Seattle group plays Vashon fundraiser

In a benefit concert for the Vashon group Rock Island String Kollective (RISK), the Seattle band The Onlies will bring their original and fiddle-driven music to Havurat Ee Shalom from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday.

In a benefit concert for the Vashon group Rock Island String Kollective (RISK), the Seattle band The Onlies will bring their original and fiddle-driven music to Havurat Ee Shalom from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Garfield High School juniors Riley Calcagno, Sami Braman and Leo Shannon have played music together since they were 2 years old. All versatile musicians, they switch between singing and playing fiddle, guitar, mandolin and banjo. The Onlies recently released their third album at Town Hall Seattle to a crowd of over 700.

RISK began six years ago with the goal of encouraging teens to keep playing their instruments. Over the years, RISK has developed into a group that welcomes a range of instruments, including violin, viola, cello, guitar, ukulele, mandolin, banjo and harp. RISK seeks to provide a fun, light-hearted environment for musicians of all ages and stages to play and learn together.

Two years ago, RISK Jr. began in association with RISK but for elementary-aged students. Kim Thal and Sarah Perlman gear the program towards grades three to five. Though Thal and Perlman teach the RISK Jr. students at Chautauqua Elementary, the program is not affiliated with the school.

RISK and RISK Jr. provide low-cost group music lessons for Vashon residents who might not have the opportunity or funds for private lessons. The groups are open to all.

Suggested donations for the concert are $10 for youth and $15 for adults, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Advance tickets are available at the Vashon Bookshop.