That a music competition of this caliber could happen in a small, historic town like Jacksonville, Oregon is a testament to the phenomenal commitment to the musical arts in the greater Rogue Valley. This coming February, 2015, twelve of the most expressive, passionate and talented local musicians from Southern Oregon will vie for winning season four of South Stage Cellars’ Rising Stars competition.
This year’s beneficiary recipient, LIFEArt, is a logical extension of supporting the gifted arts that exist right here in our own community. Local non-profit LIFEArt, benefits teens of Jackson County by providing a creative outlet for expression through art and an alternative to anxiety, depression, substance abuse and other high-risk behaviors.
The impact to past winners is immeasurable. Season one winner, Jeff Kloetzel, a soulful, solo acoustic performer, is now one of the preeminent working artists of the Rogue Valley. Kloetzel took top honor for the “Best Local Musician/Singer” for the 2014 Sneak Preview and recently released his first CD, Long Time Coming. Matt Hill, proud winner of season two, has continued to craft his art as a soulful, original songwriter and acoustic guitar player with a northwest vibe. This month he released his first produced music video, “Over You.” The vocal volcano, Cee Cee James, won season three with her blistering voice and old-school blues lyrics. James doesn’t hold anything back on stage as she continues to hit the northwest blues scene with raw force.
Your support this year for season four will help continue to make this competition a reality. Your gift says, “I care about music and local non-profits who are in great need,” and more importantly, “I believe that Southern Oregon benefits from the opportunity to share in this musical experience.” We all have our own musical memories, musical preferences and tastes, but if music is meaningful to you and you care about real needs in our community and you can make a contribution–please do. Prior RS seasons raised over $25,000 for three local non-profits; CASA of Jackson County who advocates for abused and neglected children in court, La Clinica who provides culturally-appropriate, accessible and affordable health care and the Britt Institute, that provides quality music education programs for people of any age and skill levels.
If you would like to become a sponsor, make a cash donation, make a gift of in-kind services or goods or would like to compete…then it’s your time to shine! Please contact Porscha Schiller at porscha111@gmail.com or 541-840-5453.