Dirigo English teacher Charles Maddaus and his son, Jacob, recently released the “Take a Breath” CD, the proceeds of which will be dedicated to world hunger.

Maddaus, along with other musicians who are staff alumni of Camp Calumet, a Lutheran camp in Ossipee, N.H., decided to do what they like best and do something worthwhile at the same time.

All money earned from the album will go to the World Hunger Program of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Many of the songs are original compositions by the musicians themselves, limiting the costs of paying for rights. According to Maddaus, about 24,000 people die every day from hunger or hunger-related causes. One dies every 3.6 seconds, the time needed to take a breath, hence the title of the CD.

“The Release Party in Hartford was really more than I could have ever imagined,” Maddaus said. “The CD’s were literally flying out after the concert and party in Hartford.”

The CD features 14 soulful and jazzy religious songs and were chosen for easy listening.

Jacob Maddaus, a drummer and high school sophomore, was elated and proud to be featured with his dad on three of the 14 songs on the album. He said he got his first drum set the Christmas he was four and has been drumming ever since. He plays in the jazz band at Dirigo High School.

Maddaus said he occasionally plays and sings for his students in the classroom and sometimes in a faculty band. He has been playing and composing for more than 30 years and compares his style to James Taylor, one of his first idols. He has copyrighted four songs and has written several others.

“It’s an awesome feeling to be part of a community effort to address this global issue,” said Maddaus. “And we all hope that many others will join us in helping to end hunger in the world.”

Anyone wishing to purchase the “Take a Breath” CD may call Maddaus at 562-7360. All proceeds go to World Hunger. The check donation, a minimum of $15, should be made out to ELCA World Hunger and mailed to Charlie Maddaus, P.O. Box 3, Dixfield, ME 02444.



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