THE PLAY-A-THON IS BACK!
On January 10, 2026 the El Cerrito High School Bands will participate in a 9-hour music marathon aimed to raise $15,000. Presented by the El Cerrito Band Association, the Play-a-thon will provide funds for new instruments, equipment, and support various musical activities that include band festivals, clinics, coaches, and travel opportunities. The Play-a-thon will include musical activities featuring the ECHS Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Workshop, and Gaucho Band. Highlights include sessions for middle school band students, a beginning band session for adults led by our students, an outdoor concert, and an evening concert in the Performing Arts Theater. All activities are FREE!
MAKE A PLEDGE, CLICK HERE!
Show your support by making a pledge at the following levels:
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- Fan Level: $25
- Donor Level: $50
- Friend Level: $100
- Patron: $250 and above
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
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- 7:00 AM: Open Rehearsal with Jazz Workshop
- 8:30 AM: Open Rehearsal with Jazz Lab
- 10:00 AM: Sight-reading Session with Wind Ensemble
- 11:30 AM: Elementary School Band Session with Symphonic Band
- 1:00 PM: Conduct the Gaucho Band!
- 2:30 PM: Middle School Session with Wind Ensemble
- 4:00 PM: Concert: El Cerrito Area Band Festival featuring ECHS Bands, Korematsu Middle School Symphonic Band, and combined Elementary School Intermediate Band!
- 6:00 PM: Concert: Arnie Sainz Quartet: opening with Jazz Ensemble
ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL SESSIONS!
The Elementary and Middle School Band Sessions are the highlights of the event, intended to bring together intermediate-level students from Harding, Fairmont, Madera, Kensington, and Mira Vista elementary schools and Korematsu Middle School to work alongside the ECHS Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. Both sessions take place in the ECHS Theater and is FREE to all students participating in their elementary and middle school band programs that have at least ONE year playing experience on their instrument. Parents are also welcome to attend!