Discovery musicians host sumptuous spaghetti, cool groove
BY GREGG L. PARKER
Butter the bread sticks and pat your feet. It’s time again for the annual spaghetti dinner and evening of entertainment at Discovery Middle School.
Discovery’s music department will host its major fundraiser on Nov. 18 from 5 to 9 p.m.
“The dinner has become the biggest and most productive event of the year. It has become a Madison tradition,” Discovery director of bands Johnny Nash said. More than 1,000 people usually attend.
“Because of past successes, we’ve continued to build our musical library, add special equipment and give our students every advantage to excel,” Nash said.
Band and choral booster parents transform the cafeteria into an Italian cafe experience with special lighting, banquet tables with linens and fine music.
Terranova’s Italian Restaurant will cater the meal. “Terranova’s food is fantastic. They do a tremendous job in preparing the dinner — all fresh,” Nash said.
Many Discovery band and chorus students are preparing for all-state contest. “The ensembles have worked to learn new music and have already performed this year,” Nash said. Stuart Tankesley is chorus director.
The Discovery Concert Choir, flute choir, drum line and jazz band will perform, and the Jazz All-Stars professionals are returning. “They are friends of mine that are donating their time and expertise to benefit our students,” Nash said. “They bring a wealth of talent and energy.”
The All-Stars include Marcus Pope, drums; Nick Walker, bass; Steve Motz, saxophone; and Mike Thomas, trumpet.
Along with Terranova’s, sponsors are Publix, Costco, Robbins Music Center, Graphic Publishing and TLS Lighting. Event coordinators are Donna Elegante and Cindy Allen.
“The music program’s financial success depends on this event,” Nash said.
Tickets are $15 and available from band and choir students and at the door. Seating times are hourly from 5 to 9 p.m. For children five years or younger, plates are $5.
For more information, send e-mail to dmke@knology.net.
