Hotel Congress to host concert series named after Tucson bluesman

A trio of Tucson female bands will headline the first-ever George Howard Concert Series at Hotel Congress on Sunday, Feb. 25.

The Jane Heirs, Mitzi Cowell and the Valiants, and Miss Olivia and the Interlopers will perform from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday on the Congress Plaza Stage, 311 E. Congress St. Proceeds from the concert ($20 suggested donation at the door) will benefit the Tucson Musicians Museum’s mentorship program.

This mentorship program, a critical component of the museum’s mission, matches professional musicians with their young counterparts, especially in underserved areas. The program is a partnership with public and charter schools, established music-related organizations and youth-oriented clubs. The goal is to develop sustained youth/mentor relationships that will help preserve and pass on Tucson’s rich music legacy.

Funding from the TMM Mentorship Program goes to help purchase instruments and books for the students and to financially compensate the mentor musicians “for their time and contribution to youths’ education,” according to TMM officials.

The concert series is named after Howard, a longtime Tucson blues musician who died last April at the age of 72. Howard co-founded the TMM in 2007 and mentored young Tucson musicians, including several who have gone on to successful music careers.

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