By Mira Luxion

Chicago music lovers, mark your calendars for April 12! The Music for Food initiative will kick off its first Chicago concert with a feast of chamber music works from Austria.

Now in its fifth season, Music for Food seeks to raise awareness and support for Americans facing hunger. With performers and venues donating their efforts, 100% of audience donations benefit local food pantries. In the words of founder Kim Kashkashian, Music for Food also serves artists’ “need to use our training and talents to serve our community.” To date, Music for Food has funded over 150,000 meals.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository reports that one in six residents of Cook County benefits from food assistance. 69% of clients served live in households with incomes that fall at or below the federal poverty line. Furthermore, upwards of two-thirds of GCFD programs have reported increased demand in the last 12 months (www.chicagosfoodbank.org). Across Illinois, one in seven people struggle with hunger (www.feedingamerica.org).

Whatever its amount, your Music for Food donation will directly benefit those in need. The April 12 concert will take place at 5pm in the intimate recital hall of the Pianoforte Studios (1335 S. Michigan Ave). The program will feature Mozart’s G Major duo for violin and viola, and the Andante movement from his Piano Sonata No. 9; a selection of Schubert Lieder for soprano; and Carl Frühling’s lyrical Clarinet Trio in A Minor. Audience members are requested to bring a cash or check donation, or non-perishable food items. All donations will benefit the South Loop Community Church Food Pantry.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Concert Summary:

Sunday, April 12, 5pm

Pianoforte Studios, 1335 S. Michigan Ave (www.pianofortefoundation.org)

Music of Mozart, Schubert, and Carl Frühling

Please bring a cash or check donation, or non-perishable food items

Music for Food’s Mission Statement

We believe both music and food are essential to human life and growth. Music has the power to call forth the best in human beings and can inspire awareness and action when artists and audiences work together.

Music for Food is a musician-led initiative for local hunger relief that sets forth a model applicable in every community. Concerts raise resources and awareness in the fight against hunger, empowering musicians of all ages who wish to use their artistry to further social justice.

To learn more, or to get involved, visit www.musicforfoodboston.org, or contact musicforfoodinfo@gmail.com.

Cellist Mira Luxion is currently a member of the Musicians Club of Women, the Morton Feldman Chamber Players, and faculty at the Musical Offering, the Lycée Français de Chicago, and the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras. Mira is thrilled to be involved in bring the mission of Music for Food to her hometown.