Citizen Staff Writer
GABRIELLE FIMBRES
gfimbres@tucsoncitizen.com
Soak in Tucson treasures Saturday as the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus and other musicians entertain under the stars at Sabino Canyon.
The 14th annual Music in the Canyon benefits the Friends of Sabino Canyon’s work to enhance and protect the area, which is recovering from flooding in 2006.
“There’s a beautiful sunset and great music in a gorgeous setting,” said Dave Bushell, president of the volunteer organization.
Last year, the event moved to the spring after it was rained out in December. It was such a success, the group is keeping it in March for now, Bushell said.
Glowing luminarias will lead guests on the quarter-mile trek from the Visitor Center to the Lowell Complex, where the event will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. It is wheelchair accessible.
The Boys Chorus has performed at Music in the Canyon since its inception, said Julian Ackerley, chorus director.
“The setting is extraordinary,” Ackerley said. “The boys’ clear voices ring through the entire area filling the night air with song. It is definitely one of their favorite appearances each year.”
The boys, who will be on stage from 7 to 8:15 p.m., will perform a variety of selections, including contemporary pieces, folk songs, signature western songs and ballads and patriotic classics. They also will demonstrate trick rodeo roping.
In addition to the Boys Chorus, other performers include The Desert Sons, a western trio; Fiddlin’ Foresters, the official old-time string band of the U.S. Forest Service; and Arco, with Dale Clark, performing a mix of adult contemporary, smooth jazz and recognizable favorites.
During the evening, visitors can take a peek at the stars through telescopes set up by the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Organization.
Kids can meet Smokey Bear and listen as a storyteller brings local legends to life.
A silent auction offers resort packages donated by Loews Resorts. Canyon Ranch is also offering a spa day package for two, and other local businesses and artists have donated gift certificates, jewelry, art and home decor. Refreshments will be available.
Dress warmly and bring a flashlight.
Bushell expects as many as 2,500 to attend. He said proceeds will benefit the Friends of Sabino Canyon, the nonprofit group that provides manpower and funds to augment Forest Service work.
Music in the Canyon allows Tucsonans to enjoy the glorious setting at night, serenaded by beautiful music, Bushell said.
“This is more of a giving back to the community. If you’ve never gone, you’ve got to be there. It’s such a beautiful thing.”
Starry sky illuminates Music in the Canyon
IF YOU GO
What: 14th annual Music in the Canyon
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday (coincides with Earth Hour 8:30-9:30 p.m.)
Where: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road
Price: Suggested donation of $5 per person, $10 per family. Parking is free.
Info: 749-1900, sabinocanyon.org