VCHS jazz bands and choirs to present free concert March 5

Last year’s Benefit concert: the VCHS Jazz Band under the baton of Jeff Beck.

The 26th Annual Jazz Benefit Concert will be presented by the award-winning Valley Center Middle and High School Jazz Bands, under the direction of Band Director Jeff Beck March 5, 1 p.m. at the Maxine Theatre at Valley Center High School. This free concert will include jazz, swing, and big band music. 

The benefit concert kicks off the groups’ competition seasons, which they generally sweep in schools across Southern California.  

 “These students are ready to dominate competitions in Orange, Los Angeles, and San Diego Counties, including the prestigious Coronado Jazz Festival,” said Sara Bender, president of the Valley Center/Pauma Music Boosters. “This concert is a chance to see them at their very best.  This free concert is the only time the community can see all these groups together, featuring traditional jazz, swing and big band music.”

As part of their fundraiser, there will be a nacho and baked potato bar for purchase, hosted by the Boosters, beginning at noon. The concert begins at 1 p.m., with doors opening at noon. Come early to get a good seat and have lunch. 

The event serves as a great opportunity to thank the community for their continued support. The students share what they do best: perform excellent music. 

The Maxine Theater is located at Valley Center High School, 31322 Cole Grade Rd. This event is a key fundraiser for the music programs, which are supported by the booster volunteer organization. The Valley Center/Pauma Music Boosters is a 501c3 non-profit organization that, through the support of the community and volunteers, delivers a budget for all the extras that support Valley Center schools’ music programs. 

The Boosters ensures that our schools’ extensive music programs continue and are offered at minimal cost to students. This organization helps fund bus trips, provides and maintains instruments, music clinicians and support for uniforms and performance wear for nearly 600 students in band and choir in five area schools.  To contribute to the Boosters, visit the Music Boosters donation site at givebutter.com/dg0nWb.