Blazer Jazz Band Strikes a Chord With ‘Jazzentine’s’ Fundraiser

Blazer Jazz Band Strikes a Chord With ‘Jazzentine’s’ Fundraiser

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

Love is in the air—and this year, it comes with a smooth jazz soundtrack. On February 16 at 6:30 p.m., the Blazer Jazz Band invites the community to celebrate Valentine’s season in a unique and meaningful way with “Jazzentine’s,” a fundraising dinner and silent auction hosted at Paul G. Blazer High School’s gym lobby. Designed to be welcoming for couples, families, and friends, Jazzentine’s promises an evening filled with music, food, fun, and heartfelt community support for a great cause.

Jazzentine’s is the result of creativity, collaboration, and a genuine love for the Blazer Band program. According to Megan Shoup-Wells, one of the event’s co-organizers, the idea has been a labor of love in the making. “Our director Roger Doss and the band boosters—a volunteer organization of band parents and guardians—are always trying to think up fun, new events to raise funds to support our band program,” she shared. The concept for Jazzentine’s was originally workshopped last year, but plans were sidelined due to weather. “So, we are excited to see this event come to life this year!”

While the Blazer Jazz Band has hosted fundraising dinners before—the most recent being in 2023—this event marks a special milestone. Jazzentine’s is the first Valentine’s-themed fundraising dinner and silent auction hosted by the Blazer Band, adding a festive twist to a tradition that already brings people together.

Guests attending Jazzentine’s will enjoy far more than just a night out. The event features live jazz music performed by the talented Blazer Jazz Band, setting the mood with a mix of smooth, lively selections throughout the evening. As the music plays, guests can sample a variety of appetizer-style tapas and indulge in delicious desserts, all prepared by dedicated band boosters who have poured time and care into the menu.

Adding to the excitement is a silent auction featuring more than 40 items, all generously donated by local businesses. From unique experiences to must-have items, the auction reflects the strong support the Blazer Band receives from the community. Guests can browse, bid, and maybe even walk away with a great find—all while supporting student musicians.

For those who love capturing memories, a selfie booth will be set up so attendees can snap a fun photo or two to commemorate the evening. Whether it’s a date night, family outing, or gathering with friends, Jazzentine’s offers something for everyone.

Tickets are affordably priced to encourage broad community participation. Presale tickets are available for $7 per person or $25 per household (defined as four or more people). Tickets purchased at the door will be $10 per person or $35 per household. A presale ticket link is available in the discussion section, making it easy to plan ahead.

All proceeds from Jazzentine’s directly benefit the Blazer Band, specifically helping fund their upcoming trip to the Music in the Parks Festival at Kings Island. This festival is more than just a performance opportunity—it’s an educational experience where the band will showcase their talent alongside other ensembles, perform for professional adjudicators, and receive evaluations and ratings. The experience concludes with time in the park and an awards ceremony recognizing the students’ accomplishments.

For Shoup-Wells, the heart of the event lies in the students themselves. “Our band members are all hardworking and very talented, so any chance to watch them perform at an event will always be the best part,” she said. She also emphasized how meaningful the planning process has been, adding, “It has been so uplifting to see all the community support for The Pride of Blazer while organizing this event!”

Shoup-Wells has a personal connection to Jazzentine’s, serving as co-organizer alongside fundraising chair Kelli Shytle. She also has a special reason to be proud that night—two of the performing musicians, Aaden and Molly, are her own.

Jazzentine’s is more than a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of music, community, and young talent. With its welcoming atmosphere, lively jazz performances, delicious food, and purpose-driven mission, the event offers a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s season while supporting local students.

Mark your calendars for Feb. 16, gather your favorite people, and head to Paul G. Blazer High School for an evening where love, music, and community truly take center stage.