NORWICH - In an effort to come to the aid of a fellow Chenango County musician and local musical legend, some of the area’s most talented singers, songwriters and instrumentalists will gather from 1 to 7 p.m. September 10 at the Blarney Stone Pub, 26 South Broad Street.

It’s an all-day music event that will benefit vocalist and keyboardist Mike O’Connor, long a staple of the Central New York music scene who relocated to Florida with his wife, Maggie O’Connor, in recent years.

Known best for his stellar vocal, keyboard and harmonica skills over the decades, O’Connor recently developed life-threatening health issues that have taxed the musician and his family physically, spiritually and financially. Family and friends have called on local musicians and the community as a whole to give back to a man who has devoted his entire life to sharing his musical talents.

Known also for his colorful wit, O’Connor has been heard to say, “If you’re at the end of your rope, tie a knot,” and that’s exactly what friends and family are urging the community to do: help a beloved father, husband and grandfather “tie that knot,” so that he can make the slow climb back to a normal life.

The event features an impressive collection of local talent, including musicians that have shared the stage with O’Connor over the decades and those who’ve simply been inspired by the man. Acts include the Bruce Beadle Band; the return of Jes Sheldon and Thistle Dew; the Houserockers; Crushing Midnight; and The Laughing Buddha Episodes. There is a $15 suggested minimum donation that will be collected at the door, with proceeds and a portion of every food/drink sale going directly to O’Connor and the O’Connor family. Those unable to attend and wishing to help out can do so by visiting the event on Hannah Parrella, Mike or Maggie O’Connor’s Facebook pages.

– Information from the Blarney Stone Pub