In 2002, Wall Street Journal writer Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan. In diametric response to that incident and its overall symbolism, Pearl's friends and family created the ongoing Daniel Pearl World Music Days memorial concerts.

Representing the healing power of music and reflecting Pearl's own status as a musician, the performances are international in scope and range from informal gatherings to large scale productions. To date, there have been over 13,900 Pearl concerts in 140 countries.

The New London music scene has been actively involved in these events. As always organized annually by the Shoreline Acoustic Music Society, this year's Pearl Music Days show takes place Friday in the Washington Street Coffee House in New London. Scheduled to perform are Raymond Lange, Mike Bailey, Gaetano, Bruce McDermott, Karen Ethier Waring and Steve Fagin.

In keeping with the family's wishes, the free Daniel Pearl World Music Days concerts are designed to raise awareness and are not fundraisers.

Daniel Pearl World Music Day Memorial Concert, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Washington Street Coffee House, 13 Washington St., New London; free; (860) 437-0664.