Professional classical guitarist Murray Mandel is making the most of his retirement years, singing to raise money for the Smith Family.
A retired microbiologist, his musical talents are remarkable, having suffered profound hearing loss in both ears since birth.
He’s playing at Springwood Mall, performing four times a day until Saturday.
Instead of seeking tips for his authorised busking, he’s asking people to dig deep for people in need.
His performances at Springwood Mall are from 9.30am-4pm every day until Saturday, but it’s not his first rodeo as the saying goes, having already toured four months this time around.
Mr Mandel is inspired by “several struggling parents who have heard me over radio interviews, approaching me during my performances and requesting for their children to be supported by The Smith Family”.
He’s also done a similar tour promiting Lifeline – 409 performances in 156 shopping centres, raising $71,000 from passers by from 2017-2020.
“The Smith Family is a vital Australian charity organisation and is a very good cause indeed,” Mr Mandel said.
“I always believe that every child, whether they are disadvantaged or not disadvantaged, is to have good education and for them to succeed for the sake for their future.
“As of year 2021, 209,128 disadvantaged children and young people in Australia including over 29,227 in Queensland are supported through The Smith Family’s educational programs.”
More than 1200 have been supported in Logan.
After Saturday, he heads to Ipswich, then Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
“I like to use my energy as much as possible to help others – this has been my passion for many years,” Mr Mandel said.
“My goal is to reach out to as many people as possible about the importance of The Smith Family.
“I hope that passers-by will enjoy my live background soothing classical guitar music.
“I have the mental capacity to keep going that long. Comes from combination of determination, hard work, inner strength, dedication, perseverance and patience.”
