PITTSBURGH, PA—January 28, 2014— NOMMO Productions announces the Red Carpet screening of Roger Humphries Pass It On, a film documentary directed by Billy Jackson. Honorary Co-Chairmen Mayor-Elect Bill Peduto and Bill Strickland will head this black tie event. The fundraiser will benefit four Pittsburgh non-profits who educate musically gifted youths: The Afro-American Music Institute, The Roger L. Humphries Music Scholarship Fund, The Jazz Workshop of Homewood and The Lighthouse Arts, Inc. The fundraiser is scheduled for February 22, 2014 at the Manchester Craftmen’s Guild, 1815 Metropolitan Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.
Billy Jackson, the film director and producer, chose Roger Humphries as a subject, primarily because of Mr. Humphries’ altruistic outlook on developing and nurturing young talent. According to Mr. Jackson, “Roger is a musical icon, yet accessible and down to earth. His humble spirit and commitment to “Passing It On,” is inspiring and unique given his stature and years in the music business. I wanted to share Mr. Humphries’ worldview with others. Perhaps it will inspire us all to give back that which we have been given in some tangible manner. I hope that the film is viewed by many, is well received and that I have channeled Roger’s grace and humbleness in a way that is true to him.”
Roger Humphries is a Pittsburgh native who began performing as a jazz musician since the age of three and a half. As a musical prodigy, he began playing professionally at the tender age of 14 and has played with such greats as Stanley Turrentine, Horace Silvers and Ray Charles, among others.
Mr. Humphries’ discography began in 1963 with Stanley Turrentine and Shirley Scott; and includes the following year’s huge hit with Horace Silver, “Song for My Father.” Roger continues to record and recently released his latest CD “Keep the Faith.”
As a part of this historic evening, VIPs will enjoy cocktails, butlered hors d’oeuvres with a ”Jazz Jam Session” by CAPA Performing Arts students. Following the premiere is an exclusive Presentation of Award crafted by the acclaimed artist Thad Mosley, as well as a dessert and coffee reception. Ticket pricing for the VIP Cocktail Jazz Jam Session is $125. General admission ticket pricing is $50 with a limited number of young professional rate tickets offered at $30. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. for VIP, and 7:30 p.m. for general admission and young professionals.
“I am grateful and honored that someone is interested in documenting my life,” said Roger Humphries. “I am a musician who loves what he does and has stayed true to his gifts and talents. Although I have the option to live and work anywhere in the world, I chose to live and raise my family right here in Pittsburgh. I am blessed to make a living doing what I love and I equally feel a responsibility to uplift and nurture the children who are coming up in later generations. I have committed my time, my energy, my passion and my finances to ensuring that a musical tradition is passed on to young talented artists. I am humbled and thankful to Billy Jackson for this great honor.”
For event information call (412) 294-9892. Tickets are available online at www.rhpassiton.com and www.mcgjazz.org. Additional ticket locations are Stedeford’s Records, 417 E. Ohio Street, North Side; Centre of Attraction, 2019 Centre Avenue, Hill District; and Dorsey’s Records, 7614 Frankstown Avenue, Homewood.
ABOUT BILLY JACKSON AND NOMMO PRODUCTIONS
Billy Jackson, Producer and Director, is a national award-winning documentarian and principal owner of NOMMO Productions. NOMMO Productions is a closely-knit team of seasoned associates committed to producing excellent, broadcast quality media. NOMMO has produced documentary, dramatic and promotional films for a client base that included Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, New York Department of General Services, BET and Alcoa. Jackson taught film courses at Emerson College and Pittsburgh Filmmakers, as well as, served as consultant, cinematographer and/or producer for government, industry, independent production houses and television stations.
NOMMO has produced the award-winning films Enough is Enough: The Death of Jonny Gammage, Didn’t We Ramble On? and We are Universal. More information is available at www.NOMMOProductions.com.
