Burbank High School holding fundraiser for its choir

IF YOU GO

School Concert

What: Concert fundraiser for Burbank High School show choir, in Tickets

When: 7 p.m. Saturday.

Where: Burbank High School auditorium, 902 North Third Street, Burbank.

Tickets: $10- $25.

Running a nationally recognized show choir like the award-winning program at Burbank High School takes talented students, dedicated educators, a grueling rehearsal schedule - and money.

But in an era of massive state budget cuts to education, money for such programs is scarce and even donations from the public have gotten tougher to collect in a down economy. | Related Story: Love "Glee"? The real thing is happening in Burbank

To maintain the quality of the school's show choir that many say inspired the hit television series "Glee", the school has hosted a series of fund-raising concerts that ends with tonight's performance.

"People will see the most amazing professional performance out of high school students, that they could ever imagine," said Brett Carroll, Burbank's musical and vocal director.

"And they'll also be able to support a program that has literally changed hundreds of kids' lives."

Burbank's five different show choir teams are ranked among the best in the nation, having won national titles for the last four years and statewide championships for the last seven.

Carroll explained that running an elite program, that every year recruits some 160 students, takes much more funding

than the Burbank Unified School District could even provide.

"Annually, we spend over $250,000 on everything from costumes, musical arrangements, choreographers and buses," Carrol said.

Unfortunately Burbank Unified is only able to provide the program about $2,000 a year.

This year, with the economy still struggling, Carroll said raising funds has been more challenging.

"We're operating in the red," Carroll said.

Burbank High's principal Bruce Osgood stressed that a lack of funds would never get the program cancelled, however it would force the school to downsize it.

"We are trying to raise this money so we can continue to provide the highest program possible.

"This program has taught hundreds of students dedication, hard work, commitment... these are skills that they'll take with them through life. It's a very special program."

For more information on Burbank High School's show choir or to purchase tickets for tonight's show visit http://www.bhsvocal.com.

Source: http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_18107519?source=rss

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