The Port Townsend High School orchestra and band had a successful virtual performance Dec. 12 that raised more than $5,000 for the Kiwanis Backpack Project.
Student in groups of four or five …
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The Port Townsend High School orchestra and band had a successful virtual performance Dec. 12 that raised more than $5,000 for the Kiwanis Backpack Project.
Student in groups of four or five performed live while sitting apart from one another and wearing masks. Their performances were then broadcast live on the internet.
“This was an experiment to see if we could do it and the kids were amazing,” said PTHS music director Daniel Ferland.
“For a first try, I think we did as well as we could. Unfortunately, we had some unforeseen camera glitches. But their music sounded great and you could tell the kids were playing their hearts out.”
The performance, called Winter Stringfest, usually raises funds for a yearly band and orchestra tour. However, since a trip will not be happening this year, senior student leaders choose to raise funds for a local cause instead.
The seniors decided to support the Kiwanis Backpack Project, which provides meals to local families whose kids qualify for free and reduced lunches.
Last year, Kiwanis provided almost 18,000 weekend meals.
“Food insecurity is a real concern for many in east Jefferson County,” said Kiwanis president Liz Quayle.
Students contacted local businesses to sponsor the concert and solicited donations from individuals. The music boosters set up a GoFundMe account to direct viewers to the concert.
Last week, the performance on YouTube had already racked up more than 800 views.
“A lot of us students are excited to share that we have been able to do something,” said senior musician Stella Jorgenson.
Ferland said the orchestra performed several works, including “Galop!” by Brian Balamages and “Sequoia” by Brian Holmes.
In addition, there was a pre-recorded piece by the school’s jazz band called “Halfway on the Hudson.”
“I’m super proud of the students. This has been a very difficult year so far and to keep students playing at such a high level is very impressive,” Ferland said.
Winter Stringfest can still be viewed by clicking the link on the music booster website at www.PTHSMusic.com.
The GoFundMe link can be found there as well, and donations are still being accepted.
