Community Choir Raises Funds for Academy Building
Community Choir Raises Funds for Academy Building
Silver Creek Heritage Choir Performs
On the evening of Tuesday, April 6, the Silver Creek Heritage Choir held an Easter concert featuring many numbers that told of the resurrection and ministry of Jesus Christ. The event was held in the Academy Building. Adjacent to Snowflake High School, the Academy building was the original Snowflake High School building. The event was held as a fundraiser to renovate the building.
The Silver Creek Heritage Choir is an auditioned ensemble for adults 18 and older. This choir is offered through Snowflake/Taylor Recreation and Parks. Since its formation, the choir has had 7 total performances. This was the 3rd performance in the Academy Building.
The Silver Creek Heritage Choir is directed by Ben Peterson. Peterson is a music teacher at Nikolaus Homestead Elementary in Show Low. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from NAU in Music Education, Peterson spent time as a member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square before moving back to his hometown of Snowflake.
The Academy Building holds personal meaning for Peterson. He tells of his personal experience in helping with the renovation:
“Around 20 years ago my father, Quince Peterson, was contracted to remove several layers of asphalt shingles and several layers of wood shingles, replace the roof deck and restore the soffit and eaves of the Academy Building. This was an initial effort (to restore the building) before any of the front windows were replaced or elevators were installed. I have not forgotten the experience of working with that crew all summer, and the completion of the renovation has been on my mind ever since. So much work has been accomplished by several individuals who care about the building, but it's disappointing to see the Academy Building unfinished, unused, and forgotten by the community.”
When asked why he formed the Silver Creek Heritage Choir Peterson stated:
“I have been asked a few times in recent years to organize community choirs, and people always seem disappointed when the choir stops practicing for a season. Starting a choir with a community service mission seemed like a rewarding project. I knew people would be excited to participate, and feel commitment to the cause of supporting renovation. With permission from Brian Richards, and support from Cathy McDowell and Katie Melser, we have performed fundraiser concerts 3 times in the Academy over the last 18 months. Snowflake School District, and Laura Shumway have graciously hosted our choir in her Jr. High Music building for rehearsals. The community wants to see the building preserved and put to public use. It's easy to feel that shared desire when you see the turn-out of our audiences, and hear the singers as they work to support this cause.”
The choir accepted donations for the concert and was able to raise $1,672 towards the renovation. The Academy Building, built in 1913, has sat vacant for nearly 20 years. In those years, many efforts, donations, and grants have gone toward its renovation. Major projects including a new roof, new windows, an elevator and ramp, structural I-beams and fire sprinklers have been completed. Nearly $1 Million dollars have been invested in the renovation but much is still needed for its completion.
The Academy Foundation has headed the renovation efforts. Previous fundraisers include quilt shows, book sales and boutique markets to name a few. To learn more or to donate, visit the Foundation’s website at http://www.snowflakeacademy.com/.
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