Spotlight on Jackie Lee, Volunteer Bartender

Jackie Lee has been volunteering behind the drink table at Rush Hour Concerts for the past five years, serving wine with a laugh and a smile. He works full-time in commercial real estate, and also freelances as a stage manager and a music writer, where he profiles musicians and reviews concerts. His musical tastes are very diverse—when asked what his two favorite groups are, he replied “Skinny Puppy and Amy Grant.” In addition to 1980’s industrial and early-90’s contemporary Christian pop, Jackie Lee’s into many diverse genres of heavy metal, gospel, and Latin music—and of course, classical chamber music. Although he stresses that he has no piercings or tattoos, Jackie Lee’s love for music and his commitment to making sure the Rush Hour receptions run smoothly are as visible in his demeanor as any body modification.

It was his work as a stage manager for the annual Humanities Festival that initially brought Jackie Lee to St. James Cathedral. After getting involved in various events at the church, he started working at Rush Hour during the summer. Initially, he was attracted to helping out at the musical events, but he’s stayed with Rush Hour for so long because of the presence of the crowd and the need to participate in diverse activities. He had worked as a catering supervisor and as a union stagehand in college, and still enjoys the busyness and anticipation of the crowd.