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Our Annual Fund-raising Gala
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Concerts Bring Enrichment to Everyone
"The beauty of the Gala is that it makes a ‘full circle’. It begins with a community supporting the efforts of the GMEF with advertising and tier-giving. It continues as the community is ‘enriched’ with quality entertainment within our beautiful theater. Finally, it concludes with the awarding of grants for students throughout the district bringing children’s education to life. Students learn more when their basic curriculum is enhanced with technology, science, art, music, and physical education. Enrichment ties education together with our community." Joyce A. Phillips, Producer/Annual Gala


6th Annual Gala
The Philadelphia Mummers
'Aqua String Band'
April 25, 2010
2:30 pm
The Aqua String Band was founded with the intent of participating in the annual Philadelphia Mummers' New Year's Parade. The Band was organized on April 2, 1920 by Elmer W. Leyrer and Fred J. Kesel, Sr. and incorporated into the String Band Association in 1945. It was Mr. Kesel who first introduced the glockenspiel (bells) into the Mummers' Parade where they have remained a constant fixture ever since. The name “Aqua” is a reflection on the life and times of the during the Band’s birth. Latin for the word water, "Aqua" was chosen as an ironic reference to the then raging controversy over Prohibition – “aqua” being the only legal drink at the time. The Band has never missed a New Year's Day Parade since the time they first stepped onto “The Street” (as Broad Street is familiarly known among those in the tradition); this makes Aqua not only one of the oldest, but also one of the most consistent bands in the Parade. Known for presenting original and creative themes, Aqua holds the record for the highest points ever scored in the New Year's Day Parade with a 99.9 from their First Place finish in 1960.
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5th Annual Gala, “Harmony Sounds" The Zumbyes & Heart of the Valley Chorus April 25, 2009
The Zumbyes (pronounced zoom buys), Amherst College ’s oldest continuous a cappella group, was formed fifty-six years ago. From the outset, the Zumbyes have adhered to the theory that blend is the single most important element of small group singing. Today, the Zumbyes continue to arrange songs with energy, complexity, and significant jazz influence. Every performance is an opportunity to devise new ways to entertain; the shows are famous for their skits, comedy, and audio-visual spectacles.
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The Heart of the Valley Chorus is a local chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Established twenty five years ago, the Heart of the Valley Chorus varies in age from 23 to 75 performing a variety of music: Jazz, Broadway, Vaudeville and Contemporary. The performers are cooks, bankers, teachers, hairdressers, retirees, homemakers, real estate managers, bus drivers, administrative assistants, business owners, and more. Each member brings a unique voice and personality to this warm and friendly group of eclectic women.
4th Annual Gala "The Essence of Country" Don Campbell and the Don Campbell Band
April 26, 2008
Imagine a top-notch singer and songwriter with a vocal style that will remind you of Vince Gill; matched with the instrumental ability of Ricky Skaggs. This will give you an idea of the talent of Maine native, Don Campbell, songwriter, performer, producer, and music businessperson.
Don and his bandmates have opened for the following: Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Randy Travis, Tanya Tucker, Charlie Daniels American Idol winner, Carrie Underwood, Toby Keith. Keith Urban, Ricky Skaggs, Gretchen Wilson, Big & Rich, JoDee Messina, Travis Tritt, and many others.
3rd Annual Gala "Velocity" The Gregory Caputo BIg Band April 28, 2007
The GMEF, in partnership with Phil D. and WIZZ - 1520 AM, was a salute to the big band era featuring Gregory Caputo and his 17pc Big Band in “Velocity”. His professional credits include drumming for the Count Basie and Jimmy Dorsey Orchestras, the Benny Goodman, Gene Krupa and Harry James Big Bands. The concert raised over $21,000.
2nd Annual Gala, “A Concert with Elisabeth von Trapp” April 29, 2006
Elisabeth von Trapp,granddaughter of the musical matriarch, Maria von Trapp, performed with cellist Erich Kory. An audience of all ages was drawn by the promise of her famous name, awed by the haunting beauty of her voice and their hearts were touched forever by the astonishing sound of her unique new music. The second Gala raised over $17,000.
1st Annual Gala “A Magical, Musical Variety Show” April 9, 2005
The first Gala was the result of collaboration with Nick Waynelovich, of Ja'Duke Productions. He was a member of the GMEF Board of Directors. Brainstorming projects for fundraising, the idea of an annual Gala emerged. Nick brought his fantastic band and performers for a “Magical, Musical Variety Show”. The first Gala raised more than $14, 500.
Created on 07/20/2007 06:39 AM
Updated on 02/03/2010 06:03 PM
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