On April 27, Lake Oconee Academy’s High School Jazz Band brought energy and talent to the community as they performed at the grand opening of Surcheros, bringing a vibrant, live soundtrack to the grand opening celebration.
The performance gave students valuable, real-world experience while highlighting the strength of LOA’s Fine Arts program. From upbeat jazz selections to playful moments— like students holding their instruments to their mouths as a neighbor played the notes—the performance brought high energy and creativity to the celebration, delighting the hungry crowd.
Nearly 20 LOA Jazz Band students participated in the event, sharing their talents with the many gatherers who joined in the opening celebration. Following their performance, students were treated to lunch by the new restaurant owners, adding to the festive and welcoming atmosphere of the day. “It was really fun to be a part of the grand opening,” said LOA Band Director Courtney Pilgrim. “Opportunities like this allow our students to connect with their local community while, at the same time, doing what they love.”
Students from Mrs. Harris & Ms. Wentworth’s classes also attended the grand opening. Focusing on life skills and development, these high schoolers practiced ordering food, interacting with staff, paying for their meals, and navigating a public setting, an important part of their curriculum centered on independence and community engagement.
“It was a perfect chance for our students to be part of the community and support their peers,” said Mrs. Sheryl Harris, student support services teacher at LOA. “Experiences like this allow them to practice important life skills in a real-world setting, which is such a meaningful part of their learning.”
For the student performers, the experience was one they’ll not soon forget. “My favorite part was getting to perform off campus, right here in our community,” said keyboard player and senior Noah Colby. “It’s different from playing on a stage or at a concert; we were in a place we actually will go to, playing for people we see every day, and that made it really meaningful.”
That same sense of excitement was shared by fellow musicians. “I loved being there and playing for everyone,” said drum player and senior Jaylen Greene. “It was exciting to be part of something in the community and see people enjoying our music.” After the performance, students returned to campus, balancing both their academic responsibilities and performance opportunities like true professionals.
Lake Oconee Academy is proud to provide experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom, encouraging students to engage, contribute, and take pride in being active members of the community they call home.