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If Hilton Head Island residents were challenged to name a true Renaissance man, Dr. Jack McConnell might very well be the first one they list.
McConnell founded Hilton Head Island’s Volunteers in Medicine Clinic in 1993 to serve the needs of the medically underserved living and working on Hilton Head and Daufuskie islands. It has been the model for 84 free clinics staffed by retired medical professionals now operating throughout the country.
But skill at medicine and love of philanthropy do not a Renaissance man make. There’s so much more to McConnell. For example, there’s his love of music, which has indirectly touched the lives of people around the world. McConnell’s son, Page, learned to play piano at age 4 by sharing a bench with his father. Thanks in no small part to time spent at the piano with his dad, Page went on to become keyboardist and vocalist for the iconic jam band Phish. On one occasion, the doctor joined the group on stage. singing with his son and tap dancing before a crowd of 35,000.
“Life doesn’t get much better than that,” the elder McConnell said of his performing experience.
It was a simple decision, then, when VIM’s Board of Directors sought an appropriate way to honor and celebrate their founder that they decided on an evening of music.
“Dr. Jack’s loves are music, medicine, service to others and his wife Mary Ellen,” said former VIM chairman Larry Bangs, who is also a member of the board of the Junior Jazz Foundation, the non-profit outreach of Hilton Head’s popular Jazz Corner.
“Bob Masteller and the Junior Jazz Foundation are collaborating with VIM to create a memorable evening of music and dancing. It’s a wonderful example of how two island organizations can get together to produce something truly special for the community.”
The Big Band Swing is scheduled for Nov. 17 at the Marriott Resort on Hilton Head Island. Joe Gransden, a vocalist and trumpet player, will bring his 16-piece band from Atlanta, along with jazz artist and performer Annie Sellick.
Musicians and students from around the island will also perform during the evening’s festivities.
“Bringing Joe, Annie and the Big Band to Hilton Head is right in line with our foundation’s objectives,” said Bob Masteller, who’s been playing music on the island since the 1970s.
The night club-themed Big Band Swing will recall the heyday of the 1940s music scene with the songbooks of greats like Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Count Basie, a martini bar and a Fred Astaire dance exhibition. Proceeds from the evening will benefit both Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island and The Junior Jazz Foundation. While traditional fundraising auctions will not be included, guests will be encouraged to support both organizations.
Big Band Swing:
A Tribute to Dr. jack McConnell
When: 6: 30 p.m.
Nov. 17, with a
reception beginning
at 6 p.m.
Where: Hilton Head Marriott Resort & Spa, Palmetto Dunes
How much: $100 per person, $1,200 for a table of 8
Details: Cocktails,
music, dinner and dancing to honor VIM founder Dr. Jack
McConnell, with music by Joe Grandsen, 16-piece big band and vocalist Annie Sellick. Nightclub attire
recommended (no black tie).
Details: 843-689-6612, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
