Caitlyn Yount returns for a special performance at 12:30 on Saturday, October 28. She has played at the Orchard at Altapass for the past two years to receive honors credit in her band class at the North Raleigh Christian Academy—requisite is performing at an accredited facility outside of school. This year, she is one of six schoolmates who will be “jazzing” it up on the pavilion stage. She will be joined by her brother, Nathan, two years her junior and recipient of the Quincy Jones Musicianship Award for a jazz band. Also in the “Fellowship” and the same grade as Nathan, will be Evangeline Williams, winner of the director’s choice award for a middle school concert band; Parker Gay, another ninth grader, who placed second chair for trombones in the North Carolina Christian School Association (NCCSA)All-State Symphonic Band; Matthew Norman, a senior and band captain for the school’s marching band; and Noah Rupert, in 10th grade, who has placed in the NCCSA Symphonic band for three years. Together, they play alto sax, tenor sax, baritone sax, trombone, clarinet, piccolo, trumpet, flute, mellophone, French horn, flugelhorn, guitar, and ukulele. They based their band name as a nod to their school mascot–Knights.
For a half hour plus, plan to be entertained and amazed at the new talent with songs that include concert pieces and plenty of jazz with a slight Southern flavor and just a sprinkle of holiday spirit. Six high schoolers on over twice the number of instruments. Orchard visitors are encouraged to watch, listen, and cheer them onto many more future musical experiences.
Located at 1025 Orchard Road near Spruce Pine at mile 328.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Orchard is a not-for-profit working small-batch heirloom apple orchard, music, and educational venue. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday, and open through October 29. Family-/pet-friendly. Wheelchair accessible. For information, please visit www.altapassorchard.org or call 828-765-9531.
From left: Parker Gay, Matthew Norman, Noah Rupert, Nathan Yount, Evangeline Williams, Caitlyn Yount
