The MUSIC for a CHANGE benefit concert series will present a "Tribute to Harry Chapin," featuring Connecticut State Troubadour Bill Pere and an ensemble cast playing many of Chapin's most popular songs, on Friday, Nov. 6, at 7:30 p.m. in Wilde Auditorium. Tickets are $17.

Proceeds from the show will benefit Local United Network to Combat Hunger (LUNCH), an organization founded by Pere that works to carry on the legacy of Harry Chapin, who believed in using the power of popular music to produce positive social action. By providing a positive experience in community outreach through the arts, LUNCH helps children grow into tomorrow's leaders who will shape a world free of intolerance, injustice, and indifference as well as raise awareness of poverty and hunger.

Pere is one of Connecticut's Official State Troubadours, and widely known for his storytelling lyrics and songs with emotional impact. "Harry Chapin, of course, had an impact in showing how popular music could be used to address social issues, which is what I do now almost exclusively," he says.

Pere is an internationally published songwriter, recording artist, songwriting coach, and author of the internationally acclaimed Songcrafters' Coloring Book. He was the 2003 National Indie Artist of the year, two-time Connecticut Songwriter of the Year, and was cited as "one of the Top 50 Innovators and Guiding Lights in the music industry" by Music Connection Magazine in December 2008. Pere is also the president of the Connecticut Songwriters Academy.

For tickets to the concert, call the University box office at 860.768.4228 or 1.800.274.8587, or purchase them online at www.musicforachange.com. For more information about the MUSIC for a CHANGE concert series, go to www.hartford.edu/mfac, or join the MUSIC for a CHANGE Facebook page.