By JESSA PEASE / Staff Reporter

PELHAM— This Valentine’s Day, Pelham High School’s jazz band is providing the perfect atmosphere to celebrate with live music, a multicourse meal and silent auction Feb. 12 at the Pelham Civic Complex.

“We wanted to create a community event that would create an opportunity for people to celebrate Valentine’s Day here in Pelham with a multicourse meal,” said Justin Ward, director of bands at PHS.

Ward said people frequently express how much they enjoy the jazz band, so he has been looking for an opportunity to showcase them at an event. At a previous school, Ward has hosted a similar event, so he decided to throw a more involved gala at Pelham.

Pelham’s jazz band will perform several jazz tunes, along with Valentine’s themed music from artists like Bruno Mars and Stevie Wonder. Samford University’s jazz band will also perform at the gala.

“Its definitely centered around the student,” Ward said. “This is an opportunity for them to perform for the community and create a community event around the band program, which is really one of our goals.”

He said in addition to providing a nice night out in Pelham for residents, it also raises awareness and funds for the band program.

There are several donated items available through the silent auction, and Ward said many people have already reserved their spot at the gala. With attendance numbers growing, Ward said the players are becoming more excited to perform.

“It’s been fantastic,” he said. “We already rehearse music throughout the year…we just kind of decided we would pick love and Valentine’s Day themed songs that span different genres. They’ve really enjoyed that. It’s given them a window to play all types of music.”

The event is Friday, Feb. 12 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Pelham Civic Complex.

To purchase tickets, visit Pelhamcityal.csiepay.com. For more information, contact Tom Hall at 365-3877 or tfhall3877@yahoo.com.