Riley, a fifth grader at Timber Trail Elementary school, plays her violin during the closing ensemble performance of “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin during the Save the Music student performance night on February 10 at the Castle Pines Community Center.

 
Article and photos by Elean Gersack

On Friday, February 10, musical talent was abound at the Castle Pines Community Center as student performers captivated crowds of friends, family and neighbors with the annual Save the Music student performance concerts.  Young musicians performed solos before playing Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir” as an ensemble to close out the night.

The Castle Pines Arts & Cultural Foundation (CPACF) sponsors this event each year with the Colorado Chamber Orchestra to highlight the importance of the arts for youth.  Music Director Thomas Blomster and Education Director Debbie Davidson-Stanfill inspire children in the community to celebrate music, passion and perseverance.  

Davidson-Stanfill coordinates the band and orchestra before and after school programs.  According to CPACF board member Gaylynn Abram, there would not be a program without her.  “Debbie is a treasure.  She had a keen eye on every student that performed, watching with pride, admiration and accomplishment,” shared Abram.   

“It’s still really miraculous to think someone that young is starting to figure out all of these mechanics.  You know, different actions that each hand is going to take, possibly your mouth if you are a wind player.  It’s just an incredible amount of things to control at one time,” said Blomster.  “The real beauty of learning how to play a musical instrument is that it really teaches discipline – self-discipline,” he added.  

One student, Riley, who is a fifth grader at Timber Trail Elementary school performed “Hedwig’s Theme” from Harry Potter for her solo.  “I play violin and I’ve wanted to for a long time so I started last year.  It took a long time practicing that song to get it because I couldn’t get the end of it,” she shared.  As for the ensemble, she enthusiastically mentioned that it sounded better than it did in class.  

The CPACF is grateful to the Colorado Chamber Orchestra’s Debbie Davidson-Stanfill and Thomas Blomster for keeping music enrichment alive and thriving in Douglas County.  Pictured left to right:  Vicky Kellen, Sarah Tweed, Debbie Davidson-Stanfill, Thomas Blomster, Gaylynn Abram and Cheryl McGovern.

Later in the month on February 24, CPACF welcomed the Hank Troy Jazz Trio for an adult-only Jazz, Wine & Eats event with a traditional wine-pull fundraiser at the Daniel’s Gate Clubhouse in Castle Pines.  Both of these events raised funds to support music scholarships for qualified elementary students in Douglas County.  “The program involves about 1,400 students annually; about 10 percent need assistance, most often half-tuition scholarships.  Of those 140, about 20 need full scholarships,” shared Vicky Kellen, board member for the CPACF.

CPACF board members, Gaylynn Abram, Vicky Kellen, Cheryl McGovern and Sarah Tweed are grateful for all of the community support.  The group is on the lookout for an additional board member who is passionate about the arts.  To learn more, visit www.castlepinesarts.org.