By Josh Murray, Rio Americano High School music teacher

Our 31st annual Rio Band Playathon (held Nov. 10) was another smashing success!

The band members had a fantastic time, performed for well over 1,000 people, jammed with middle and elementary school kids and raised money to support our band program. We raised roughly $18,000 for the band program.

It could not have gone better. We even had a surprise visit from the Hot 8 Brass Band from New Orleans!

Our thanks go out to the community for their continued support of our kids.

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Annie Chernich, 12th grader, trombone, assistant director -"Playathon is our yearly fundraiser that truly unifies the band program at Rio. This year was especially exciting because not only was it my last year to participate, but I had the huge task of being the student chair and planner. We had a Harry Potter theme, which allowed for great student enthusiasm and opportunities for decorations and music. Overall, I think it was very successful, and a fun day for all."