Rhapsody on the Point

On May 18, the public is invited to soar with the Point Loma High School Instrumental Music program by attending Rhapsody on the Point at Humphrey’s by the Bay. The students hope to raise $20,000 at the concert and fundraiser, which is also a celebration of the opening of the new Music Center at PLHS - the culmination of six years of fundraising, advocacy, and endless patience. The space promises to be an outward expression of the program’s success, with classrooms, practice rooms, a choir room, offices and a music production and recording studio. The students will honor Music Center donors and all of the people who worked hard to make the Center a reality.

Soar With Us!

Why the soaring metaphor? A historical look at the Point Loma Instrumental Music program shows a phoenix rising from the ashes: In 2003, band students showed up to band camp - only to find no director to lead them. Undaunted, the students organized themselves and led the practices, then found a temporary director to keep the program going. Over the past nine years, the program has indeed soared, providing a foundation for young musicians through camaraderie, community service, and exceptional standards for musical achievement. Unfortunately - and again - looming school budget cuts continue to threaten the momentum that has changed the lives of so many young adults. The San Diego Unified School District provides funding only for director James Sepulvado's salary, while the program must cover expenses for music, instruments, instruction, uniforms, transportation, and competition fees at an annual cost of $70,000 - and the program is growing! Rhapsody on the Point will help to bridge the funding gap through ticket sales, sponsorships and from money raised by the sale of fabulous auction items offered the evening of the event. The evening begins at 6:00 pm with hors d' oeuvres, cocktails and a silent auction. The concert begins at 7:00 pm. General Admission and premium Cabaret table seating is available on the website, www.rhapsodyonthepoint.com ($45 General Admission; $80 for two; cabaret tables from $250 - $1000). The program will continue a tradition of performing Rhapsody in Blue every five years. This year, San Diego pianist Diane Snodgrass will do the honors and also perform a solo piece. Dr. Snodgrass is returning to Rhapsody in Blue after being introduced to the piece at the age of eleven. Her recent performances include Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals with the San Diego Symphony, an appearance with Greer Grimsley for the San Diego Opera, and a recital with flutist Lori Bell for the Los Angeles Philharmonic. County Supervisor Greg Cox will join a legion of famous orators in narrating Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait, a moving orchestral work narrated with words spoken by President Lincoln. "I'm excited to perform music that will inspire the audience," said student and bassoonist Sarah De Rosier. The evening is sure to not only inspire, but showcase the exceptional musical abilities of Point Loma High School students. To purchase tickets for the event or to be an event sponsor, go to www.Rhapsodyonthepoint.com.