Major day of music planned for Valley Heights school community

Langton is gearing up for a visit from Professor Louie & The Crowmatix on Monday for some personal instruction for music students, a school performance and a community concert.

Hosted by the Valley Heights Secondary School’s music department’s visiting guest artist program, the event brings professional musicians together with students and ends with a fund-raising concert that supports music programs.

Sara Veldhuis, head of music and visual arts at the school, said her students have been studying the history of Professor Louie & the Crowmatix and their direct connection to the world-renowned rock group, The Band, and its close ties to Norfolk County, including Simcoe’s own Rick Danko.

“These amazing musicians will be working with my music students in the morning,” Veldhuis said in a news release.

“The students will then join the pros on stage for an afternoon performance for the school. The general public is then invited to come out to the evening show at night.”

“It’s been really fun learning about these musicians and getting a chance to play their music,” said student and aspiring musician Ava Reimer,

“And now, we will be playing alongside Professor Louie and his group. We can’t wait.”

Based in Woodstock, NY, the Grammy-nominated Louie Hurwitz, known as Professor Louie, is known for collaborating with The Band over 15 years. He co-produced their last three CDs, and was a member of Levon Helm & The Crowmatix.

Veldhuis says the musicians are known to local audiences who love their high-energy blues and roots shows, along with their personal connection to Danko and The Band.

“Louie performed with Rick on his very last appearance,” said Veldhuis.

“For my students to be able to interact with these Grammy-nominated musicians, who knew the members of The Band, is invaluable.”

Local favorites Amber Banks and Nolan Gibson will also perform at the evening show, playing a solo/duo set to kick off the evening and the night will feature a set of former and current Valley Heights teachers playing as The Woodstock Horns, including Veldhuis, Jon Berec, and Andy Blackwood.

“It promises to be an incredible night of music and memories,” Veldhuis said.

Tickets can be purchased at Cashmere & Cobwebs in Port Dover, Doerksen Country Store in Port Rowan or by calling the school at 519-586-3522, ext 45732 and leaving a message with name, ticket numbers and a phone number

Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door if available, or $10 and $15 for students. A family pass is available in advance only for two adults and two students.

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