Children's Choir to create magical evening

Children caroling, the warmth of a holiday gathering set against the backdrop of a spectacular river view of a festive and glittering downtown—all the key ingredients for the fifth annual Holiday Sparkles & Spirits! -- a wine and jewelry auction to benefit The Joy of Music School.

On Friday, December 10, everyone is invited downtown Knoxville for a magical evening at the Baptist/Mercy Atrium. Start your holiday shopping early. Enjoy the carolers at the door. Stroll into the rotunda and behold the sparkling view as you partake of the delicious fare and embark on your mission to find that special person a unique gift from a fabulous selection of fine wines and an eclectic assortment of jewelry. While you are treating yourself and your special someone, you are also providing year-round music lessons and instruments for local children who cannot otherwise afford them.

The evening features a special performance by the students of the Joy of Music School Youth Choir. They will be joined by a handful of young soloists from the School as well.

"Our students are always eager to play and sing for this wonderful event," said Francis Graffeo, Executive Director of The Joy of Music School. "They are practicing solos and rehearsing ensembles, getting in the holiday mood."

Beautiful jewelry and wines from around the world will be auctioned to help underwrite the children's studies at The Joy of Music School, a nonprofit organization that opens its doors to kids whose opportunities are limited by circumstance, and allows them freely to enjoy the gift of music, and the many benefits of a music education.

"Joy of Music School students are unique, talented youngsters taught by a volunteer music faculty whose devotion is at the heart of our organization. This event raises funds that ensure we can continue to put 65 teachers and 150 students together in weekly lessons in our building, and provide for everything their musical imaginations can create," said Kurt Weiss, President of the Joy of Music School Board of Directors. "But more than that, we must do all we can do to reach the 100 kids on our waiting list."

Tickets for the event are $75 per person and include drinks and sumptuous heavy hors d'oeuvres. Tickets can be obtained by contacting the School at (865) 525-6806.

The Joy of Music School provides free weekly lessons and instruments to disadvantaged and at-risk children. Young people, who would otherwise do without, learn, practice and play in a nurturing environment. Founded in 1998 the School believes that all young people should have the opportunity to experience and create music regardless of income. 

Published December 2, 2010