Hear some high-grade performers

Educators take to the stage for Spotlight on the Teachers

Music teachers from across Lincoln County will be earning extra credit when they step on stage for the latest Spotlight on the Teachers concert this Sunday, Feb. 2.

This year’s concert, “The Joy of Music” will be presented at the Newport Performing Arts Center, performed by members of the Lincoln County District of the Oregon Music Teachers Association and their guests.

“The concert series has been a part of the Oregon Coast calendar for over 25 years and this year we have made a major shift to only one concert a year,” said Jessie Treon, one of the originators of the concert series. “This new concert will include music in any style, classical, popular, jazz, show tunes or rock and roll, whatever gives each performer enough joy to perform it. Our performers have always chosen their own pieces giving the program a new twist at every show.”

The concert is a benefit for the association’s scholarship fund, used to support students who have trouble paying for lessons, books or festival fees. The fund has also contributed to other local music programs such as the Newport Symphony Orchestra Youth Symphony and music programs within other programs such as Neighbors for Kids.

Over the years, the concerts have always had an element of surprise. Seasoned veterans this year include Ramona Goddard, Ginger Hodge, Donna Olson, Jessie Treon and Rita Warton. Concert guests include well-known faces and new ones, including pianists Carol Wolfe and Milo Graamans, cellist Charmaine Leclair, singer Gidget Manucci and a new vocal group, Sea Star Sisters.

“By opening to all styles of music we have ended up with composers from Bach to Rachmaninoff to Freddie Mercury,” said Rita Warton, district treasurer. “It will be dynamic, interesting, and, as always, a fun afternoon.”

Sunday’s concert begins at 2 pm at 777 W. Olive Street. For more information, go to omta-lincolncounty.org or call 541-961-0959.