Not far removed from playing the John Lennon Northern Lights Festival in Scotland, Allison Crowe has flown into B.C. for a series of Tidings Concerts benefitting various local charities.

The 26-year-old Nanaimo-born, Cornerbrook, Nfld.-based singer-songwriter hits Victoria this Saturday (Dec. 8), along with special guests Lena Birtwistle and Billie Woods.

Featuring traditional Christmas tunes blended with Crowe’s modern mix of rock, jazz, folk, gospel and soul, the concert will benefit Victoria alternative school Artemis Place.

A registered non-profit charity organization, Artemis provides integrated life skills and academics for girls ages 14-19 who have not been successful in a traditional school setting.

Ladysmith-based Birtwistle combines acoustic balladry with folk-rock, country and humour.

Saltspring Island musician and photographer Woods, who’s toured Europe twice with Crowe, draws inspiration from the cultural rhythms of Brazil and utilizes her classical guitar training.

The concert takes place at the Victoria Conservatory of Music’s Wood Hall, 907 Pandora Ave. starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale at Ivy’s Book Shop, Lyle’s Place, The Patch (719 Yates). Tickets may also be available at the door. For more information call 250-537-1286.

patrickb@vicnews.com