Musician Jim Scott to perform in Kirkland

Acclaimed acoustic guitarist Jim Scott will perform an evening of his songs of peace and the environment at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 in the Chapel at Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church, 315 3rd Ave S, Kirkland.

With insight and more than a little humor, Scott makes his case for harmony in the world with a jazz/world folk music styling and some great guitar technique in accompaniment. Suggested donation is $10 for adults and $20 for families.

Known to many for his work with the Paul Winter Consort on "Common Ground" and Missa Gaia/Earth Mass,” Scott's musical output runs from lyrical songs and instrumentals to choral compositions. He has collaborated and performed with top jazz, classical and folk artists. Pete Seeger said of Jim's guitar virtuosity "(Jim is) some kind of a magician."

His most recent project has been compiling “The Earth and Spirit Songbook,” an anthology of songs of earth and peace. From this widely varied background, Scott considers himself a contemporary folk artist in the sense that folk music represents people with a positive and hopeful spirit. "Folk music follows a long tradition of social commentary," Scott said. "It's the voice of the people. That's what I like to think I'm representing."

Jim holds a degree from Rochester’s prestigious Eastman School of Music. He's taught at numerous colleges, including Oberlin College in Ohio, and conducted workshops throughout the country. “My messages are of ecology and social conscience, but also of optimism," Scott said. "I believe in the power of song and self-expression for change."

For information about the concert, contact Julie Levy, 206-914-3904, or email www.music@northlakeuu.org.