Lisa Hilton

Benefit for the Chicago Lighthouse Buddy Guy's, Chicago, IL
Friday Oct. 30, 2010

Lisa Hilton

Photos by Brad Walseth and John Broughton, video by John Broughton, Copyright 2010

The lovely and talented pianist and composer Lisa Hilton was in town last week to help the Chicago Lighthouse dedicate their new building wing. The Chicago Lighthouse is a 104-year-old, world renowned agency that serves the blind and visually impaired. Ms. Hilton is noted for her work in this area, and performed last year at a benefit concert at Andy's for the Chicago Lighthouse. On September 30, 2010, Lisa, along with local vocalist Nikki George and her trio, presented another compelling benefit concert at Buddy Guy's wonderful new Legends club on the corner of South Wabash and Balbo in Chicago.

A dedication ceremony was held the day before at the Chicago Lighthouse facility, with numerous political and business leaders in attendance. Speeches, a luncheon, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the new wing were included, while Ms. Hilton, the Chicago Lighthouse's own Vision Quest and exceptional Mississippi-based gospel singer Megan Tate entertained the crowd with music.

The benefit at Buddy Guy's, on the following night, was well attended and raised about $2,500 for Lighthouse programs.

The talented Nikki George, started things off on a high note with a clever set of "vision-related" standards, such as "Beginning to See the Light" and "Angel Eyes." Ms. George's relaxed delivery and warm tone was a treat on this set, which also featured local favorite pianist Tommy Muellner.

Ms. Hilton engaged the audience with several of her fine original compositions including the mysterious "Midnight in Manhattan," playful "Just for Fun," and oh-so-romantic "So This is Love." Combining classical and pop touches with straight ahead jazz, Hilton has found a unique style of her own that is quite alluring. Gorgeous melodies are abundant in her work, but pieces like the jangling, aggressive "Melt Down" show an appealing edginess as well.

An entertaining concert and one to benefit a truly worthy goal. To get involved or learn more about the Lighthouse, please call (312) 666-1331 or visit www.chicagolighthouse.org. To learn more about Lisa Hilton - visit www.lisahiltonmusic.com.