By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

usic lovers crowded the dance floor at the Crescenta Valley High School cafeteria on Friday night for the annual Jazz Night at the Café dance. Dena Blood was one of the organizers of the fundraiser, which attracted dancers of all skill levels as well as music aficionados.

“Youth and adults filled the room ready to dance, socialize and eat desserts from the famous chocolate fountain,” Dena said.

Guests, who paid on average a $10 admission fee, came from all around the Crescenta Valley.

“I met a Sunland woman at the event who was amazed the jazz band consisted of high school students. She was impressed with the crisp sound and upbeat rhythm of the jazz songs,” said Dena. “Music director Mat Schick expertly draws the very best out of the students.”

There were some familiar faces at the band stands, too.

“We were delighted to have several jazz band alumni, including Suraj Partha, Joseph Stiles, and Collin Kawahara return to play with the band,” said Dena.

The Blood family has been active in the Crescenta Valley High School community for years. Several of their children have played in the school’s bands and Dena and her husband David have been swing dancing since their college days. David took time to teach some basic steps to guests, bolstering confidence and inspiring people to take to the dance floor.

“The Jazz Night at the Café dance really brings families and the community together,” Dena said. “Fathers danced with their daughters, grandparents with small children, and mothers danced with their sons – all creating life long memories.”

The sound equipment, lighting, dance instruction, decorations, music and food were all donated, greatly benefitting the CVHS Instrumental Music Dept., beneficiary of the fundraiser.

  robin goldsworthy