GRCC student Ian Thompson’s generosity helped a St. Cecilia Music Center concert go on as scheduled. An article in the February 24 St. Cecilia newsletter shares the story:
From left, Ian Thompson, Amber Borrello and Christian McBride. (Photo courtesy of St. Cecilia Music Center.)
Volunteering during last week’s Christian McBride Trio concert Ian Thompson was simply hoping he would get a chance to meet the legendary bassist, maybe get an autograph …
Not in his wildest dreams did he think McBride would end up playing his bass during the concert!
It is minutes before The Christian McBride Trio is set to take the stage … and both basses obtained for the concert are not functioning! Backstage working on the instruments, Amber Borello from Guarneri House has a revelation.
Her bass playing friend, Ian, is volunteering for SCMC for the first time, and his instrument is at school nearby!
Quickly Ian is pulled away from pouring wine and asked to get his bass for the concert. It is now 12 minutes before the show is slated to start.
It is a mere negative 2º outside. Ian runs up Ransom Street hill to GRCC. With his bass on his shoulder, he runs back to SCMC, arriving at the stage door at 7:29pm!
Moments later he watched as the most recorded bassist in the world played his instrument before an enthusiastic crowd of more than 500 in Royce Auditorium.
All we can say is, “Thank You Ian!” This concert could not have happened without you!
And what a concert it was! Mlive media awarded The Christian McBride Trio 4 out-of 4 stars for an amazing performance!
The daily employee newsletter of Grand Rapids Community College 