New York, NY (July 11,  2011) – Music as a Natural Resource (a NYC-based non profit focused on alternative uses of music in learning, trauma relief and healthcare) announces a bi-monthly series of unique fund raising events. “Musicians, Up Close and Personal: meet, eat and learn with the greats” will debut Wednesday July 20th with guitar legend Pat Martino (Chick Corea, Sonny Stitt, Gene Ammons, John Handy, Bobby Hutcherson, Stanley Clark, Eric Kloss, Woody Herman). Soundtrack Recording Studios (Rolling Stones, Linkin Park, Coldplay) will serve as a backdrop for the evening. Attendance is limited to a handful of VIP, Music as a Natural Resource supporters and will include:  cocktails, dinner, and a master class presentation by Pat, a studio production presentation and tour hosted by Soundtrack co-Founder John Kiehl and a “VIP concert event” at Pat’s opening night at the Jazz Standard the following evening (July 21st).

In 1980, Martino underwent surgery as the result of a nearly fatal brain aneurysm. The surgery left him with amnesia and, without any memory of the guitar and his musical career. Through intensive study of his own historic recordings, and with the help of computer technology, Pat managed to reverse his memory loss, learned to play the guitar again and went on to earn recognition from National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Grammy nominations and becoming Downbeat Magazine’s 2004 Guitarist of the year,

“Pat will discuss his thoughts on improvisation, and give one on one coaching to participants in an intimate, relaxed environment.  We will also have cameos from some of New York’s top music industry professionals.” remarks Soundtrack’s John Kiehl. “It is a great way for music lovers to support Music as a Natural Resource and get to know one of the world’s great musicians.”

Registration is EXTREMELY LIMITED.  See www.MusicAsANaturalResource.org/Donate for information on how to support MANR or to register for this event.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011 6pm – Master Class with Pat Martino
Thursday, July 21, 2011 8pm – “VIP concert event” Pat Martino live at The Jazz Standard