Though The Reducers are probably New London’s biggest international music resource, singer Karl Kelly was certainly one of our all-time icons. An incredibly versatile vocalist whose joyous spirit exuded the conviction that music could make any situation better, Kelly, a member of the Connecticut Blues Hall of Fame, passed away in 2013.

But death only silenced his talent in the most literal sense. Kelly touched so many musicians and fans over his 64 years that his legacy is being sustained through the Karl Kelly Annual Memorial Scholarship.

The fourth such presentation takes place Sunday afternoon at Waterford’s Great Neck Country Club, and a huge retinue of local musicians — those who played with him and/or were inspired by him — will perform. Brother Big Eye, Pirates for Peace and Van Haley will play sets before Andre & Friends host an all-star finale featuring an expansive and representative roster of players doing a litany of Kelly’s favorite songs.

In addition, there will be raffles with prizes supplied by local businesses and citizens.

All proceeds benefit New London schools’ music programs under the stewardship of New London High School music director Christina Nadeau. Last year’s concert raised more than $12,000 — which was judiciously invested in new instruments, instrument repair, sheet music, lessons and anything else that might help a young person pursue musical ambitions.

“Karl came up through the New London school system, and this city and its kids were very important to him,” says drummer John Van Ness, one of the organizers of the event and a longtime Kelly band mate. “He loved all styles of music and recognized that there are a lot of kids who are interested in music but might not have a way to pursue it.”

In an age when funding to various school programs has become a delicate commodity, whether in terms of presenting basic curriculum or extracurricular activities, money from the Kelly concerts is more important than ever. Van Ness says Nadeau’s experience, compassion and dedication are particularly important given the reality faced by many students.

“We met with Christine after last year’s event to discuss how best to spend the money, and her dedication is so impressive,” Van Ness says.

"Sometimes, there isn't enough equipment to go around, and sometimes families don't have the resources. Christine was loaning her own instruments out just so they could play. This is such a great opportunity to make a difference.

"But so many kids are interested in music, Christine was loaning her own instruments out just so they could play. This is such a great opportunity to make a difference.”

Nadeau said, "We are very appreciative when the community comes together to raise money for our program. Music is an important aspect of our students' lives and the students truly benefit form the support of the community, especially events like the Karl Kelley Memorial Concert. Our students are very dedicated to creating a better program here at NLHS and this kind of support helps us with our progress."

As the concert is a benefit in all best senses of the word, it shouldn’t be forgotten that the event is also a celebration of Kelly’s life.

“It’s going to be amazing fun because it’s an opportunity for great local players to let it out for one special day of the year,” Van Ness says. “Most of us had the opportunity to play with Karl over the years — and we learned so much from him. A gig with Karl was almost like a boot camp. He was very encouraging and open to musicians, but he was also very demanding of his musicians.”

Reflecting Kelly’s diverse musical tastes, Sunday’s music should provide a familiar and nostalgic soundtrack that spans decades. Kelly’s bands were ambitious and versatile and, on any given night, fans could anticipate selections that ranged from originals to the Beatles, Motown, Mountain, Steely Dan, Faces, Buddy Miles, the Allman Brothers and much more.

“Karl taught us to explore musical styles we wouldn’t have normally considered,” Van Ness says. “And we learned how to enjoy stuff we wouldn’t have normally considered. I think the idea that there are kids in New London who will get to experience that same sense of musical adventure, when maybe they wouldn’t have otherwise, is something we’re all proud of. And I know Karl would be.”

IF YOU GO

What: Fourth annual Karl Kelly Memorial Scholarship Concert benefitting New London schools

Who: Brother Big Eye, Pirates for Peace, Van Haley and all-star finale hosted by Andre & Friends

When: 2 p.m. Sunday

Where: Great Neck Country Club, 28 Lamphere Road, Waterford

How much: $20, tickets available Cafe Sol, Niantic; Silva's Package Store, Waterford; Groton Guitars, Groton; Spindrift Guitars, New London; and Nancy's Hair Salon and Muddy Waters Cafe, New London

Info: see the concert's Facebook page