The SwingMasters Big Band Promotion Organization is pleased to announce that “An Evening with the Divas” was a tremendous success. Our thanks go out to the more than 450 people who attended, and especially to the musicians who donated their services.
The concert date was Thursday, April 4, 2019, at 7 pm. The venue was the new 500-seat Performing Arts Center located at El Camino Fundamental High School. Thanks go to the San Juan Unified School District, which offered the hall at minimal cost. The facilities were wonderful, and the sound system operators did a great job.
On May 13, 2019, the SwingMasters Big Band Promotion Organization presented a check to the Butte County Office of Education for $20,060. As requested by the Board of Directors, the check was addressed to North Valley Community Foundation/Butte County Schools Long-Term Recovery Fund. In accordance with our pledge, all proceeds will be dedicated to the elementary and middle school music programs affected by the Camp Fire.
Net concert receipts were $15,055.20, and an additional $5,000 was donated after the concert. Special thanks go to the Rotary Club of Orangevale, which provided four Disneyland Park Hopper passes for the playing card raffle. Accounting details can be accessed upon request to SwingMasters.
Our featured “Divas” included some of Sacramento’s best-known female jazz singers: Beth Duncan, Rubi Lee, Vivian Lee, and Valerie V, and Sister Swing. They were backed by the SwingMasters, RC Swing Dance Band, and a jazz combo comprising Dr. Joe Gilman, Matt Robinson and Tim Metz. Sophia Jackson was featured with the El Camino High School jazz band.
Photos from the Evening with the Divas concert are available to view or purchase online, thanks to Phil Kampel.
To view them, please go to www.philkampel.smugmug.com and look for “An Evening with the Divas.”
Direct inquiries to: jbuntin@swingmasters.org