This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.
01/17/2023 12:07 PMDinner and a show are all part of the package when the Guilford High School (GHS) music department presents its 30th annual concert to benefit Meals on Wheels on Wednesday, Feb. 15.
The free event will feature performances by GHS’ top ensembles, including Voices, jazz, and wind. And according to music department coordinator Mark Gahm, there are a few new offerings on the schedule for the 30th-anniversary performance.
“This year, we are also adding our select string group to the mix, the symphony orchestra, and changing the format to make it not just a concert but a marquee event that the whole community will want to attend,” Gahm said. “In addition to adding the strings to our program, we are also attempting to take advantage of the wonderful facility that we have in our high school. When audience members arrive at the performance, they will be greeted by several small string ensembles in the Commons providing chamber music as light hors d’oeuvres are served.”
As the evening moves on, Gahm said the audience will move with it. Patrons will move into the high school’s performing arts center for selections performed by Voices and the symphony orchestra featuring dance performances by students from the Arthur Murray Dance Studio. Then, the audience will be on the move again, returning to the Commons.
“The audience will then be invited back to the Commons with a musical selection by our wind ensemble, followed by performances that feature our jazz ensemble and Voices, accompanied by desserts served up by the Guilford Interfaith Ministries Board,” said Gahm.
Meals on Wheels Director Christi Burton said the free annual concert is one of the organization’s most important fundraisers of the year, and she’s excited about the new features planned for this year’s event.
“This is one of the more significant fundraisers we do. It is always a great way to tie in and connect with the community,” said Burton. “It’s exciting that this year Mark and his students are going to try and make it a little more elegant with serving appetizers and by having music in the common area as well. The food is going to be great as well; everyone is really looking forward to this event.”
In addition to desserts served by the Guilford Interfaith Ministries Board, local chefs are also contributing to the evening’s menu. Pasta Avest, Amanda’s Healthy Cooking, and Mary’s Culinary Classes, LLC will serve food starting at 6:30 p.m Meals on Wheels Chef Larry Santamaria will also dish up food.
“It always means a lot to us when people support us and back us up so kindly,” said Burton. “Partnering with the school has been 30 years of support, and that is a great thing. It’s also great for the kids to help be part of a nonprofit in their community.”
The 30th-anniversary concert to benefit Meals on Wheels is on Wednesday, Feb. 15, at Guilford High School, 605 New England Road. Chamber music and hors d’oeuvres begin at 6:30 p.m., and the main concert begins at 7 p.m. in the school’s performing arts center. Admission is free, and all donations benefit Guilford’s Meals on Wheels.
For more information about the Guilford Interfaith Volunteers and Meals on Wheels, visit givct.org or call 203-453-8359.