LEWISTON – The Dave Rowe Trio will give a concert Friday, Feb. 10, at the Franco- American Heritage Center, to raise money and awareness of the importance of music instruction in Lewiston-Auburn schools.

The concert is the brain-child of Doreen Ward, mother of a music student at Lewiston High School, who contacted Rowe to explore the possibility of a concert fundraiser. Rowe, a 1991 graduate of Auburn’s Edward Little High School, contacted Richard Martin, program director at the newly renovated Franco American Heritage Center, and plans quickly came together for the fundraiser.

“It is nice to be able to encourage the next generation of performers who will grace our stage in the not-so-distant future. We are proud to support this endeavor,” Martin said.

Also involved will be the students and parents of the Music Boosters associations at both high schools.

“Among other pressing needs, our marching band has had the same deteriorating uniforms for over fifteen years. We certainly can use the help,” said Norm Davis, president of the ELHS Music Boosters.

“Across the United States, in the wake of budget shortfalls, the arts-education programs are very often the first cuts made in the budget, and this is very sad,” said Rowe.

“Our forebearers played music as therapy for hard times. People knew how to play fiddles, pianos, guitars, banjos and such, and would pull them out in their living rooms at night and at family gatherings and barn dances.”

“Then came radio and phonographs which led us to a state of musical atrophy and eventually apathy. But there is no real replacement for actually being able to play. I guarantee it is better than Prozac,” Rowe said.

The 7:30 p.m. concert will feature student performances, followed by a performance by the nationally renowned Dave Rowe Trio.

Tickets, $12 for general admission, will be sold at Carroll’s Music Center in Lewiston and at the door. Doors will open at 6:50 p.m.

For more information, log on to the Dave Rowe Trio Web site at www.daverowetrio.com or call toll free 866-655-7171.