When I first heard the East Lansing band, Orange Nature, their sound conjured up images of medieval street musicians roaming about the English countryside. I’m not sure if that’s their intention, but I sure did enjoy the whimsical sound of jazz played in this unique and surprising way.
Known for their original tunes and edgy arrangements, these multi-talented players incorporate everything from harmonium to harmonica, and are likely to cover more than a few Beatles tunes during performances like the one at Mumbai Cuisine in East Lansing recently.
You can hear them next at “Local Jazz, Global Activism” an annual fund raising event for The Education for the Future Foundation, a nonprofit that provides high school scholarships to boys and girls in Kenya. The foundation sponsors secondary school educations for students in a region where the challenges of young people are more than most in the west could ever comprehend.
EFF volunteer, MSU student and coordinator for this now annual event, Claire Glenn says, “EFF plants the seeds for personal development as well as empowering the communities where the students live.”
The foundation works closely with local schools and communities to provide capable students with access to education. Young people who have benefited can’t say enough about the impact this assistance has on their lives.
“I joined high school in 2003. EFF came to my aid in 2004 when I almost dropped out of school due to inability to pay fees,” writes Madara. “I am now a medical student at University of Nairobi.”
“Because of EFF’s help, I wasn’t forced to go in and out of school,” says Effie, another recipient,
“This opportunity has changed my view of the world,” Aloise tells people. “I am now more focused and goal-oriented in my life than ever before.”
A young man named Tumme describes his own experience, saying,
“Without EFF I would be nowhere near where I am, and nothing close to what I am today. I have been admitted to Moi University to pursue a degree in Medicine and Surgery. I want to specialize in gynecology which would pave a way for me to give back to my community, especially women who still go through the brutal acts of Female Genital Mutilation and other lethal traditional practices.”
The fundraiser and performance by Orange Nature will be held on Sunday, November 21st, 2010 from 4-6 PM at The Vineyard Cafe in the big barn, corner of Jolly and Hagadorn Rds. Just in time for the holidays, a silent auction will feature artisan jewelry, tapestries, and woodwork from Kenya, as well as gift certificates to local businesses.
For more details and ticket prices, visit http://www.educationforthefuture.org or on Facebook events at the link below.
