On September 17, a voice recital was held at Central Lutheran Church in Eugene, Oregon, to benefit First Book-Eugene/Springfield. The concert was performed by Samuel Lowry, Tenor, (formerly of Eugene) and Andrea Edith Moore, Soprano, now both of New York City.

For 90 minutes Sam and Andrea lifted their voices to the music of Handel, Verdi, Schubert, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, and others. They sang of love and beauty, nature and dancing, even an Elf King and a Jabberwocky. Their songs, arias and poems were performed in German, Russian, Italian and English. The audience of approximately 175 — ranging in age from infant to 91 years — was enthralled.

Helen Walton of Relief Nursery, a First Book-Eugene/Springfield recipient group, spoke to the audience about how First Book benefits local children.

The event itself raised over $2500 — but donations are still coming in and the total is nearing $3000. In other words, Sam and Andrea’s gift of song will translate into well over 1000 new books for children in literacy programs in Lane County. A fine idea became a generous reality on a perfect afternoon.

Submitted by: Catherine Smith and Becky Lowry
Eugene/Springfield Board LAB 6