August 22, 2005 – Sylvia Bierschenk

Music Preparatory Division hosts event to increase scholarships

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - "Giving the gift of music to those who seek it" is the goal behind the Stephen F. Austin State University Music Preparatory Division's scholarship fund-raiser on Saturday, Sept. 10, according to Pat Barnett, division director.

The division, which was founded in 1980, currently offers private lessons and group instruction for newborns through high school aged students. Last year, the division also began offering adult piano classes.

"Last week, the advisory board approved a record $3,500 in partial scholarships for the 2005-2006 school year, but we want to be able to help more families in providing musical training for their children," Barnett said.

"So we're combining our silver anniversary celebration with a scholarship fund-raiser. It's going to be fun-filled experience!" she said.

The evening will begin with a wine and cheese party from 5 to 6 p.m. on the second floor of the Hayter House, where attendees can meet and visit with soap opera star Brad Maule, Hollywood composer and lyricist John Dickson and stand-up comedian Amy Key. Patrons who wish to attend only this portion of the evening can do so by purchasing a $20 ticket.

The party will move to the Grand Ballroom of the SFA University Center where a Silent Auction will open at 6 p.m. and a Texas barbecue buffet will begin at 6:30 p.m. Local talent will provide dinner entertainment.

The main event, "A Piney Woods Home Companion," will begin at 7:30 p.m. Key will emcee the variety show featuring Maule, Dickson and local talent.

Cost for the auction, meal and variety show is $50.

"Or patrons can buy a 'combo ticket' for $65 which includes the wine and cheese party at The Hayter House, all the events in the Grand Ballroom and VIP parking," Barnett explained.

"The money raised through the event tickets and silent auction will all go towards our scholarship fund," Barnett said. "None of our entertainers are charging us anything for their talent, as they believe in the importance of musical training for our young people."

Donors who wish to help provide full-tuition scholarships can do so by participating in the new "Sponsor-A-Child" program. For example, a gift of $150 will cover the cost of one student attending a Kindermusik class, and $800 will sponsor a child in the Piney Woods Youth Orchestra for a full year.

"We are excited about the possibilities this fund-raiser can provide for our programs and area students," said Barnett. "We look forward to another 25 years of providing quality musical instruction."

For more information on the programs offered through the Music Preparatory Division, visit www.music.sfasu.edu/prep or call Barnett at (936) 468-1291.

To purchase tickets for the fund-raiser, call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS. Deadline is Wednesday, Sept. 7.