Written by Wendy Kenison
Photographs by Steve Montalto – HighMountain Images —
OAKHURST — Yosemite High School Music Department’s 8th annual fundraiser, Nite on the Town, played to a sell-out crowd on Saturday, Mar. 5, and was deemed by all to be a smashing success. With over 400 people in attendance, 100 musicians delighted the crowd with choral pieces and instrumental numbers.
Transformed into a dessert theater, the gymnasium at YHS was glittering with tea lights set atop decorated linens of tables for eight.
Prior to show time attendees had a chance to peruse the silent auction and shop for a unique item, warm up by sipping on some delicious coffee provided by Cool Bean, and visit with others from the community while enjoying the smooth sounds of the Yosemite High School Jazz Band.
Many choral songs were presented in turn by the Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, Men’s Choir, and Women’s Choir; interspersed throughout were numbers presented by the Wind Ensemble and Percussion Group in the YHS Band.
Sprinkled in were solo performances arranged by individuals and groups, showcasing their various talents in song and instrumental pieces.
During intermission, a variety of desserts prepared by the YHS Culinary Class sweetened the palate, while the Jazz Band was back at it ending the break with Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood.”
As intermission ended, the live auction began. The auctioneer, Phil Tews, entertained while selling items for the benefit of the YHS Music Program.
There were many highlights of the evening, including a tribute to the Seabees recognizing their official 74th anniversary. The dedication was given by Veronia Longcor to her husband Jason Longcor, a retired US Navy Seabee of 24 years, guests in the audience.
A Seabee is a member of the United States Navel Construction Forces. The word Seabee comes from the initials “CB,” which is short for the term “Construction Battalion.” This patriotic song, “Song of the Seabees” was emotionally performed by the combined band and choir.
As the night was coming to a close, the last solo stage musician brought the audience to their feet with an electrifying violin performance of “Orange Blossom Special” accompanied by piano and guitar.
The end to a terrific show, the finale included all the talented musicians. The performance of “Irving Berlin: from Rags to Ritz” was comprised of the entire choir and band, as all three stages were filled with musicians sharing in the joy of music and gratitude for the support of the many guests in attendance.
Nite on the Town started eight years ago as a showcase and as the largest fundraiser of the YHS Music Program, by retired Band Director Randy Hyatt.
That legacy has been passed on to current Band Director Francisco Marquez and Choral Director Christel Biasell. Hundreds of hours are dedicated to the practice, musicianship, and planning of the event.
Thanks go to the collaboration of dedicated instructors, administration, parents, and community sponsors that make this sell-out event possible.
The 9th annual Nite on the Town is set for March 4, 2017.
Wendy Kenison is a YHS parent volunteer.
