Friends and supporters of New Orleans bassist Mitchell Player are asking the community to help support the musician as he recovers from a kidney transplant performed on March 8.

After a three-year wait for a donor, Player recently underwent the life-changing surgery and now faces an extended recovery period during which he will be unable to perform and earn income.

Mitchell Player started and owned a New Orleans music-booking agency, Player Productions Inc., that booked internationally known trumpeter Leroy Jones exclusively. Player has produced, co-produced and worked in production capacity with festivals such as Gretna Heritage Festival, MPB Jazz Festival, Treme Fall Festival and more. Most recently, he has been owner and director of 504 Expereince LLC that strives to bring New Orleans entertainment and experience to the world through live music, event and festival productions.

A fundraiser has been launched to help cover Player’s daily living expenses while he focuses on healing and preparing to return to the music community. Organizers say the funds will assist with basic needs and recovery-related costs as he regains his strength.

Community members are encouraged to contribute if they are able and to share the fundraiser to help spread the word.

To contribute to the fund, click here.