A full house and strong community spirit defined the Gimli High School Concert Band and Jazz Orchestra fundraiser held Feb. 20 in support of the students’ upcoming trip to Niagara Falls, Ont., where they will perform at MusicFest Canada: The Nationals.
Fundraiser organizers Christina Buydens and Jenn Samborski said they were thrilled with the turnout, noting there was not a single empty seat in the venue.
“I hope this shows the community that events like this are possible,” said Buydens. “They bring everyone together and provide a buzz people will remember.”
While total proceeds are still being finalized, organizers said they are proud of the support raised so far. The trip is expected to cost approximately $2,300 per student, with 49 students preparing to travel.
“The community showed up — not only in person but in both prize donations and monetary support that evening too,” said Samborski. “Not only did local businesses and private people donate but countless provincial businesses as well, but it was the number of people coming that cemented the success of the evening.”
Both organizers highlighted the sense of connection throughout the night, describing guests visiting, smiling and taking part in the variety of activities offered.
“The atmosphere overall was thriving,” said Buydens.
Buydens and Samborski expressed sincere thanks to everyone who made the evening possible, especially the student volunteers who assisted with setup and teardown while also performing.
“The evening couldn’t have happened without them,” Samborski added.
