Fairfield University to host benefit concert May 7th for scholarship in the name of Kim and Tim Donnelly | Press Releases

Legendary Allman Brothers drummer Jaimoe, the Fairfield University Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble, Eric Donnelly's band "The Alternate Routes," and the local band "Prophets of Funk," will pay tribute to Fairfield residents Kim and Tim Donnelly at a concert celebration on Saturday, May 7.

The groups will put on two separate but identical performances at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. in the Kelley Theatre of the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. Proceeds from the concert, "With a Little Help From our Friends: A Concert Celebration to Benefit the Kim and Tim Donnelly Music Scholarship," will go toward the creation of a scholarship in their name to assist a Fairfield University music student.

The concert will feature a variety of selections, including songs by Torff and music of the Beatles, a favorite of the Donnellys, whose own lives touched many in the Fairfield community. The Donnellys were killed early this month in their Fairfield Center jewelry store.

"The Donnellys had many ties to Fairfield University and the community here really wants an opportunity to see that they are remembered in a positive and lasting way," said Brian Torff, director of Fairfield University's jazz and popular music program.

Kim Donnelly worked in Fairfield University's finance office for many years before joining her husband at Donnelly Jewelry. The Donnellys' son Eric and daughter Tara both graduated from Fairfield in 2001 and 2003 respectively. Tara went on to earn her MBA in 2004. Eric has taught guitar as an Applied Music Teacher at Fairfield University since his senior year.

"The Alternate Routes," a rock band Eric formed with fellow Fairfield grad Tim Warren '03, will be among the performers at the May 7 concert. "The Prophets of Funk," a local band formed by students at the Fairfield high schools and Fairfield College Preparatory School will also perform. The Fairfield University Orchestra will be joined by Fairfield's Academic Vice President and accomplished pianist Dr. Orin Grossman, as well as Dr. Timothy Law Snyder, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, who will sing and play guitar. Brian Torff will also accompany the Orchestra on bass and direct the Fairfield University Jazz Ensemble, which will feature guest artist Jaimoe. Members of the Fairfield University music faculty will also perform.

Tickets to the either performance are $100 or $50. Those who cannot attend are also invited to donate to the scholarship fund. For more information, contact Dr. Laura Nash, (203) 254-4000 x2638 or LNash@mail.fairfield.edu . Tickets may be purchased from the box office at the Quick Center or by calling them at (203) 254-4010 or toll-free, 1-877-ARTS-396. To make a donation to the fund, which is fully tax-deductible, please mail a check to Development Office, Fairfield University, 1073 North Benson Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824. To make a credit card donation call (203) 254-4000, ext. 3179.