Music to make a difference

Classical music lovers listened to local musicians perform at La Crescenta Presbyterian Church on Sunday all in the name of a worthy cause.

More than 100 guests attended the recital to help raise funds for construction materials needed for a housing project in Tijuana, Mexico.

The men's ministry collected the money for their fourth annual trip to Tijuana, said Brent Kuszyk, communications director.

"We do this because we are called to help," Kuszyk said. "They are our neighbors."

The ministry raised more than $3,000, Kuszyk said, adding that the cost of the materials is about $5,500.

But the church's mission and outreach committee will double the amount with a matching grant, he said.

"To be able to have a house with a foundation and locking doors and the bare minimums is what we can give to people," said member Jim Sedgwick.

Sedgwick participated in the building project last year, he said.

This year, the group will help build three homes for underprivileged families, he added.

On Sunday, visitors listened to not only classical music, but they also donated funds to the collection plate.

Tujunga resident Alicia Andrew came to listen to the performance with her father.

She was impressed with the musicians and their talent.

"They had really nice choices of music and it came together well," Andrew said.

Andrew also commended the men's ministry for stepping up for a good cause.

"It's one of the greatest things you can do for a family."

The musicians, which included a flutist, oboist, violist, cellist, pianists and percussionists, performed to the music of Marcello, Pershing, Ravel, Ginastera, Bach and Roussel.

"It's always fun to hear an assortment of instruments," said Shirley Wilson, of Arcadia. "I think it's a wonderful and a worthwhile thing to do."

The men's ministry will be going to Tijuana from July 13 to 15. The group will build three homes before returning.

"The experience is twofold," Sedgwick said. "I expect that we will change the lives of people, be exposed to others in another part of the world and know that we are making a difference in others' lives."

For more information about Mission Mexico, call (818) 249-6137.