Jam for Jim

image_pdfimage_print
Butch McCarthy
by Butch McCarthy

A few months ago Jim Tavares, guitarist extraordinaire and much-beloved guitar teacher, suffered a stroke.  A group of friends and fellow-musicians, led by Glen Nunes and Rick “Rubin” Pacheco, have organized a fund-raising concert which will be held from 2-10 P.M. on Sunday, April 10th, at The Seaport Inn and Marina in Fairhaven. Fourteen local bands will be performing on two stages in two separate rooms throughout the day. All proceeds from this event will go towards helping with Jim’s medical costs.

The bands performing at this concert include Wood and Wire, Blues Train Band, The Relics, Batteries Not Included, Walk the Line, Pearly Baker Acoustic, Boneshaker, Mostly Mikes, J. Kelley, Slingshot, Girl Friday, Blu Lobsta, Revolving Circle and The McCarthy-Richards & Legge All Star Band.

jam for jim new bedford guideAlong with the music, Pizan’s will be serving pizza. There will be face-painting for the kids, as well as over 200 silent auction items including several guitars, Red Sox v. Yankees tickets, and musical equipment. Dozens of local businesses have offered their sponsorship, and you can view a list of who is involved and what is available for auction here.

Jim’s music career began in the ’70s, with such bands as Static, Wine, Paradox, Minx, The Otis Campbell Band, Jezebel, Butch McCarthy Band, Ava, Alibi, The Mudcats, Slick Willy, and Slap. Most recently Jim has been performing in the acoustic band Wood n’ Wire, with partners Bill Santos and Mike Lavoie.  Although Jim is great performer, his true claim to fame is his ability as guitar teacher.

Hundreds of local musicians got their start under Jim’s tutelage. Glen Nunes told me his son Zack adores Jim, and that he Zack is a rocker now thanks to Jim.  Jim is also regarded as one of the nicest, most genuine players in the local music scene- a true friend and stand-up guy.  There are many stories about Jim turning around problem kids with his gentle, persuasive teaching methods.

“Rubin” told me that Jim is still in rehab, but making good progress.  He is very much aware of the benefit concert, and is very thankful to everyone. It should be a great day of music, and it’s for a great cause.  I hope to see you there!

Tickets are available at Top Music, Symphony Music Shop and The Music Center. For more information, email: info@jimtavaresfund.com.  There is also a Facebook group for the event, in addition to the website.

About butchmccarthy

Check Also

Massachusetts State Trooper exemplifies “protect and to serve” motto with simple act of kindness

“On Saturday, a resident of Adams was driving through town when they captured this image …

One comment

  1. Right on guys. I didn’t know Jimmy that well , but I took guitar lessons from him in my late 30’s. Always inspiring and patient. I’d bring him songs I wanted to get a handle on, that I thought were incredibly difficult, one listen through (if he already didn’t know it) he’d write out note for note tablature for me. I still cherish that pile of paper in my music room. Get strong Jim. I wish I could be there.
    Paul J. Gomes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Translate »