The Sutter Buttes Family Orchestra moved to Gridley in 2014, under the direction of Carol Brown. This year’s spring concert, May 17, will celebrate 10 years of inspiring concerts. 

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - The Sutter Buttes Family Orchestra will share a special 10th anniversary celebration concert on Friday, May 17. The program will feature favorite songs and special guest soloists.

Ten years ago this month, in 2014, Carol Brown moved the Sutter Buttes Family Orchestra to Gridley. Gwen Guitano organized it in the early 70’s, and it stayed in Yuba City for decades, providing musical practice and performances for players of all ages. At one time, the youngest player in the orchestra was four years old, and the oldest was in his 90’s.

Brown and her children participated in the orchestra during those years. Brown said, “It was a great place for our children to learn to play in an orchestra setting with experienced adult players.”

In early 2014, Ingrid Gaston led the orchestra. When she decided to retire, Brown stepped up to keep it alive. She also felt strongly that she needed to move it to Gridley. There were musicians who encouraged her to move it to Oroville, but Brown insisted it was meant to live and grow in Gridley. She held the first organizational meeting in May of that year. Brown said, “I hoped that we could continue to offer that experience for the youth and players of all ages.”

What followed were performances at Daddow Plaza, Butte Theatre, Veterans Memorial Hall, Vierra Park, the Guardian Building, and downtown Gridley for the Christmas parades.

To commemorate the anniversary, Brown sent a list to orchestra members of the songs they had performed over the last ten years, asking them to choose their favorites. “Of course they chose the most difficult songs,” said Brown. The concert program will feature music from Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Josh Groban. Mike and Groverlee Dahl will narrate, and soloists will include Tammy Morrison, Mike Hansen, and Alex Brown.

John Paul Bowers, 18 years old, will conduct “Taiko,” a song which reflects a traditional Japanese drum song. His mother, Maralee Bowers, will be featured in the song with a flute solo.

The concert will be Friday, May 17 at 7:00pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 400 Spruce Street in Gridley. It is free and family friendly. Donations are happily accepted. Bayard Myers will begin playing the piano at 6:35pm, so an early arrival is encouraged.

Brown is already looking forward to their Christmas concert, which will complete their 10th anniversary year celebration. She added, “I am grateful for the many talented, experienced players who make our orchestra possible now, and for beautiful, new friendships. Everyone is wonderful, supportive, and fun.”