Testimonials
2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002Received: February 8th, 2013
congratulations! (As) one of the top 1% most viewed LinkedIn profiles for 2012!....I want to personally thank you for being part of our community. . We're excited to show you what's next.
With sincere thanks,
Deep Nishar - Senior Vice President, LinkedIn
Received: January 9th, 2013
I'm watching your videos as I write this and I'm very proud of...what your doing for Africa, India, and (for) overseas trips in the future. I pray that you will expand..your services there and bless them and yourself too...you deserve it...God bless
Mark J Belli
Jazz for Peace Africa/India Tour -- See videos of all three amazing events at: www.jazzforpeace.org/easy
Received: Dec. 31, 2012
I give my heartful Thanks to all in Jazz for Peace
G. Suresh Kumar - PASS - Tamilnadu, India
Received: Dec. 24, 2012
.....we are very glad that we had the chance to host Rick/Jazz for Peace in Kenya...... We are so excited, the community groups particularly the women are also very exited and we all are looking forward to the next steps...
Everlyne, SEETO, Kenya
Received: December 19, 2012
The Jazz for peace concert received series loud applauses and Rick endeared the heart of the audience who stood to their feet several times to a very great music.
At the time we were leaving, there two more callings for Rick to perform including an Ivorien refugee camp.
Charles Addoco, Youth with a Global Vision, Ghana, Africa
Received: November 12, 2012
Thank you for your work and we are hoping to continue working with Jazz for Peace in the future.
All the best,
David
David L. McCoy -Executive Director - GADC
Read the article about this event:
"Jazz for Peace...has earned its place as the most significant cultural event of our time" -- The New Ghanaian (West Africa)
Received: October 19, 2012
Las Vegas, NV -"Rick DellaRatta and Jazz for Peace.... now considered worldwide to be one of the most significant cultural events of our time!"
"It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the...Jazz for Peace...benefit...at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts. I commend the Nevada Youth Alliance for hosting this evenings gala....I am honored to congratulate and thank these exceptional individuals for their service."
Harry Reid - United States Senate House Majority Leader
"It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the Jazz for Peace benefit concert featuring jazz artist, Rick DellaRatta, who so generously and selflessly shares his extraordinary talent to benefit the world's finest organizations - in this case our communities own Nevada Youth Alliance.....I appreciate the opportunity to show my support for this exciting concert."
Dean Heller - United States Senator - Nevada
"I am proud to welcome recording artist Rick DellaRatta who works globally in support of many worthwhile causes and has taken up the support of one of Las Vegas well noted philanthropic Giants, Nevada Youth Alliance."
Ricki Y. Barlow - Las Vegas City Councilman
"Tonight it is our desire to not only extend honors but to share an entertaining and enlightening evening with you. To this and we have invited the world-class jazz musician and philanthropist Mr. Rick DellaRatta of Jazz For Peace."
"Rick's exceptional musical tours have benefited hundreds of deserving organizations around the world. NYA is truly grateful to have received his esteemed support for this event."
David Osman - President - Nevada Youth Alliance
Click here for Photos of the event!Received: October 2, 2012
Jazz for Peace benefit concert for STEPS for Kids Ann Arbor MI, Sep 30, 2012
Rick DellaRatta is a serious and melodic jazz composer, keyboardist, and singer who connected with our audience......audience members were ecstatic.
Some who had come to the concert to support STEPS for Kids left jazz enthusiasts..
The owner of the very cool venue.....was thrilled with Rick's performance, and is eager to arrange another Jazz For Peace concert....we gained legitimacy and esteem, both from having been chosen by Jazz for Peace as a recipient of this concert, and by the excellence of the concert.
What a win-win-win-win-win occasion!
Diane Macaulay
Steps for Kids - www.stepsforkids.org
Received: October 2, 2012
Dear Jazz for Peace,
I was warmly touched by Rick DellaRatta. I have met few like him.
Jazz has new meaning for me for sure, he was a gift to us.
GW
Black Crystal Cafe - Ann Arbor, MI
Received: August 30, 2012
Dear Jazz for Peace,
I like how your doing things, and may God bless your compassionate love for helping me and the connections world wide.
Michael Owino - Secretary General - Wendo Kikwetu Self Help Group
Received: August 30, 2012
Dear Mr. De Angelis,
I am writing you to let you know that these are the best individuals I have ever worked with and you are greatest boss I have ever had.
Sincerely,
Jacinta Lawson - Grant Assistant - Jazz for Peace Foundation
Received: May 20, 2012
The event yesterday was fantastic! Rick and the band were truly outstanding.
He played with the kids and it was lovely. Overall, a huge success! Thanks!
Michael - Voces y Manos
Berkeley, CA
Received: April 26, 2012
Dear Mr. Rick Della Ratta,
What an extraordinary program you have. It is so impressive how you and your organization have committed yourselves……
Gwendolyn A. Coleman -Volunteer CASA of D.C
Latest News: April 15, 2012 - At the very same time that “a wave of attacks” were taking place at the Afghanistan Capital, the very first concert ever uniting Afghans and Americans was being held in San Ramon, CA featuring the internationally acclaimed Rick DellaRatta and Jazz for Peace and Afghani Musical Artist Najim Nawabi. - Click HERE.
(Rick and Jazz for Peace were) "Absolute best.......consummate professional.......highlight of my night."
Arthur Melendez - US Liaison for Hope for Women and Children - www.hopeforwomenandchildren.org
Received: March 11th, 2012
This project in Africa is wonderful, and I send my love your way in support of this work. The 2nd video really got me…….right in my heart …..a warmest and sincerest of bravos go out to you, your colleagues at Jazz for Peace, and all that are supporting this most needed endeavor…. It's an incredible thing to consider- that out of 9/11, a promising program of love and support could be and flourish as it has for many years now.
With much admiration,
Stan Jeffs
Seattle, WA
Received: February 16th, 2012
Hi Rick,
AIDSfreeAFRICA can not wait to have you come to Cameroon for a Jazz for Peace concert. Very excited to see your progress…..From the Iguana Restaurant in New York City's Jazz for Peace concert supporting AIDSfreeAFRICA to Cameroon! You are on your way.
With heaps of love and peace,
Rolande
Received: January 7th, 2012
Dear Rick,
Your documentary project linked below is phenomenal and we wish you all the best in this endeavor.
Let us know how we can help. I'm copying this to our board and members. We're proud to be recipients of the Jazz For Peace grant, as well, and will always remember the wonderful concert you gave for us in Fort Lauderdale! http://wijsf.com/events/jazzforpeace.htm
HAPPY NEW YEAR and Thanks,
Joan Cartwright, Executive Director
Received: December 18th, 2011
Dear All,
It still feels like a dream come true....all the special person was there...
The performance was amazing. We enjoyed it very much! Cerdan was so happy as he felt the support, felt someone listening to his thoughts...we thank you for making time to be involved and supporting our efforts.
MOST OF ALL, THANKS FOR THE SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY!
THE SECOND EVENT,
I WILL NOT BE SO NERVOUS...
Best Regards,
Phira
Received: December 12th, 2011
Hello John and Deb,
I thoroughly enjoyed the Jazz for Peace concert. Rick was AWESOME. I didn't think I liked Jazz music until I heard him. He touched our hearts. The location was AWESOME. It was a "classy" atmosphere, naturally decorated this time of year with the Christmas theme...poinsettas everywhere. The people….really enjoyed themselves and indicated that they will go back and tell others for next year.
We are hoping for the opportunity to do this again, around the same time next year……
Thanks for a wonderful cultural experience.
Trellis
IAMBK, Inc. – Auburn, Alabama
Received: December 9th, 2011
One of the worlds most respected Charities calls the Jazz for Peace Empowerment Grant "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!"
Received: Monday, November 21, 2011
DEAR RICK,
THE ATTENDEES WERE BUBBLY WITH EXCITEMENT AND CAME TO ME TO TELL ME THAT THEY WILL "SPREAD THE WORD"!
YOU BRING SUNSHINE INTO OUR LIVES, AND BRING OUT THE BEST IN PEOPLE. WE FEEL REJUVENATED AND MORE HOPEFUL FOR OUR SCHOOL.
YOUR RENDITION OF 'CHOUCOUNE' BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES….THANK YOU FOR CARING.
INGRID & PETER - HAPPY HAITI FOUNDATION
LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA
Received: Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Rick,
Thank you for the enjoyable evening. Everyone loved your Melodic Rhythms. I was particularly impressed at how well you played with the other musicians. You are a cool guy and a very talented artist. Have a peaceful journey home and hopefully our efforts to raise the conscious awareness of the world will prevail.
Ethan and the sustainable living crew at Rain Fuel in Durango, CO
Received: Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Hallo Rick,
I congratulate you for the noble cause you do to many disadvantage people around the globe.
I believe some job no man can pay but only God. That is why God has created few among us like your nature to do what many cannot manage in simple ways but with unmeasurable benefits to the society.
I do really applaud you for your generosity and pro-society attitude and initiative to change the life of others……which I believe will enhance progression of future attaining of key fundamental projects for the Rendille to better their lives.
Thanks and God Bless
Ibrahim Ali Leruk – Nairobi, Kenya
Received: Thursday, November 3, 2011
Dear Sir Madam,
This is to express our utmost appreciation for the just concluded Jazz for peace grant concert performed in Nairobi by Rick Della Ratta for our organization You and I Kenya.
Because of this event our organization has gotten a lot of publicity in and outside Kenya and we believe this is going to open doors for funds to support our needy communities in the rural pastoral areas.
We also take this opportunity to thank Jazz for Peace and Rick Della Ratta for appointing our organization as "Empowerment Grant Ambassador" in Kenya. This appointment will enhance our effectiveness as established national NGOs. We are indeed very grateful for this.
As empowerment Grant Ambassador, we promise to promote the name and activities of Jazz for Peace in Kenya and beyond. We also undertake to offer our unequivocal advice on the best approaches that Jazz for Peace should adopt when partnering with NGOs from third world countries.
We also undertake to espouse the values that Jazz for Peace stands for as we pursue community sustainable development among the pastoral community in Kajiado, Narok, Laikipia and Samburu Counties.
We wish to convey our gratitude to Rick for taking the time to explain to us in details how Jazz for Peace operates in raising funds and publicity for organizations.
In our subsequent communication we will indicate the institutions and organizations we would like Jazz for Peace to approach to support You and I Kenya.
We look forward for a successful and lives changing partnership.
Yours truly,
Tore Nankoris
Program Coordinator and Secretary to the Board.
Received: Thursday, November 3, 2011
Hey Rick,
It was a great experience for me getting to meet you and actually play music together.
For me I am convinced that this is the beginning of a long term relationship based on mutual vision both for; the most versatile of art forms as well as love for mankind as a species.
Lets keep the fire burning.
Tetu Totuma
Maasai Musical Artist and opening act for Jazz for Peace Concert in Kenya.
Received: Sunday, October 16, 2011
Thank you so much for taking us on an amazing intimate journey into the world of Jazz.
Donnie & I thoroughly enjoyed your set. I look forward to hosting an evening with you & a few of our friends in the community!
It would be awesome to someday hear your story, maybe Lisa can help you write your memoirs one day..
:-)
Yvonne & Donnie Terry
Sacramento, CA
Received: Sunday, September 25, 2011
Dear John:
we thank you, Deb, and Rick DellaRatta sincerely from our hearts. God bless you so much. I'll recommend you to my friends in Britain who has an NGO and some of my friends in Ghana……
you are the best, the Board members and our VIP's really enjoyed the music, Rick DellaRatta has a lot of talents and he is a kind and generous man.
Thank you so much for the musical instrument. Dzifa Avalime was really excited about it. We hope to contact you again in the near future for assistance in fundraising.
Sincerely,
Suzy
Bi-Habawalk, Inc.
Received: Wednesday, September 23, 2011
Dear Rick,
I cant wait to have you preach Peace in Kenyan Soil on 26th October this year.
It is such an honour for us here at YOU and i Kenya……i am indebted to your team (the able John and Deb) for their constant communication and directions to us.
We at YOU and I Kenya have teamed up and work closely to make this historic event an envy of many. We have taken it with seriousness it deserves…….. On behalf of the YOU and I Kenya team, we assure you a next to none function.
thank you very much and we look forward to having a great future together to preach peace to the world through Jazz Music as well as improving lives of unfortunate in the society.
Ruth Kilusu
YOU and I Kenya
Received: Wednesday, September 7, 2011
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS AMAZING OPPORTUNITY!!!
I am thrilled to know about this great organization and to help organize a fabulous event in partnership with your organization.
In gratitude,
Helen Wyman
Events Manager, Linden Street Brewery
Oakland Events and Marketing Consultant
Executive Director of the Friends of the Oakland Fox
Received: Thursday, September 1, 2011
Click here to read about the first instrument to be donated.considering the hurricane…..I was worried at first, but……in the evening……. the room was full. I enjoyed Rick very much and I like him as a person as well.…..he was improvising with the little boys…..and everyone went wild! We'd like to have a very big event in LA either June 22nd or 23rd if possible. is the date available? and if so, can we start right away with the jump start for this date? Thanks so much for everything!
Much Love, Pep
Pepper Simone – Executive Director – Make a Better World Foundation -
http://www.makeabetterworldfoundation.com
Click here to read Ratzo’s article about this event for The American Music Center.Received: Monday, June 27, 2011
Everyone had a great time!
Rick was awesome…would love to (have him) come back to Idaho. We would have the concert in Sun Valley.
Laurie and Emma, Special Olympics
See pictures taken at the event!Received: Friday, June 24, 2011
Many thanks for all your effort ..there were certainly some valuable connections made .
Daniel E. Moody - Global Peace Partners, Inc.
See pictures taken at the event!Received: June 16, 2011
Hi Deb and John,
We were very pleased by the nice concert that Rick and his colleagues...gave... We hope there may be some opportunity again...now that we better understand the process and the great work your organization does.
Best wishes,
Nathan D. Wong
See pictures taken at the event!Received: June 12, 2011
LOVED IT! What a great night,
Thanks,
Kerry McCoy - President, FlagAndBanner.com, Little Rock, AR
See pictures taken at the event!Dear Rick,
It was a pleasure meeting you. I am looking forward to working with you to make next years Jazz Festival a huge success.
(The) Show and Rick were amazing!
Amber Jones - DreamlandBallroom.org, Little Rock, ARI've received so many positive remarks about the event on May 14. Each person regarded the music of a very high caliber...
Thank you for your contribution to this event. I'm sure it will be remembered for years to come.
All the best,Deb:
Many people at the concert were Snowbird skiers and some were employees from the Snowbird and Alta ski resorts . After the concert ended we all interacted with each other and shared our great enthusiasm for the music, the musicians, and especially Rick DellaRatta's capabilities as a world-class musician to lead and encourage his fellow 3 musicians to create such joyful music.
Some of those at the concert told me they had not been to a jazz concert in years and regretted they had missed Rick's concert last year, but, they said: "Let us know when he is coming back...we won't miss any of his future concerts." Others said to me: "You do such great work with the Samburu and now we get to hear the best jazz music...what a combination. He helps you and we have a pile of fun." Another told me: "I wanted to get up and dance to the music...it really got me going."
Other people told me: "We would be happy to help with the promotion of the next concert. Let us know and get us involved."
Wilma, TribalAdvancement.com, Salt Lake City, UtahHi Debra,
I hope all is well with you and the jazz for peace group i want to thank you all for the wonderful concert and a great performance and the exposure for the orphanage.
Thank you all, God bless youTo the Jazz For Peace Benefit Concert Participants
Thank you for participating this evening in the 800th Jazz For Peace Benefit Concert hosted by Halvorson's Upstreet Café in Burlington, benefiting The Root Center.
As Governor, I am proud to recognize an event that raises awareness for community development through the arts. An internationally renowned organization, Jazz For Peace promotes community living through the tones and vibrations of music. While you listen to Jazz pianist, vocalist and composer Rick DellaRatta tonight, remember that through our many differences living in this state, there is always more that unites us than divides us.
Sincerely,I would like to extend my best wishes for a successful event.
Robert RedfordDear Deb,
We were so amazed by the wonderful concert! Thank you for your hard work and efforts.
The musicianship, the passion, the quality of singing and the musicians were all wonderful!
Your work with graphics was great and helped sooooo much!
Thanks for everything!
Ruth - Refugee Immigration Ministry, Boston, MAThe concert was attended by people of all backgrounds - politicians, conservationists, musicians, tour operators, students, government officials and the landowners of EOC. Mr. Gideon Konchela, the former Minister for Immigration, opened the ceremony.
On our journey the next day to the upper Mara we witnessed activity that is seriously incompatible with the existing natural ecosystem.
According to Mr. Wilson Korrir, Assistant Director- Kenya Wildlife Service, the Jazz for Peace concept of empowerment was the best at this time when conservation of wildlife and the environment is in critical need. Mr. Korrir contributed many ideas on how the Jazz for Peace empowerment concept can be used to save our critical ecosystem in many parts of Kenya.
The ceremony uniting Rick with the Maasai people marked a new beginning, a new lease on the life of caring for wildlife in the area.
Paul Kilelu, Empaash Oloorienito Conservancy, Kenya, AfricaDear Jazz for Peace,
Thanks for a great show!
Rick was great ..thank you for your honesty and integrity. It means a lot to me. We rode the bumps and got it done.
Rina Saperstein, Executive Director, MPAHi Debbie,
Thanks for the great show and all the work you did. We were covered on two tv stations and got our mission out.
Tebbe Farrell, Development / Tutoring / Volunteers, Power Inspires Progress / Venice on Vine, Cincinnati, OHDear Rick,...my most sincere appreciation for selecting Nairobi as a venue for your concert...drawing both local and international attention to the Empaash Oloorientito Conservancy Trust in its efforts to conserve the Maasai Mara...I commend your organization for your committment to this noble cause.
Raila Odinga, Prime Minister, KenyaHello Rick,
I am so glad I watched u live in Nairobi. As a Maasai, i appreciate a lot your humble contribution to conseration..
Live long and God bless you,The concert on Saturday night here in Seattle was a great success! Everyone who attended raved about the music and had a great time. My thanks to you and John for helping me put it together.
Joyce McClure, Executive Director, Bridges to UnderstandingThank you Mr. Rick DellaRatta and the entire Jazz for Peace crew. You have given us the opportunity to enjoy your beautiful music and most importantly raise the fund we needed.
Because of you, because of this particular event, we are much known among non-Oromos especially Americans. Our name is heard by many and our cause travelled across the globe.
Biftu BariHi Deb,
We very much enjoyed meeting you and Rick and listening to some great music. We got some very good feedback for the show. Thanks so much for making the trip!
Monique, Centro Latino, Boston, MA See pictures taken at the event!Hi Deb!
The event was wonderful.
Warm Regards,
Pamela A. Mills, Insight Breast Cancer OrganizationHey Deb and John,
I just wanted to say thank you so so much from the bottom of my heart. I don't think any of this would be possible without you. So many people were happy and appreciative. As Rick probably told you most the Oromo people are immigrant so they are not much familiar with Jazz music but they like it. My mom was mesmerized by it.
Sena Jimjimo, Oromo Community Association of Chicago
Received: October. 15, 2010
I applaud the efforts of Innocence Matters to... bring about reform in our criminal justice system, and thank you for the significant support this concert represents.
Gerald F. Uelmen, Professor of Law and Former Dean, Santa Clara University School of Law / Former Executive Director, The California Commission on the Fair Administration of Justice
Received: October 12, 2010
Oh- I really can't thank you enough! We all had such a wonderful time. I can't tell you how many parents from the Mason-Rice School were enthusiastic about what I do with Boston Arts After School- and everyone was so impressed with Rick's performance and the whole Jazz for Peace event. It was great to raise money, but more importantly, I really feel some significant awareness was raised about BAASO among all these people in the community in which I work- who now (after such an awesome event) will no doubt be spreading the word to their colleagues, friends and family!
The other board members and I would be very excited to have you back (if you would be interested!) to do more events in the future. As Boston Arts After School is a growing organization, I can only see these events getting bigger and better each time! You certainly helped give us the "kick-start" we needed :-)
I already updated the website events page with some great pics. Please do check it out, and our homepage is a big THANK YOU to Jazz for Peace!
Thanks again for everything!
Looking forward to working with you in the future,
Christen Mailler, Founding Director, Boston Arts After School Organization
Received: October 6, 2010
Dear Jazz for Peace,
Ricks concert got rave reviews by all the Jazz "aficionados". Thank you so much for the benefit and the opportunity to work with you. I learned a lot, worked a lot, enjoyed a lot and next will be even better.
With gratitude,
Theresa Green, The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs,Salem, OR
Received Sept. 28, 2010
Hi Rick,
I'm so happy to hear your shows are plentiful. Thank you so much for the concert in July. Your music far surpassed our expectations!
Cheers,
Michelle, Samburu Tribal Advancement
Received: Sept. 27, 2010
Hi Rick:
...that is enormously kind of you to have given a concert for the Cheyenne.
My deep thanks again for your concert for the Samburu. I keep meeting people who came to the concert and they are all saying they want you to come back...let's hope we can make it happen next year.
Shall stay in touch...best wishes,
Wilma
See pictures taken at the event!Received: Sept. 25, 2010
Thank you so much for all (your) teachings, time and effort.
Sincerely,
Viviana, Mandala Transformation Foundation
Received: Thursday, September 16, 2010
"..steadfast and creative...Jazz For Peace unites the world of the arts with the arenas for justice. May other musical and artistic groups emulate your example and your consistency."
For Peace and Justice,
Ralph Nader
Received: September 15, 2010
Thanks again for everything...It was fun and Rick was GREAT!
YES without a doubt he has an amazing talent...
Lewis G. Maharam, M.D., FACSM aka Running Doc TM, Medical Director, Competitor Group's Rock 'N' Roll Marathon Series and Team In Training; Chairman, Board of Governors, International Marathon Medical Directors Association
Received: September 13, 2010
Hi Deb,
I want to say thank you for your help with the Jazz for Peace Concert, Rick and the band were great I have received a lot good feed back, everyone really enjoyed it.
Thanks again for everything.
Joy St. Peter, Director, The Joys of Living Assistance Dogs
Received: Aug 23, 2010
Hi Deb,
The concert was great yesterday!
We had...attendance...double what we had 2 years ago...everyone had a great time...
Thanks for everything...be in contact again in a couple of years.
Kathy, SelfAdvocacy.org
Received: August 16, 2010
Dear Mr. DellaRatta,
Your United Nations concert highlighted the importance of cooperation between the peoples of every nation. I am delighted that you have decided to bring your fine program to Fort Lauderdale Thanks to your great talent, hard work and dedication to the cause of peace, we have the distinction of hosting a truly memorable event.
You are an excellent role model for us all, the kind of person to whom everyone can point with respect and admiration.
Sincerely,
Alcee L. Hastings, Member of Congress
Received: August 2, 2010
Hi Deb,
The concert was great andthe enthusiasm kept mounting as the concert proceeded. It was a marvelous benefit for the Samburu tribes-people.
Thanks ,
Wilma, TribalAdvancement.com
Received: July 29, 2010
"The significant efforts between Rick DellaRatta and Jazz for Peace have resulted in enormous benefits to organizations, groups, and charities all over the world.
Ralph Becker, Mayor, Salt lake City, Utah
Received: May 10, 2010
Hi Debra,
You and John have been fantastic.
The concert was a hit and EVERYBODY there LOVED it!
Rick DellaRatta was AMAZING!
I got a call from some Indian nonprofit org. today asking me what I thought about my experience with Jazz for Peace and would I recommend it to them?
I told her, YES!
Peace,
Alan CK Sweet, Founder, "I AM" Workshop Tour
Received: April 2, 2010
Hi Rick,
I am taking this opportunity to thank you for believing so much in our mission that you came all the way to Maryland last March 12th to support Aumazo. I am equally grateful to you for putting our Aumazo on the map of deserving organizations. Based on the feedback, all my guests were delighted with the show and many are looking forward to another opportunity.
I believe that it was just the beginning. Thank you for choosing to be part of our journey. I look forward to another opportunity that you will present to Aumazo.
Again thank you for believing in my work.
Best regards,
Jacqueline T. Audige M.A, Founder & CEO, Aumazo, Inc.
Received: March 29, 2010
Hi Deb,
The music was great... I can really see Rick and the WSA doing something again in the future...hopefully this was just the beginning of a WSA/Jazz for Peace relationship.
Allison K. Lyon, Williams Syndrome Association
Received: March 26, 2010
Dear Rick,
I thoroughly enjoyed your music. Absolutely great.
It was very good of you to come to Washington to help Aumazo with the fundraiser.
With the help of my friend at the National Press Club, I will definitely be working on a fund-raiser for later this year.
Will be in touch.
Cheers,
William H. Dent Jr., Executive Director, Natural Partners. Washington, DC
Received: March 8, 2010
Hi Deb,
The event went really well! Everything was just great. Thanks so much for your help in putting this together.
Katie Puzauskas, Arizona Justice Project
February 8, 2010
The directors and volunteers of Global Community Engagement would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us at Jazz for Peace. It was a beautiful sunny Florida day, the music was fantastic and we feel everyone enjoyed themselves greatly.
Received: January 19, 2010
Hi Deb!
I'm sure you heard from Rick and Timothy that everything went very well. The concerts were terrific (of course!) and the art show looked wonderful.
Rick announced that he's doing a NY concert for Haiti. I got a lot of interest from the audiences. We'd love to host it if it works with everyone's schedule.
The Sickle Cell Network folks were terrific. They brought in quite a few people and I'm giving them an information table at a program I'm doing onHarlem in late February.
I'm sending LOTS of positive energy your way.
Best,
Kathleen M. O'Connor, New-York Historical Society, West New York, NY
Received: November 7, 2009
Original plans for a Jazz for Peace concert featuring Jazz Pianist and Vocalist Rick DellaRatta mushroomed into something much more : A way to connect personal, community and global issues.
Susan Marteney, Executive Director, Auburn Chapter, American Red Cross
Our goal in partnering with Jazz for Peace is to provide an opportunity for the community to experience world-class music, while raising much needed funds to make sure that the Red Cross can continue to provide emergency assistance to victims of disaster, train the community in life savings skills and collect blood.
Tom Filiak, Chairman of the Board of Directors, American Red Cross
Received: October 26, 2009
Dear Rick,
Congratulations. You've really made an incredible marriage between performing jazz artists, new audiences and a good "cause".
Joan Athey, Peaceworks Now Productions, Victoria BC, Canada
Received: October 16, 2009
A luta pela Paz no mundo tem várias formas, cores e sons. O símbolo da Paz é a pomba, a cor é o azul celestial das Nações Unidas, e o som é o que Rick DellaRatta vem oferecendo ao mundo em suas centenas de apresentações do Jazz for Peace. Os reflexos desse maravilhoso trabalho ecoam por toda parte, e reverbarão por décadas à frente. Toque mais uma vez Rick.
[The struggle for world peace has many shapes, colors and sounds. The symbol for peace is the dove, the color is the celestial blue of the United Nations, and the sound is the one that Rick DellaRatta has been offering to the world in his hundreds of presentations. The reflections of this wonderful effort have been echoing everywhere, and will last for decades ahead. Play it again Rick!]
Prof. Marcos Cintra, Labor Secretary for São Paulo, Brazil
Received: October 01, 2009
Thank you very much for contacting me...we had a very nice talk with Rick, and I was surprised to learn about all the possibilities you offer.
Thank you again, for all your efforts to help non-profits to achieve their goals!
all the best
Karen, Naregatsi.org
Received: September 28, 2009
Dear Debra,
What wonderful news you send us at this time. I commendRick, John & you on a job well done!
We love the attachment's you've sent us - it is always a great thing to see that there are good people in the world. Many thanks for all of your efforts in helping us for at this time we need it so desperately - our coffers are all but empty as well as our personal assets in our attempts to keep on doing what we believe in.
Many Thanks.
Howard L Johnson, Founder & Director, RockForYouth.com
Received: September 14, 2009
Hi Deb,
Many thanks for a great concert on September 11! ..those who attended are still calling me to talk about how much they enjoyed it. My board treasurer just called to say they wished they had brought their 2 year old ---as they were loving the music so much.
this was the first event of this nature we've ever done, so hope to put the learning to good use and create an annual event. Neighbors visited with me yesterday and talked about how interesting and great it was . such a great performance.
We sure hope Jazz for Peace had a positive experience as well. Next time Rick is in Montana, time for a visit to Yellowstone or Glacier Parks is a MUST!
Talk to you soon,
Linda Henry, Project Director, Community Housing Resource Board
Received: June 22, 2009 4:21 PM
Rick --
Thank you for the great show you put on Saturday evening! Everyone there had a great time and were very impressed with you and what you are doing ...
We are so glad you had a chance to see our neighborhoods, meet some of our youth and older folks we work with, and get to know us a little better. We would love to grow this event into something much bigger and look forward to working with you on that.
We hope you enjoyed your time in Cincinnati as much as we enjoyed having you here!
Thanks again!,
Marilyn and DeNeisha, Communities United For Action - Cincinnati, Ohio
Received: June 22, 2009
Deb,
I just wanted to say Thank You for all your help with our event last Saturday. Our folks had a great time -- everyone wanted to know when Rick will be back to do another show.
What is Rick's e-mail address?
Marilyn and I want to thank him for the great show.
Thanks again!
DeNeisha Calvert, Communities United For Action
Received: June 1, 2009
Hi Deborah and Rick,
I enjoyed working with Rick on the Jazz For Peace benefit at Nighttown this past Saturday. I appreciate that you chose our venue for the show.The show went off fine, and I appreciate how hard Rick is working and admire his commitment to supporting social causes.
I applaud both of you for what you are doing. Keep up the good work!
Please let me know if Rick is traveling out this way again.
all the best,
Jim, Jim Wadsworth Productions (JWP), Cleveland, Ohio
Received: June 1, 2009
Dear Rick and Debra, It was a pleasure to work with you all. I hope you will come back soon to play, and also tell the story about Africa.
Thanks,
Roy King - Cleveland, Ohio
Received: May 27, 2009
Hi Deb,
The shows were great. (and) the people who were there had a super time. All the music was great, and JFP did a jam session with the local band, HolyJah Doves.
The groups decided to jam impromptu, and everyone loved it!...it showed the cultures coming together, being harmonious, and uniting! Which everyone enjoyed.
The 2nd night, for the VIP dinner, the room was booked solid. The hotel had to set up extra tables as people waited...so that was again really great!
Thx,
Mark, Ministry of Sports - Kigali, Rwanda
Received: May 14, 2009
Rick,
Thank you for performing in Columbus on behalf of Columbus Collegiate Academy!
We enjoyed your beautiful music and think Jazz for Peace is doing great things. We are honored to have been part of it.
Jackie Messinger, Chair / Andrew Boy, Founder, Columbus Collegiate Academy
Received: April 27, 2009
Hi Deb,
The event went really well. Rick and the rest of the band were awesome... (and) generated quite a buzz among the school choice movement here in Ohio.
Received: March 28th, 2009
Dear Rick:
I loved your music last night beyond words.
Thank you for that performance.
I was trying to capture a voicing or two but it was too difficult to concentrate on the technique while being captured by the beautiful music.
Ken, FloridaBackline.com
Received: March 25th, 2009
Hello Tim and Debbie and Rick!!
I'd like to say a big heartfelt thank you for the opportunity to participate in the Jazz for Peace benefit concert event this past Sunday!!! It was truly an honor!! I really enjoyed the music, the other artists, and the energy of art and jazz supporters swirling around!!! Bravo on your mission, efforts and collaborative spirit in bringing people together to promote awareness for jazz and its connections to other arts and beauty of life!!
..I look forward to an ongoing partnership with you and Jazz for Peace!!! I will continue to pass along the JFP website and mission to build awareness.
Best and warmest wishes!
Received: Dec. 15, 2008
Greetings Deb,
I would like to take this moment to thank you Deb for your support in assisting us raise funds through a concert with Rick last Friday. It was a very beautiful event and Rick was excellent.
On behalf of our organization Deb, I want to thank you most sincerely for taking the time to work with us and as we told Rick, we have become life partners with the Jazz for peace organization. We personally let him know how dear you have been to us and asked him to pass our sincere gratitude to you.
Thanks Deb, and talk soon,
Received: October 28, 2008
Dear Jazz for Peace,
I saw Rick's performance in Providence this past Friday and my wife and I really enjoyed the show.
In talking with Communities for People (the beneficiary) I had told them that we would consider partnering with them next year . This is how much I believe in the work of CFP - and Jazz for Peace.
That is one thing I wanted to mention.
The query regards the sale of CDs. Do you have any signed copies, particularly the "Jazz for Peace" and "Christmas" CDs. The rendition of Little Drummer Boy was solid and I loved the Cheeks song.
Keep up the great work! I hope to hear from you soon.
James R. Harris Jr, Ph.D., RICORP
Received: October 27, 2008
Hi Deb,
Just wanted to say thanks again for your help in what was a really lovely event. Everyone was inspired and moved, and loved the music. You all are doing such a great thing with Jazz for Peace.
I also wanted to send a very special thank you to Rick .
Rick - Thank you for the very great concert in Boulder for RESULTS. A as a messenger of wonder and an architect of peace ..thank you for all that you give to the world.
Hope you all are well and look forward to connecting in the future.
Love,
Gwen Garcelon, Grassroots Fundraising Manager, RESULTS, Carbondale, CO
Received: August 19, 2008
Hi Deb,
Our audience was high quality and included a few councilmen .people loved Rick's music and wondered when he was coming back thanks to JFP for helping the organization create greater awareness.
Leroy Greene, Habitat for Humanity
Received August 19, 2008
Voicemail testimonial from 8/16/08 in Ogden, Utah
Benefit Concert for Habitat for Humanity
Received: July 29, 2008
We did have a great time. It was so helpful to have actually done the event. I get it now and we are anxious to do another event there is some talk of making this an annual event, perhaps in late spring.
Thanks for all of your help and it was fun to meet Rick!
I'll be in touch soon to discuss a repeat.
Anne-Marie Hendrickson, Director of Marketing, Compatible Technology International
Received: July 29, 2008
Hi Deb,
I had a great time working with you and meeting you.
Thank you for all your help! We will definitely do it again!
Toni, Connextions, Inc
Received: July 26, 2008
I want to congratulate Rick and Jazz for Peace on everything they have accomplished to this point, and all the good they are sure to bring about as they continue this concert series and its mission of challenging humanity to realize that the forces that unite us are far stronger than the forces that divide us.
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
Received: July, 16, 2008
Dear Deb, Rick and all,
It was a pleasure working with you.
Many Regards,
Jim Remsen, Darfur Alert Coalition, Philadelphia, PA
Received: May 16, 2008
Dear Debra, Rick and all who were involved,
We all thank you for the wonderful job you did. Debra all your help was so greatly appreciated, it definitely was a pleasure meeting all of you.
Thanks again and God bless all the great work you do!
In Love and Light
Kathleen, Wild for Life, Inc.
Received: May 9, 2008
Deb,
Yes...we were quite happy with the benefit concert... we would like to talk...about next year and another concert.
Mary Beth Bryman, Wild for Life, Inc.
Received: April 5, 2008
[...] Jazz for Peace remains strong, supporting many worthy non-profit organizations [...]
Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State
Received: February 11, 2008
Deb,
Everyone was pleased with the event!
We want to establish a date for next year about the same time...we are thinking February 7, 2009. Please advise if that date is available.
Michael R. Estep
Developing Potential, Inc.
Kansas City, MO
Received: November 20, 2007
Hi Deb,
Thank you for a great Jazz concert!
We received many positive comments about the Jazz music .and we hope to do this again next year.
Thank you for all your hard work and talent in making our fundraiser a success!
Sincerely,
Alexis Taylor Litos, Executive Director
The Barnaba Institute
Received: 11/15/2007
Rick and Deb,
I can't thank you both enough for all your work and making Jazz for Civil Liberties a success. The music was amazing and working out the details with Deb was a joy. Your hard work benefited us financially as well as with publicity. Your organization is outstanding and a sparkling example of activism through music.
Thanks!
Andy
The ACLU of Arizona
Received: October 23, 2007
Dear Debra and team,
this year being the 10th year anniversary of Rick DellaRatta's award winning double CD 'Live In Brazil and The Blue Note' as well as the 5th year anniversary of his famous concert at the United Nations ..It is really rewarding knowing that celebrities like Rick DellaRatta are taking (an) active role in worthwhile causes and in mobilizing ordinary people in support of important causes.
Together, we can make a difference in our world and in our less privileged lives.
Prof. Benedito Guarilia Filho
Congresso Obebedouro
Received: October 11, 2007
Deb and Rick,
Everyone loved the evening, the venue the food, and most of all the music.
They are much more motivated for next time, as are my regional director and the director from MA. Next year I hope to have corporate support and I think I can count on more help from those who attended .we . anticipate doubling our numbers ..
Please extend our appreciation to Rick and to the two guys who sat in - it was so enjoyable to watch them follow Rick's lead.
Thanks again,
Nanette
Communities For People, Inc.
Providence, RI
Received: October 10, 2007
Dear Deb:
My friends, the Rubins, gave me a report on the event. They enjoyed it thoroughly ., and I can't tell you how honored I am by the award of the Jazz for Peace prize, which now stands in a special place in my study. My wife and I are listening to the CD, which is quite wonderful.
Thank you for everything, and good luck to Jazz for Peace and its work.
Howard Zinn
Award winning Historian, Playwright and Author of A People's History of the United States
Received: October 9, 2007
Hello Debra,
Thanks for such a nice event last Sunday. It was a unique experience for many and with Rick's help we'll hopefully make it even bigger next year.
Thank you and I look forward to working with you on our next fundraiser.
Received: October 4, 2007
Hi Rick,
Your video clips on U Tube are quite impressive. You're doing fantastic work. I will be in touch with you soon about how to recognize you as an Ambassador For Peace.
Thanks,
Alan
The Paige Aimi World Peace Foundation
Received: September 20, 2007
With the presence of over 5,000 people, we have had a wonderful event and plans have already started for next year's Brazil Day.
A special day like that, in the park, would not have been possible if it was not for the help, assistance and support of people like you!
Again, my most sincere thanks for your participation and contagious enthusiasm!
Dirci Borelli Marquart
Frederick Sister Cities Association
Brazil Division
Received: September 19, 2007
Hi Deb,
The concert did go very well. Thank you for all your help . Everyone had such a nice time. We would definitely like to have another even more successful concert next year!
Best,
Erica - Erica Hastings, MS
Boston Center for Refugee Health and Human Rights
Received: September 17, 2007
Hello Debra,
We were very happy with Rick and the Jazz for Peace Big Band Performance. We have had very good feedback from many people and some inquiries about Jazz for Peace. Of course,I will share the information...We look forward to future collaboration with you, Rick and Jazz for Peace.
Sincerely,
Eleanor Larrier
BCHN Bronx
New York
Received: July 18, 2007
Dear Debra
Just want to tell you that all went fine...and we had a superior jazz event in PH Caffe.
Rick was super and the boys..were all gifted musicians - Thanks for all your efforts.
Joergen Kjaer
President
BrugerForeningen.dk
Copenhagen, Denmark
Received: June 18, 2007
The concert on Saturday was absolutely awesome!
...overall it was a great turnout!...Everyone loved Rick and can't wait to hear him again!
Thanks again
Janice G. Pettigrew
Fresh Start for Women, Inc.
Atlanta, GA
Received: May 5th, 2007
Rick,
Thank you for the work you do to increase music recognition as well as help non-profits such as ourselves.
Tracy and Bret, Co-Directors
Thank you for bringing awareness to our cause and giving a voice to the birds!
Michele
Thank you so much for helping the birds! It means so much to us...
Kris
Pampered Parrots Avian Rescue
Spokane, WA
Received: May 3, 2007
Deb,
Once again thank you, thank you, thank you, and more of the same to Rick for a great concert fundraiser!
Francene Brown
PHMC
Philadelphia, PA
Received: May 1, 2007
Dear Deb,
Rick & the band were terrific Saturday night, and the event was very enjoyable for everyone.
We had some terrific food and drinks, and the silent auction was fairly successful as well.
Attached is .list of attendees (including) a Palestinian minister visiting from Bethlehem
Thank you,
Anne
Jump Start International
Atlanta, GA
Received: April 3, 2007
Hi Deb,
We too enjoyed the event. Rick is a real professional, as well as a tremendous artist! We would love to schedule another event here at the "Vibe"...
I look forward to hearing from you,
Nathan
Positive Vibration Wine/Jazz Bar
Ann Arbor, MI
Received: April 02, 2007 11:36 AM
Hi, Rick!
Again... it was great to see and hear you in Schenectady. Your talent and passion for simultaneously making great music and doing real good in the world are truly inspiring to me.
You inspired my kids, too. Jared said he really liked your keyboard playing. This morninghe was improvising on the piano ... and I heard many big band chords followed by lively riffs in the treble. Something new for him!
And this is extra-amazing to me: I bought Samahria beginning piano books months ago, but she has not been interested in them or piano lessons. After your concert, I asked her if she wanted her first piano lesson, a question I ask her every couple weeks. And this time she said "yes!" And she was great! She has really steady rhythm and a great touch! I can't help wondering if hearing great keyboard music all day long yesterday somehow nudged her toward the piano.
Peace, love, and all good things,
Laura Bulatao
Received: March 19, 2007
Dear Rick, Deborah, and Jazz For Peace;
I just wanted to thank you for a wonderful concert on Saturday!!! We all had a fantastic time! We definitely want to do this again next year...
Thanks again!
Kevin Berg
The Access Life Program
Received: February 20, 2007
Before Rick DellaRatta and Jazz For Peace I did not care for Jazz! Definitely not my thing! After hearing them in concert, I have decided to give Jazz a chance. Rick's music (lyrics) along with the Jazz for Peace band was soothing and romantic!
Amanda Griffin
Administrative Assistant
First Home Alliance, Inc.
Received: January 17, 2007
I wanted to contact you and let you know that you are doing a wonderful thing. I truly respect and appreciate all the work you have done and continue to do, for the community at large.
I'm in the Army and when I get out I will be available to volunteer some of my time to help you expand your vision.
Mario D. Murray
United States Army
Received: January 10, 2007
I love your music. Not only do I love your music, I like the UN work you've done & the Jazz for Peace name & mission.
Sylvia Lowe
ChineseCulturalGarden.org
December 08, 2006
Deb,
The night was fantastic--the band was great. Rick was really nice and accommodating requests for songs, people going up for autographs ...
Thought you'd want to know.
Thanks,
Joy
North West Family Life
Received: November 7, 2006
Hi Deb,
The evening was great...The response was great...and there's already interest in doing more!
...I'd love to strategize ways to bring in new audiences...brainstorming for next time.
Thanks again for this opportunity.
Best,
Sasha
Corita Art Center
Received: 11/07/2006
Dear Deb,
Thank you...I appreciate you and your colleagues for your incredible work!...and I am always happy to talk about Jazz for Peace when people ask about the events...
Wujing Harrison - The Zigen Fund
Received: November 6th, 2006
Hello Deb,
I wanted to thank you and everyone at JfP for bringing this concert to CDD. We had a wonderful time. I very much enjoyed meeting Rick and his band and was very impressed with his music. I am a major jazz fan and so this was a treat...Please let Rick know how much we all enjoyed the experience. His work with non-profits is inspiring.
Thanks,
Kathleen Patton
CDD
Received: November 1, 2006
Hi Deb,
Thank you for everything! Rick & the band were great! Everyone who attended had a fabulous time. ...People loved Rick & Jazz For Peace.
Thank you again,
Tabitha
EscapeFRC.org
Received: September 22, 2006
Dear Ms. Cerritelli:
This is to acknowledge with many thanks the warm hospitality accorded me during my last visit/meeting with you and the founder of Jazz for Peace, the most respected and "honorable Man of God" Mr. Rick DellaRatta. A person who cares for the suffering for others is a man of God and Mr. DellaRatta deserves that honor. It is very rare to find such a humble person like Mr. DellaRatta who dedicates his life to promoting peace and understanding and most importantly to raise awareness and support for the poor/suffering masses, especially in the third world countries, though his Jazz for Peace Charity Concerts. It is my prayer that God in his infinite Mercy will continue to grant Mr. DellaRatta the strength and wisdom to continue with his crusade and good work.
Yours Truly,
Emmanual M.I. Omokha, Sr.
The American Pan-American Relief Agencies, Inc.
New York, NY
Sent Monday, September 18, 2006 2:31 PM
.Once again, thanks for your good work and Rick's (the whole trio's) wonderful playing.
Rick DellaRatta is so accomplished. It must be a pleasure to work with him. We appreciate all your help.
Best wishes,
Paul Kunkel
SAFE
Received: September 17, 2006
Deb:
Please extend our sincerest gratitude and appreciation to the rest of Jazz for Peace and Rick for putting on a wonderful concert for SAFE on September 14. It was very special, and everyone had a great time.
The reporter from America Oggi arrived ..She would like to speak to Rick.
hope we stay in touch, and have a great rest of the season.
Cindy
SAFE
Received: 9/15/06
Hi Debra,
I really enjoyed the concert last night, and was impressed by Rick DellaRatta's spirit and activism as well as his talent.
Renee Greene
Continuum Health Partners
Received: August 17, 2006
Dear Friends:
On behalf of the residents of New York City, I commend Rick DellaRatta and Jazz for Peace for organizing this wonderful event. Since its inception in 2002, the Jazz for Peace concert series has raised funds for more than 250 non-profit organizations...
Sincerely,
Michael R. Bloomberg
Mayor, NY City
Received: August 15, 2006
Hi Rick,
Thanks so much for all you have done in creating (the concert) the other night - it was very special.
I think you are doing a really good thing in doing Jazz for Peace benefit concerts with your talent.
Best Regards,
Minda Cowen
PS: "Say You'll Be Mine" is my favorite.
Received: June 23, 2006 1:06 PM
Hi Debra, Sue, & John;
I want to thank you for all your help, guidance and all your assistance with the Jazz for Peace Concert at Bellevue...Thank you for being so accommodating with your time and being there to answer all our questions and all the support...etc...etc.
Thank Rick for me, it was a pleasure meeting him. Rick and his supporting musicians had knocked themselves out performing this marvelous Concert for us. Rick, you are one of the rare pianists who makes the piano talk to you and for you. We feel it out in the audience. Your concert had moved us all. Thank you very much!!...THANKS TO YOU ALL !!
Yours truly,
Viola Ong
Issaquah Valley Senior Center
Bellevue, WA
Received: May 18, 2006
Dear Rick,
I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of the Uganda Rural Fund team for the wonderful concert of May 5th to benefit our programs in Uganda. We deeply appreciate and commend the great work you are doing in promoting peace and social justice through music.
People got to know about us. There were also some people who read the article in the local paper and sent in some donations!
We are considering organizing another benefit for the fall...We are thinking of finding a place in Minneapolis to hold the event. Will your schedule be open for November or early December?
Peace,
Br. John Mary Lugemwa, OSB
Director, Africa AIDS Service-Learning Program
College
of St. Benedict/St. John's University
Executive Officer
Uganda
Rural Fund USA, Inc.
Sent: Saturday, May 13, 2006 8:31 PM
Everyone here really likes Rick and his performance!
We (Caribbean Global Missions' team) all see Rick to be a very simple man with passion to help people in the best way he could.
Dennis Keshinro - Program Coordinator
CGM +Belka Enrichment Center
Sent: May 12, 2006
Dear Rick and the entire band,
Please take this as a personal and heartfelt thanks for your kind and quick response and participation with World Tai Chi and Qigong Day on April 29th. You folks are wonderful! We had upwards hundreds of people came through and enjoy your artful skills. I have attached the write-up and a collage of photos...sorry, can't send too many pictures. The thanks is expressed in the write-up and as you see, it turned out highly successful!
I look forward to our next time that we shall be together in educating people to our wonderful art and science of life-Qi skills!
In Loving Qi and Regards,
Dr. Chow - Effie
East West Qi
Sent: March 23, 2006
Hi Deb,
We had a successful event last night. Everyone enjoyed Rick and the band . They all enjoyed the evening immensely . The room was full.
Give Rick my best regards. I enjoyed discussing a variety of issues with this talented and eclectic humanitarian.
Regards,
Gary Shapiro, Ph.D.
Project Director/Chairman
Orang Utan Republik Education Initiative
Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2006
I am delighted. We made some much needed money had fun . And we will be doing more and sweller in coming months!
Of course we have many thanks to give to Deb and Rick at Jazz for Peace, and the fine music and spirit that made the show happen for Pawprints, and the Catalina Bar and Grill ..
All best to everyone, and heartfelt thanks to all who joined us in support, and fun.
Ina Hillebrandt
Founder and Director
Pawprints
Received: January 6, 2006
Dear Deb,
Thanks again to you, Rick, and the band for making our Jazz for Peace concert such a fantastic evening ..
Kind Regards,
Nicky Tynan
Water Aide
Sent: December 13, 2005 9:23 PM
I think your music is awesome. I get mesmerized listening to it.I look at jazz in a different light now. It isa coming together type of music eliminating barriers/boundaries.
Diana Morton
Sent: November 17, 2005
Dear Rick,
I just wanted to tell you again how much we enjoyed your music in Norwalk last week.I am still hearing the music in my head and loving every second of it. I can't believe what a thrill it was to see you. You are an amazing talent, and I am sure you have heard it many many times, but you really have such a gift. What an amazing bonus that on top of it all, you are fostering these very worthy charities.
I will be sure to check out your schedule and look out for other dates that I can come and enjoy your music again! Maybe I can bring another one of my children in so that they can all have their first live Jazz experience!
Lisa Breeland
Received: November 8, 2005
Hi Debra,
Rick and the band were awesome. Everyone had a great time and loved his music.He was a big hit.
Thanks!
Debbie McGarry
Bethany House Services
Cincinnati, OH
Received: October 17, 2005
On behalf of the children and staff of Yemin Orde Youth Village, I want to thank you for your recent generous donation of ($$$$$$$) to Friends of Yemin Orde form the ":Jazz for Peace concert held on June 15, 2005. Your gif will be used to support the programs and activities of Yemin Orde Youth Village in Isreal.
As the children finish their first month of classes, they can be found studying and relaxing around the Village with ...
Sincerely
Susan E. Pollack
Executive Director
Friends of Yemin Orde
Received: September 1, 2005
...Thank you for a lovely evening of Jazz and making a difference in our mission. We hope to have another opportunity to work with you.
Sincerely,
Karen J. Miller
Founder & President
Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition (HBCAC)
Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2005 12:06 AM
Thank you for...Madrid Music Festival's first Jazz for Peace (Festival)...We all were honored to have such a great talent as Rick playing in our park and look forward to promoting an evenmore successful event next year.
Sincerely,
Mark Bremer
Madrid Music Festivals
Madrid, New Mexico
Received: July 11, 2005
Hi Deb,
Thanks again so much for coming to Las Cruces... great performance by Rick and the others. Please pass my best along to Rick.
Andy Aroybal
Piro/Manso/Tiwa Indian Tribe, Pueblo of San Juan de Guadalupe
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Received: June 17, 2005
...This (concert) was a great experience for us. You and Deb are wonderful individuals to work with. the...supporters who attended, enjoyed you immensely. Your music and voice are electric.
We look forward to working with you again. Rick again, thank you for all of your support and guidance.
Anisa Kline,MPA
President
illuminated Access, Inc.
Received: May 9, 2005
Dear Rick and Debra,
On Behalf of the Cardinal Bevilaqua Community Center and Visitation BVM Parish we would like to extend our sincere thanks for your great performance.
We are surprised, thankful and blessed to have such and overwhelming response and an outstanding attendance, and we owe so much of the enthusiasm surrounding this effort to our partnership with you.
Estella Reyes-Bugg
Center Administrator
Cardinal Bevilaqua Community Center
Father Hugh J. Shields
Pastor
Visitation BVM Parish
Received: May 4, 2005
Just wanted to send a quick thank you to you, Rick, and the rest of Jazz for Peace!... it was indeed a great and enjoyable concert!
Adam Swart
Assistant Director
Educate the Children
Ithaca, NY
Received: May 2, 2005
Thank you so much for putting this on for us. We really appreciate it. A lot came out of the event for us. We have increased our support simply by way of your wonderful show!
Thank you and looking forward to meeting you again.
Kay Brady
Animal Guardians
Dallas, Texas
Received: May 1, 2005
Rick DellaRatta - Jazz for Peace:
"Mil gracias"!!! You are definitely an INSTRUMENT OF PEACE!
"Joshua's Song" and "Felicidade" - were two of my favoriteS.
Thank you so much for what you do for the world. Heaven knows we need jazz for PEACE.
Mil gracias,
Jackeline Maldonado
Spanish Choir Director
Visitation BVM Parish
Philadelphia, PA
April 8, 2005
Thank you for such an amazing concert last night. People have been singing your praises this entire morning!
Thanks again,
Jacqueline Finn, MPH
Program Development
Cabrini Hospice
April 2, 2005
Dear Rick,
We were so delighted with the music and your presence - it was a great event.
Thanks so much for all you do in the world.
I've discussed with Maria the possibility of you doing a concert in Moscow.
She is excited to have you come...as the kids would be so thrilled to be in your music and watch and grow with it.
Let me know what you think.
Warm Regards,
Jan Adams
Maria's Children International
Shakopee, Minnesota
"The music was great!"
Ryan Case
Director
Water Stewards Network
Sent:January 31, 2005
Dear Mr. DellaRatta,
I am excited about the concert you are offering to our organization,because (1) of the benefits to us, (2) of the wonderful musical opportunity we can all enjoy and (3) of the ability to do something more for peace in a troubled world. Those of us involved with School Supplies for Afghanistan want to see peace in the world, probably more than anything because it's related to every other problem that exists. What a wonderful way to promote peace - through a musical program! Thank you for giving us this opportunity to enjoy and from which to benefit.
I look forward to meeting you and attending the concert. I wishour jazz musician son, who is now back in school in Ithaca, could fly down to enjoy it too, but I don't think that his schedule will allow it.
Jan Holloway
Secretary
School Supplies for Afghanistan, Inc.
Received: February 1, 2005
Dear Mr Rick DellaRatta
The founder of Jazz for Peace,
Thank you so much for providing a wonderful opportunity for our partner Organization School Supplies for Afghanistan (SSA) to promote education of Afghan Children. SSA and HASCO together providing educational opportunity for Afghan Children.
Mahatma Gandhi Indian great philosophy of non-violent action long years ago said: (If we are to teach real Peace in this world, and carry on a real war against war, we shall have to begin with the children)
Yes children are our future any investments on children are investment on our future, we believe supporting Afghanistan children mean supporting peace and stability in the world, as you knew we all paid very high price for forgetting Afghanistan and leaving that country to the hands of Al-Qiada / Taliban extremists group and you as a resident of New York City may saw the September 11 tragedy live by your own ayes.
We believe that peace is possible in this world only with our unity and strong commitment, fortunately today not only ordinary people but also prominent figures and personalities from all corner of life from art to sport and music actively supporting world peace movement,
Dear Mr DellaRatta The activities of Jazz for Peace during last two years once again show your strong commitment to the peace and we appreciate itgreatly your commitment and dedicated efforts to promote peace in the world.
Once again thank you for your commitment to provide jazz benefit concerts for School Supplies for Afghanistan.
With best regards
H.Khaled
Director
Help Afghan School Children Org (HASCO)
January 2005
Rick,
Don't know if you'll remember, but my husband and I were the couple who sat in front of the saxes on that snowy night at the Zeitgeist. We loved the music. We felt we were having a private audience with you and your band, all of whom were superb. We particularly enjoyed your original compositions, and the different take on If I Only Had a Brain. We would have stayed afterward to talk with you, but we needed to walk home in that blizzard.
Thanks for a wonderful night of jazz. We'll be looking for your next gig in Cambridge. Hopefully, the weather will be better.
Best,
Martha Osler
Director of Volunteer Recruitment
Sent: December 14, 2004
"Most interested to hear about what you are doing...And this aspect of life and culture particularly... I greatly admire those who contribute to it..."
Noam Chomsky
November 30, 2004
Cindy and I would like to commend the staff and volunteers for all of their hard work and devotion on behalf of such an outstanding cause.
John McCain
Senator
August 17, 2004
Dear Rick and everyone at Jazz for Peace,
I respect you for your generosity and humanitarian efforts in what you are doing with Jazz for Peace!
Lisa Urgo
Founder and President
Dreams Can Be Foundation
July 28, 2004
Hello,
Writing to let you know how very much I enjoyed the Jazz for Peace concert for GREY2KUSA in Cambridge recently. There is so much talent there!
Sincerely,
Diana Cartier
Newton, MA
July 26, 2004
Hello Rick,
I hope this e-mail finds you in good health. We wanted to congratulate you on behalf of September's Mission for all your hard work and dedication to Jazz music. You are a wonderful person and a great jazz singer. Congratulations!
Sincerely,
September's Mission Staff
3/06/2004
Hi Rick and Deb and all;
Thanks very much for the concert last Saturday. I worked hard to try to get a crowd there and though we had an intimate group we nonetheless thoroughly enjoyed the show. The music was every bit as outstanding as your web site says and Rick's voice thoroughly mesmerized everyone. Thanks very much for all you do for all of the agencies you perform the benefits for, and especially for thinking of us. Feel free to let any 9/11 families who might want a quilt know about us.
Fondly,
Jane Jackson
United We Quilt
February 19, 2004
Dear Rick and Debbie,
Thank you so much for your assistance and the wonderful event held for GOLES this weekend. We really had a good time and the music was perfect. Again, Thank you so much. It was great.
Margaret Hughes
GOLES
02/08/2004
Dear Rick;
We are still floating from the wonderful afterglow of your February 7 jazz for peace concert. The house was packed and every head was bobbing to the infectious beats of your quintet along with every foot tapping. My guests went home happy and fulfilled. Thanks so much. We look foward to other even bigger events. Your idealistic message of hope and artistry must go foward. Count on the Counseling Service of EDNY to help you to carry that message.
Paul Ruchames
Executive Director
Counseling Service of EDNY
11/16/2003
I wanted to say thank you for allowing me the opportunity to show during your amazing concert! Fantastic!!! Thank you so very much for allowing me the opportunity to hear your music! Amazing! I loved the Brazilian tune in thefirst set where the precussionist and yourself were featured!
Thank you again for this opportunity,
Steve Barker
11/04/2003
Hi Rick,
Great show! You and your group played excellent on Saturday night. I found both your talent and skills and style of play very refreshing. It was much more direct and lively than I am used to seeing jazz played. And to me you really captured the way and spirit of jazz and how it is really supposed to be played. At least for me.
Thanks again for the opportunity to exhibit my artwork to your audience and participate in the program. All my friends really enjoyed themselves and I was very happy to see the positive response my work received.
A lot of what I believe you are doing coincides with my own vision of trying to develop a more powerful role and place for visual art in our culture for a better world and at the same time developing an audience, market and opportunity for artists, poets, musicians to tap into to develop their work along these same lines.
I would love to work further with you and your efforts.
Best,
Chris Nowlan
October 27, 2003
Rick!
Thank you for your support at our Voices Benefit on October 17, 2003. Jazz for Peace was awesome! Please share my sentiments with Stacy, Peter and Andrew.
Peace & Prosperity,
Cidra
Brotherhood Sister Sol
November 24, 2003
Hi Rick,
Thanks so much again for all that Jazz for Peace has done for the SuperSibs! mission. We are so grateful! I think the event was successful in raising awareness, which will increase future event participation. Tracey Lazos, the head of the NY chapter of SuperSibs!, may contact you to see about how we might collaborate for a March event.
Take care!
Heather Sutton
SuperSibs!
December 17, 2003
I just wanted to thank you and everyone at Jazz for Peace once again for a fantastic evening: Great music (Bill Evans is my hero), Hip-Hop Dancers dancing to Jazz, our own Developing Artists singing Holiday tunes...all to benefit a couple of vital organizations. Spreading Peace through Jazz and Art through young adults.
Jinn S. Kim
Managing Director
Developing Artists
See information and fliers for past events.
