A Sandy Springs native, David Szikman had a vision to create a center where musicians and aspiring musicians could gather and get to know one another. He explained “As a kid, I didn’t know anyone else who played guitar…I wanted to provide a community resource here in Sandy Springs where someone who plays the drums can meet the kid who plays piano or the guitar and connect with the bass player to start a band.”
In its 13th year, Sandy Springs Music, located at 5920 Roswell Road, fills this niche and more. The organization provides lessons, instrument rentals and music accessories for ages four through adults who want to learn or improve on their musical skills. The center offers lessons on guitar, piano, violin/viola/cello, drums, singing/voice, and all the brass and woodwind instruments. Szikman notes, “We’ve taught thousands of kids who have a chance to participate in regular recitals twice a year. I thought it would be great to showcase our talented teachers, so students could see their teachers performing. The idea for a concert was born.”
To help overcome some of the rancor and dissent Szikman saw as a result of the political environment, he decided this year’s concert should be a “Concert for Community,” with proceeds going to a deserving, local charity. A friend suggested he meet with Irene Schweiger, Executive Director of Sandy Springs Education Force (SSEF). “SSEF was a perfect fit, as it is a hands-on organization that will be able to put the proceeds to immediate use to impact local public school students,” Szikman explained. “SSEF is a great organization that deserves recognition and attention. I believe in what they do and wanted to help them increase their reach and impact.”
The concert on May 7th will be held at 5 Seasons Brewing Company, Prado, 5600 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, 30342 from 3-7 pm. It will feature teachers and staff from Sandy Springs Music, including David Szikman, Alex Selph, Jared Bryan, Brian Puleo, Ashley Prince, Meleah Whitmoyer, Mindy Carter, Shannon McKenna, Nic Chambers and Jonathan Lackey. They will perform an array of pop/rock classics and hits, including selections from the Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Katie Perry, Lady Gaga and much, much more!
The event kicks off at 3:15 pm, with performances from the Ridgeview Middle School band, orchestra and chorus, followed by Sandy Springs Music students and the teacher concert starting at approximately 4:15 pm.
The program, which is free for children 17 and under and $10 in advance or $20 at the door for adults, is a family affair. Children can enjoy face painting and create a takeaway craft during the performances.
The “Concert for Community” benefit for Sandy Springs Education Force will be Sunday, May 7th, from 3-7 pm at 5 Seasons Brewing Company, Prado, 5600 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, 30342. Tickets for adults are $10 in advance, and $20 at the door. Kids 17 and under are free. Sandy Springs Music will donate all proceeds to SSEF.
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