Son of actor Clint Eastwood, jazz bassist Kyle Eastwood will be performing in Norton Auditorium March 19 at 7 p.m.

A percentage of ticket sales will assist the Christmas for Kids program.

Founded by Florence resident Debbie Dixon, the program gives gifts to children with incarcerated parents, according to Alabama Women’s Resource Network.

While Eastwood is the son of a famous actor, his musical talent has helped him forge his own creative path, he said.

Living in Paris, France for the past seven years has influenced his musical style.

“There are a lot of different musicians from all over the world,” Eastwood said. “Musical culture melts together in Europe.”

A deep respect for music is ever-present in his life.

“I have always loved all kinds of music,” Eastwood said. “It doesn’t matter what genre it is or what label is on it. If it’s musical and it moves you, I like it and I listen to it.”

Junior entertainment industry major and local musician T.J. Bender said past experience with jazz has given him more respect for such musicians.

“Jazz is a very difficult style to play,” Bender said. “You gain more respect for other musicians when you get outside of your comfort zone.”

Experience in the film industry has created an outlet for Eastwood’s musical compositions.

“The one I am most proud of was for a film my father made called ‘Letters from Iwo Jima,’” Eastwood said. “The scene was very strong, and I am happy with how the music fit the film.”

In response to the usual solo work of composing film scores, he said he appreciates every opportunity for collaboration.

“I have always enjoyed writing music with other people,” he said. “It sort of opens you up to approaching and making music differently. It makes one think outside of the box.”

Dixon is credited with requesting Eastwood. Her company, Debbie D, is assisting SKB Productions in organizing the concert.

“This is the birthplace of W.C. Handy, so there is a lot of jazz here,” Dixon said. “There is a lot about this place that we should all be proud of. We are tickled to death that he is coming to Florence.”

Eastwood said he is anticipating traveling to a region well-known for its musical prowess.

“It will be my first time, but hopefully not the last,” he said. “I have always loved traveling and hearing music from different cultures and different parts of the world or even different parts of the United States.”

Bender said he encourages others to attend the event and such an experience will create a more open mind.

“Each performance is unique in its own way, because nothing is ever done the same way twice,” Bender said. “Live concerts tend to make people appreciate music more. It creates a feeling that you can only get from being in that environment.”

Eastwood hopes to send a strong message with his music, one that benefits programs such as Christmas for Kids and inspires communication around the world.

“Music is the universal language,” Eastwood said. “It makes everybody feel something. I can’t imagine life without music.”

To hear Eastwood’s work and view his complete discography and scores for films, visit kyleeastwood.com.