Carson Valley Pops celebrates 25th with concert

The Carson Valley Pops Orchestra will celebrate its 25th anniversary with an April 26 concert that will feature the passing of the baton from conductor C.J. Birch to Dr. Ken Goff.

“The Pops is excited to be celebrating our 25th year of bringing music to the Carson Valley,” said Board President Judy Sheldrew. “We invite the public to join us as we celebrate this milestone in our history, reminisce with old friends, and look forward to the future.”

The orchestra will perform a variety of new selections including “Children of Sanchez” by Chuck Mangione, “Take Five,” “On a Hymn Song of Phillip Bliss,” “Shallow,” and “Journey’s Greatest Hits.”  The orchestra will be led by Goff.

With more than 30 years of ensemble direction experience, Goff has served many community bands, chamber ensembles and orchestras.  He holds a doctorate degree in instrumental studies with a focus on conducting, has been a guest conductor and performer throughout the United States and has held several international residencies.

Featured will be a special performance by violinist and co-founder, Cecelia Yale, who along with her late husband Danny started Carson Valley Pops in 2000.  She will solo accompanied by the string section on “Andante Moderato” by Vivaldi, and arranged by Danny Yale.   Both accomplished violinists, the couple served as conductor and concert master of the orchestra until they retired in 2009.

During the evening, young musicians will be awarded scholarships towards their continuing education. 

The orchestra will also be recognizing board Judy Sheldrew, Margaret Biggs, Kas Monson, and Paula Crout, who have served on the board since 2011.  The 25th Anniversary Concert and Scholarship Presentation is 7 p.m. April 26 at CVIC Hall in Minden. Doors open at 6 p.m.  There will be a no-host bar, cookies, and a raffle. Admission is free. 

The Carson Valley Pops is a nonprofit.  The musicians and board members are all volunteers.