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PBS Fundraisers Try to Hit the Right Note

© F. Colin Kingston

Because they are barred from showing commercials, fundraising is a necessary evil of public television. The good news is that this is the time that PBS brings out the best of the best. The bad news is that local PBS stations have to break into their programming every so often and literally begs viewers to call in with their financial support.

My favorite pledge drive programming is the music specials. Below is a listing of the musical specials that will be appearing on PBS in March. Check your local listings for the air times and dates in your location.

Editor's note: With the ever-increasing number of "reality" shows, and lack of serious news programs on the major networks, I find myself turning to PBS more than ever these days. I am a supporter of my local PBS station and urge you to do the same.

"Daniel O'Donnel & Friends" - Irish singing sensation Daniel O'Donnel is featured in this heart-warming concert taped at Waterfront Hall in Belfast, Northern Ireland. This concert contains an interesting blend of old-fashioned Irish ballads and pop songs written by such artists as Dolly Parton and Neil Diamond. It isn't a blend one would automatically think of, but O'Donnel pulls it off nicely. An orchestra and guest stars also back him up

"Bill Monroe: The Legend Lives On" - Among many others, this all-star tribute concert to Monroe features Ricky Skaggs, the late John Hartford, the Del McCoury Band and Charlie Daniels. Country music great Lorrie Morgan hosts.

"Carole King: A New Colour in the Tapestry" - With a 40-year career, four Grammy's and several number one songs, singer/songwriter Carole King has a wealth of material to share in this spirited concert. Taped in 1993 at the Bushnell Theatre in Hartford, Connecticut.

"American Soundtrack: Rhythm, Love and Soul" - Aretha Franklin co-hosts her first PBS fundraising special. Guest stars include Lou Rawls, Mary Wilson, Gloria Gaynor and the Temptatoins.

"The American Tenors" - Nathan Granner, Daniel Montenegro and Mauricio O'Reilly are three young tenors with a remarkable energy and stage presence. They perform songs in this special from the worlds of opera, Broadway and Americana.

"Sissel in Concert: All Good Things" - Norwegian superstar Sissel takes viewers on a musical journey that includes songs from the world of pop and film. She is joined on the show by a 54-piece orchestra, an all-female youth chorus and an assortment of musical guests.

"Lawrence Welk: God Bless America" - This special marks the 100th birthday of the late band leader and looks at our nation's history through his eyes and experiences. John Bahler conducts the Welk Champagne Music Makers which features 18 stars from the Welk musical family.

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