about the importance and outreach of Hogar Metodista. “One of the first children adopted through this ministry will attend the concert to give a very personal perspective of what Hogar Metodista can mean for children who have lost parents or been removed from family due to abuse,” Melissa said.

“Bring a lawn chair and picnic supper,” Melissa said. “You can enjoy Costa Rican coffee served along with fixings to make gourmet s’mores. Seating is limited.”

Several businesses have donated raffle prizes for the event. The prizes include passes to Shakalaka and EarlyWorks Museum, two free guitar lessons from the Guitar Center, merchandise and gift cards from Leaf & Creek outdoor store and several others.

Pound bags of Costa Rican coffee will be sold.

Live Roots Ensemble members are Ricky j Taylor – vocals, guitar, bass; Jim Wood – fiddle, cello, mandolin; Inge Wood – vocals, fiddle, guitar, mandolin; Ben Ayers – bass, mandolin; and Kyle Copeland – percussion.

The Live Roots Ensemble’s original music is multi-genre and includes elements of folk, traditional country, bluegrass and even chamber music. Taylor’s songs are grounded in Southern traditions. He has toured with bluegrass artist Claire Lynch.

LRE’s original songs illuminate the human condition and capture emotions with articulate lyrics and musical arrangements. They also feature traditional instrumental tunes performed by award-winning musicians.

“I feel a strong compulsion to help with the cause of the orphanage … not because I share any common experiences with the orphaned children, but because I experienced what I imagine is the diametric opposite of what they must have to endure,” Taylor said. “I hope that my band’s participation makes at least some small, positive difference for the children in Costa Rica.”

The concert is free but donations are encouraged for the orphanage. All donations are tax-deductible.

For information, call 256-509-2626.