Nora Walkiewicz (286)

There are many nooks and crannies within Central’s halls, home to clubs, offices, gumball/candy machines, and more. The middle hallway on the third floor is home to the music department’s annual fundraiser. During their lunch period, students can stop by and place an order for one of the many different options for ramen. So what is behind this fundraiser, what does it do, and how does it work?

After reaching out and talking with Nate Tom (283), president of the orchestra, Mandy Jiang (283), co-director of the string orchestra, and Mr. Blazer, head of the Music Department, I got answers to these questions. The fundraiser is a year-long event that has “become a way for the three branches of the music department to unify through fundraising,” as the volunteers are from all three sections of the music department: the band, choir, and orchestra. This year, the fundraiser is geared towards a department-wide trip. Originally, students of the music department could come in to volunteer by using a sign-in sheet that was created by orchestra secretary Avery Ingram (283). Later, the addition of a procedural list was able to ensure volunteers were present. The behind-the-scenes of it all is pretty simple: there is one main water dispenser and several electric kettles. Every period, a group of students comes in. They’re assigned different jobs like a cashier who is in charge of money and orders, a cook who makes the ramen and serves it to the customer, and the rest of the staff fills up the kettles. On Thursdays, you can find them serving ramen and hot chocolate, and on Fridays, they offer pretzels with cheese cups. Every year the department continues its tradition of fundraising that is not only geared towards the end-of-year trip but even smaller events throughout the year. This tradition has continued through years of using teamwork skills and dedication. Therefore, make sure to stop by and support Central’s music community!