Some of Mobile’s finest brass band musicians are coming together for a special benefit concert to support Charles Mason, the founder of Mobile’s Olympia Brass Band, who has been hospitalized at USA Medical Center since February 2011.
A Community Rallying Behind One of Its Own
Mason, a beloved figure in Mobile’s brass band community, founded the city’s Olympia Brass Band and performed with all three of the area’s prominent brass ensembles throughout his career. His extended hospitalization has brought significant medical expenses, prompting fellow musicians to organize a fundraiser on his behalf.
According to Bay City Brass Band leader Marcus Johnson, Mason has had both legs amputated during his hospital stay but remains in good spirits despite the difficult circumstances.
An Afternoon of Music and Barbecue
The benefit concert is scheduled for Saturday, June 4, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cajun Shrimp Shack, located at 3156 Airport Boulevard near Springdale Mall. The lineup features an impressive roster of local talent, including the Bay City Brass Band, Mobile’s Olympia Brass Band, the Excelsior Brass Band, Ray Charles (performer Charles McGlasker), Alvin King, and the Mario Mena Band.
Tickets are priced at $12 and include a barbecue plate, with additional donations welcomed at the door. Johnson said all proceeds will go directly toward helping cover Mason’s medical bills.
Advance tickets are available at the restaurant. For more information, attendees can call 251-458-9349 or 251-470-8116.