Howard’s Club H to host benefit concert for music education

From JOSEPH WOLPH FOUNDATION FOR MUSIC EDUCATION

On Saturday, April 18, Howard’s Club H in Bowling Green will present “Notes 4 Tomorrow,” a benefit concert supporting the Joseph Wolph Foundation for Music Education. Proceeds from the night support the foundation’s mission to provide funds to music educators in northwest Ohio.

At least 10 music acts are on the line-up. Performing artists from the Toledo area include Nikki D. and The Sisters of Thunder, Greg Dale, Chloe and The Steel Strings, Echo Record, Jeff Stewart, and Laurie Swyers and New Moon. From Bowling Green, Milk On The Rocks and Vague will appear. Also on the bill is frequent Howard’s performer Mark Mikel in a special appearance with Leadfoot Granny.

“Howard’s is the premier music venue in our area,” said Mikel. “Everything there focuses on making the performers look and sound their best.”

Howard’s owner Steve Feehan is also a musician. He’ll debut his still-unnamed new band at “Notes 4 Tomorrow.”

“Howard’s enjoys a special place in the music scene,” Feehan said. “Giving back is essential to that. I’m excited to launch a new band at this fundraiser and hope to jam with some of the best musicians from the area. This is one of the biggest lineups in Howard’s long history.”

Since 2021, the Joseph Wolph Foundation has supported local music programs by awarding nearly $20,000 in grants, primarily funding instrument replacement, but also marching band projects, scholarships, and other needs. “Notes 4 Tomorrow” marks the first time that local musicians have united to support the Wolph Foundation.

Nikki D. Brown, a star in the international sacred steel scene, believes music education is “a big part of the lifeblood of our community. Where would we be without music teachers? How can kids learn without instruments?”

“Notes 4 Tomorrow” is an all-ages show, with music starting no later than 7 p.m. on April 18. Entry to the event is $10 at the door. “‘Ten bands for ten bucks’ was a goal of ours,” said Glenn Burris, who is organizing the event with Howard’s. Burris is a founding member of the Wolph Foundation, and added, “I don’t think you’ll find a better night out this year in BG or the whole Toledo area for that matter. And we have the musicians of our community to thank for it. Don’t be surprised if more folks turn up to sit in than are advertised.”

The Wolph Foundation is seeking volunteers to help ensure the success of “Notes 4 Tomorrow.” Assistance is welcome for publicity, sponsorships, technical support, artist hospitality, social media, and more. Anyone interested can reach the foundation through the event webpage, notes4tomorrow.org. Those who cannot make it to Howard’s on April 18 can make a donation at the same website.