Music Conservatory of Sandpoint to host Summer Serenade
A Music Conservatory honors student is pictured during a recent performance as she is accompanied by instructor Caren Reiner. MCS awarded 83 scholarships last academic year in support of music education for area youth.
(Photo courtesy CHARIS UZABEL)
Throughout the year, the Sandpoint community has had the pleasure to witness firsthand the unique talent of the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint's students. Now, it's the faculty's turn to entertain the community while also raising money for the students' scholarship program and the Music Conservatory's extensive arts access programs.
On July 23, the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint will host the Summer Serenade featuring performances by the staff of classical music featuring instrumental solos, vocal, and micro ensembles all for a worthy cause.
According to board president Kathi Samuels, the Music Conservatory awarded 83 scholarships last year, totaling $25,000. Their goal this year is to meet, and hopefully exceed, that amount for the upcoming school year.
Since opening in 2009, the Music Conservatory has hosted nearly 5,000 students. Its mission encompasses instruction and inspiration for not just music, but all forms of performing arts including theater. Their several areas of music and performing arts, which have 22 instructors, include string, theater, voice, piano, orchestra and contemporary music. Among the programs they offer are Music Matters! After School Initiative, Early Childhood — Little Mozarts and Honors track.
Founder Karin Wedemeyer shares that the Music Conservatory welcomes all regardless of their economic background. "We need to have art accessible to all," she said.
“This Summer Serenade is an annual event and is unique because it demonstrates the bonded relationship between Music Conservatory of Sandpoint, our teachers, and our students,” said board secretary, Charis Uzabel. "We work hard to come alongside our students to help them succeed, and we understand that nurturing skills can take years plus a great deal of investment from families.”
The success of the Music Conservatory is in large part due to the support of the Sandpoint community. Attending the July 23 event will be Sandpoint newcomer Jim Mills owner of Cabin View Winery just outside of Sandpoint. He will share his over 20 years of experience in the industry and will feature regional wines. Mills has been the winemaker for both red and white wines for one of the largest wineries in Washington State. He has also worked in New Zealand and traveled the world exploring wine.
Featuring local wine at the July 23 event is just another demonstration of how our community partners with the Music Conservatory to support music education and the scholarship program.
“Our goal is to keep music accessible for all, and this concert is one way the community can not only experience our talented musicians but also join us to support Sandpoint's youth," said Uzabel.
The performance will take place streetside, 110 Main St., in downtown Sandpoint in Sandpoint’s Little Carnegie Concert Hall beginning at 7 p.m. The doors open at 6 p.m. with a no-host wine bar for those wanting to take advantage of all that the evening has to offer, including summery appetizers and concessions. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students.
Following the performance there will be a chance to mingle with the performers and continue sipping.
For more information or to donate to student scholarships, visit sandpointconservatory.org or mail your donation to PO Box 907, Sandpoint, ID 83864. Tickets are available at the Conservatory, online, or at the door.