Ben Folds will once again smash the piano on stage at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor next month at a benefit performance on the campus of the University of Michigan. Sponsored by the central student government organization, the event, part of the MUSIC Matters program started in 2001, brings nationally-known artists to the campus in performances to benefit the community. Proceeds from Ben’s show will go to set up a need-based scholarship endowment fund.
Last year’s performer, the hip-hop artist J. Cole, was well-received by students, and the proceeds went to the university’s C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Folds was chosen for his popularity with the students and his philanthropy, and the organization felt that this year, students would want to see someone from a different musical genre. “The members of MUSIC Matters felt strongly that this was an opportunity for current students to help ensure that the next generation of college student could (attain a degree)”, said MUSIC Matters president Philip Schermer.  “We wanted to continue to keep college affordable and have cost not be a reason not to attend.â€
Hillel, an organization of Jewish students, is a co-sponsor. The group feels that it’s important to increase their involvement with the arts on campus, and that bringing together the University community for the event is at the heart of its values.
Tickets go on sale Friday, March 15 at the Michigan Union ticket office. Links are on the tour dates page.
Followup: MUSIC Matters has announced a $50,000 scholarship will be available in 2014 from funds raised by the concert and at other events. The scholarship, which is entirely student-funded, is expected to involve a theme of social sustainability. (Updated 4 November 2013)
