Mother nature dealt a heavy dose of wet weather late last week, right up to the hours just prior to the 23rd Annual Folsom Wine and Jazz event in Historic Folsom. While the rains stopped late in the afternoon, chilly temperatures and evening winds lingered throughout the night, but that didn’t stop the show from going on and the abundance of young talent it showcased.
A total of 16 different wineries signed up to pour at Friday’s event, while eight different restaurants signed up to served samplings and small plates of their local fare around the railroad turntable at Historic Folsom Station for ticketholders to enjoy, all to the benefit of the Folsom High School Music Boosters.
In addition to the money raised from ticket sales, Friday’s event included a silent auction in which guests generously made their bids throughout the night. The many items offered were donated by numerous area businesses, ranging from services, to experiences and many great items in between. Attendees were being generous with their bids throughout the night and the final tally of funds raised was still taking place this week.
Bundled up in warm clothing, guests enjoyed the sipping and savoring and bidding, which was the pre-show of the main the event. Shining bright on stage throughout the evening were dozens of young musicians showcasing their talents once again, and doing it amidst the adversity of chilly temperatures and wine without missing a beat.
“I am proud of all the kids for enduring through the night cold and some of the wind,” said Williams, band director for the Folsom High School Music Program.
Folsom High School Jazz Band 1 was the first to take the stage followed by the Sutter Middle School Jazz Band. Folsom High School Jazz Band 2 was the third on stage followed by the Folsom High School Jazz Choir before Folsom’s Jazz Band 1 returned to close out the night.
Williams is the Band Director for Folsom High School, Duncan Mcelman lead the Sutter Middle School Jazz Band and even grabbed a saxophone to play with the students on one song. Mcelman has been filling the role while regular director Kelsey Iverson has been out on maternity leave.
A nonprofit organization established more than 20 years ago, the Music Boosters provide volunteer support for festivals, football games, parades, community events and fundraising in support of the music programs at Folsom High School. Friday’s event is one of five events presented by the Folsom High School Music program during the year.
For those that couldn’t make it Friday and would like to learn more about the Folsom High School Music Boosters or donate, they can always do so through their website at www.folsommusic.org. Photos and video by Bill Sullivan, Folsom Times.
