In 1994, in his hometown of Portland, Oregon, Thomas Lauderdale was working in politics, thinking he would run for mayor one day. Like other eager politicians-in-training, he went to every political fundraiser under the sun… but was dismayed to find the music at these events underwhelming, lackluster, loud, and un-neighborly. Drawing inspiration from music from all over the world—crossing genres of classical, jazz and old-fashioned pop—and hoping to appeal to conservatives and liberals alike, he founded the “little orchestra” Pink Martini in 1994. His aim? To provide more beautiful and inclusive musical soundtracks for political fundraisers supporting causes such as civil rights, affordable housing, the environment, libraries, public broadcasting, education, and parks. Featuring more than a dozen musicians, Pink Martini performs its multilingual repertoire throughout the world.

Performances:
Friday, September 16, 7:30 pm
Saturday, September 17, 7:30 pm
Sunday, September 18, 3 pm

Sponsored by The Reser Family Foundation and Oregon State University Foundation.