Helping Orphans

Burnt out by the constant struggle that comes with musicianship, Trevor Hall found himself on a trip to India that opened his eyes and awakened his soul. While in Allahabad at the Kumbha Mela, Hall stayed at the ashram Yoga Vedanta Kutir. He recalls his experience on his blog: "I had the privilege of meeting the 'ashram boys,' which consisted of five or six young boys between the ages of 5 and 14. These boys were the most divine little boys I had ever met. They served so selflessly around the ashram, taught me the game of cricket, showed me their yoga postures, and sang chants with me. I learned that all of these boys were orphans at one time or another, and the head of the ashram took them in, cleaned them up, taught them yoga and sent them to school. When leaving the ashram, I couldn't help but shed tears while saying goodbye to the boys. They touched my heart in so many ways."

Overwhelmed by his experience, Hall was unable to write songs while in India. Anything that transpired musically could not accurately represent the actual astonishment one can only experience in person. Upon returning to the States, Hall was gripped by a deep desire to assist the orphaned boys who had moved him in such a monumental way, and the musical creativity began to flow. With a renewed love for music and a drive to help, Hall will be bringing his unique blend of folk and reggae to the Neighborhood Congregational Church in Laguna Beach to do a benefit show. All proceeds will be sent to the orphans of the Yoga Vedanta Kutir to help provide food, clothing and education.

Trevor Hall performs for the benefit of the orphans of the Yoga Vedanta Kutir at Neighborhood Congressional Church, 340 St. Anns Dr., Laguna Beach. Fri., 8 p.m. $15 minimum donation; students, $10.