MSU College of Music and Cristo Rey Community Center kick off partnership concerts Mar. 18 and 25

EAST LANSING, Mich. MSU College of Music is on the move, reaching out into the Lansing community. Student musical groups will be performing two concerts for children, youth and seniors at Cristo Rey Community Center in March. marking the beginning of a partnership between the college and the community center.

"We're excited about forming this partnership with Cristo Rey, an agency that is vital to so many living in the Lansing community," said Rhonda Buckley. associate dean for outreach and engagement at the college. "Educational activities for children and youth are an important part of the mission of Cristo Rey. The College of Music feels it can assist with this mission while giving our music students a deeper connection with the community."

"We are hopeful that this partnership will encourage our youth to enjoy music and possibly encourage a few to explore their musical talents," said John Roy Castillo, director of Cristo Rey Community Center.

Two performances are scheduled:

• March 18 at 5 p.m. Viridian Saxophone Quartet
• March 25 at 5 p.m. Jazz Quartet

The Cristo Rey Community Center is located at 1717 North High Street in Lansing. Both concerts are free and the public is invited to attend. Popcorn and punch will be provided.

"We are kicking off our partnership with these two performances. We anticipate the partnership evolving to include an on going concert series or private music lessons for interested students," said Buckley.

Most of the people served by Cristo Rey are low income and would not otherwise have access to such services.