LOWER LAKE — The Lower Lake High School music program and choir will represent the entire State of California in an ambitious project to promote music education. An ensemble performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” takes place this June in Washington, D.C., made up of choral and music groups from across the U.S. The LLHS Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, Concert Choir and La Choralista (chamber choir) will be included among their number.
According to LLHS Music Director Jennifer Ingram, this will be the world”s largest performance of the U.S. National Anthem, spearheaded by the National Anthem Project.
The National Association for Music Education launched its National Anthem Project campaign in January 2006, according to the campaign”s Web site, www.thenationalanthemproject.org/. The purpose of the National Anthem Project is to “restore America”s voice through music education.”
The campaign cites a poll finding that two out of three Americans don”t know all of the words to “The Star-Spangled Banner,” nor do they know which song is the U.S. National Anthem.
Ingram reported to the school board one year ago that the LLHS choir has been selected to be the representative for the entire state of California. “We have raised a good deal of money but we have so much farther to go,” Ingram stated this week when asked for a fund-raising update. Each participating student needs to pay $1,200 for a total cost of $40,000.
Ingram noted that any contributions will be tax-deductible. “Investing in this event will not only support students of Lower Lake High School but it will also be a source of pride for all of Lake County and Northern California.”
Donations payable to LLHS Music can be sent to Lower Lake High School, Attn. Jennifer Ingram, Washington D.C. Trip, 9430 Lake St., Lower Lake, CA 95457. If you have any questions, you can reach Ingram at 994-6471, ext. 135, or e-mail jingram@llhs.lake.k12.ca.us. Ingram noted that contributors will be honored publicly in programs for the high school dinner and cabaret, as well as its spring concert. “Any assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated.”
Contact Cynthia Parkhill at cparkhill@clearlakeobserver.com.
