Hi friends -

We’ll be taking part in a special benefit concert for Haiti this weekend (Sunday evening) at the Kennedy School here in Portland – the show starts at 7pm and was organized by our good friend (and sometimes bandmate) Mattie Kaiser.  I know it’s last minute notice, but if you live in the area we’d love to see you there – there is still tremendous need in Haiti, it’s a free show and 100% of donations from this show will go to Parters in Health.  And every little bit helps.  Here’s the official press release:

On January 24th at 7pm at the Kennedy School, Classical Revolution PDX and friends will perform a free benefit concert to raise funds for relief in Haiti. 100% of donations received will go to Partners in Health. Classical Revolution is delighted to be joined by Matt Sheehy, Opera Theater Oregon, The Dimes, Sophe Lux, Travis Dow, James Faretheewell and many other special guests for a very eclectic and fun night of chamber music.

A silent auction will occur during the performance, with products and services donated by local artists and businesses. Items for auction include event tickets, fine photography, haircuts, massages, and many of the performers are donating private lessons.

Briana Ratterman, a member of Classical Revolution, has been working around the clock to help with the search for her father, Walt Ratterman, who has been missing since the earthquake. Ratterman is CEO and co-founder of SunEnergy Power International. He was in Haiti working on a project to improve the delivery of energy to health care facilities run by Partners in Health. “Our thoughts and love are with Briana and her family,” says Mattie Kaiser, Executive Director of Classical Revolution PDX. “We found it fitting to donate to the incredible work that that Walt and Partners in Health do to contribute to a better life in Haiti.”

On October 19th, 1781 – almost 230 years ago today – British troops under the command of General Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, all but ending the war for American Independence.  Cornwallis was so ashamed at his defeat that he didn’t even attend the surrender, claiming he was ill and sending a subordinate to deliver his sword instead – no matter, General Washington and the Americans (with a great deal of help from the French) had finally won their freedom and as the British band played “The World Turned Upside Down” it must have truly seemed so.

Granted, the new record is about Boston and this didn’t happen in Boston, but it all certainly started there and it seemed appropriate to post…and I’m sure there was quite the celebration in Boston…

Here’s hoping you have a great week and we’ll hopefully see you soon…for those in Seattle and Portland, don’t forget the CD release shows are coming up – Nov. 13th in Seattle @ the Tractor Tavern and Nov. 14th in Portland @ Mississippi Studios!

See you then,

Johnny