Galena — The Eagle Ballroom at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa was the setting for an entertaining evening that included refreshing beverages, a delicious four-course meal, and engaging vocal and instrumental music, when Highland Community College’s Royal Scots entertained area residents on May 4 at a special fundraising event, “Jazz Cabaret.”
Under the direction of HCC music instructor Allen Redford, the Scots performed a program consisting of 18 songs, including several jazz numbers and some famous show tunes. Several songs featured solos by members of the Royal Scots, or by guest soloist Elvert Williams, an alumnus of HCC and the Royal Scots. Instrumental accompaniment was provided by “Cannova’s House Band” of Freeport, which included pianist Patrick Beckman, guitarist John Hartman, bassist Rick Andrews, and Jon Watson on drums.
The eight Highland students comprising the Royal Scots were Addison Cross, Maddie Donaldson, Chandler Lindsey, Katy Massey, Josh Naujokas, Cody Sturtevant, and Kelsey Wichman.
Redford said, “The goal of this event was to begin raising funds for the Colleges next choral music and educational tour, which is planned for 2018 or 2019.”
Last May, eighteen students, their chaperones, and several community members traveled to Austria and Germany, where they had opportunities to sing in several historic venues, to experience guided tours that highlighted the history of the region, and to stay a few days with German families.
The HCC Foundation is most appreciative of Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa’s generosity and support in planning, promoting, and hosting the event. In addition, several generous underwriters helped cover various costs. Hors d”ouevres sponsors were Dr. Michael & Sheila Wells and Jim & Kathy Berberet. Other underwriters included Apple River State Bank/First Community Bank of Galena, John & Margarete Cooke, Galena Gazette, Jo-Carroll Energy, and Woodbine Bend Golf Course & Restaurant.
“An event such as Jazz Cabaret in a setting like Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa provides our students with a wonderful opportunity to perform like professionals, noted Redford. “We are delighted to partner with the HCC Foundation and to begin working on our next fundraising goal — and our next enriching travel goal.”
For information regarding donating to support Highland’s next choral music tour, contact Kim Rampenthal at the HCC Foundation, 815-599-3724 or kim.rampenthal@highland.edu.
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OFFICE OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS
2998 W. Pearl City Road
Freeport, IL 61032-9341
815-235-6121
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