Play On 2022: Peter CottonTale, Julius Tucker, & Special Guests

Merit School of Music’s 4th annual Play On, a benefit concert hosted by the Merit Associate Board on November 8 at City Winery, was a resounding success!

The evening opened with a rousing performance by our Conservatory Honors Jazz Combo. Despite only rehearsing as an ensemble for a mere seven weeks, these advanced student musicians put on a professional-level show. They stunned the crowd with their jazz flow, musical chemistry, and improvised solos.

Play On continued with a tribute to the late, great Ramsey Lewis by Merit alum Julius Tucker, who performed “Watercolors” from the album Songs from the Heart: Ramsey Plays Ramsey. Julius’ performance captivated the audience, invoking Ramsey’s spirit and warming our hearts with striking melodies and soothing sounds from the piano.

The event culminated in a high-energy performance by alum Peter CottonTale and his fantastic choir. Full of gospel sound and R&B soul, Peter and his crew put on an amazing show that had people clapping, singing along, and dancing in the audience. The spirit of the evening moved us so much, demonstrating in such a crystal-clear way how much music education matters.

In addition to Julius and Peter, the event included surprise special guest appearances by other Merit programs alums and friends of Peter, Jack Red and Nico Segal.

Play On 2022 raised over $30,000 to support Merit students! Thank you to all who supported and attended the event.