A Musical Valentine for Seniors

Music and love were in the air last Friday when the Dunsmore Elementary Orchestra performed at Mountview Retirement Residence in Montrose.

Before the concert began, students passed out handmade Valentine cards to the seniors. Then the young musicians, under the direction of Dunsmore music teacher Karen Hayhurst, shared their love and talent for music with the audience.

The seniors living at the retirement home were a very appreciative audience. "Out of 120 residents, 100 are here in the audience," said Kim VonWeien, director of activities for the residence. "They love this and appreciate it so much."

Dunsmore Elementary students complete several community service projects throughout the year, one being a food drive during the holidays, said PTA chairperson of philanthropy Sally Foote. She is always looking for more ways students can volunteer in the community.

"I came here with my son's Cub Scout troop," said Foote. When she saw how much the residents appreciated the children, she thought Dunsmore students could do something as well. She contacted Hayhurst, who agreed to prepare a musical program, then called VonWeien.

"We never turn down volunteers," said VonWeien, who added the residents especially appreciate music and dance programs. "A lot of my residents were in the arts."

The youngest performer, first-grader Emily Hayhurst, played the piano like a professional. She attributed her success and ease in front of the audience to her training. "Mommy's my teacher," she said as she skipped backstage.