Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Music in Clovis

Clovis is observing Music in Our Schools Week. I'm not sure if it is part of a current national "week" or if Clovis just does their own. It's wonderful to see the recognition given to music teachers here--that doesn't always happen in other school districts. Last week the editor of the paper sent out the question "Which music teacher had the greatest influence on you and why/how?"--something like that. As the week goes on, there are guest columnists every day on page 2 of the newspaper providing an essay on the topic. There was a big double page spread in the paper the other day with the photos of every single music teacher and music assistant (Music assistants? What a luxury!) in the city, along with the name of the teacher/mentor who was their greatest influence. There is a big city-wide concert tomorrow tonight, with the elementary school select chorus, the high school band and orchestra, etc.

Clovis supports a Community Band, which plays for special events throughout the year.

The city hosts an annual Music Festival. This year's celebration takes place from September 4-6, 2008. You can check out the entertainment line up here. The Norman and Vi Petty Rock 'N' Roll Museum will have its grand opening during the Festival. The Norman Petty Studio on 7th Street is known as the home of the "Clovis Sound. " It is where Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison recorded their music.

Twice a week at the community center (okay, it's a Senior Center, but I just don't like to call it that) nearest us there either a jam session or a performance by local musicians--folks who just like to get together and play. We went to the Sweetheart Banquet there (9 couples married more than 50 years attended; the champs of the group were married 67 years!). There was wonderful toe-tapping musical entertainment provided by The Triple L Band from nearby Portales. They are my new favorite group.

We're planning to go to The Friends of Oasis Bluegrass Night on May 31st. It's a fund raiser for Oasis State Park featuring The Triple L Band. Can't wait to hear that great music out under the stars!

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