Local high school students perform Christmas music, raise money for American Cancer Society

During the past two years local high school students have learned that nothing is out of the question.

During the past two years local high school students have learned that nothing is out of the question. This year 128 volunteers and 22 musicians at two locations will aim to raise more than $12,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Christmas Music for the Cure will have two locations with two bands playing simultaneously during its third year.

One band will perform at Northgate Mall in Seattle and a second band will perform at Hector’s restaurant in Kirkland.

The performances at Hector’s will take place from 4:30-8:30 p.m. on Dec. 19, 20 and 23 and from 2:30-8:30 p.m. on Dec. 21 and 22. The Northgate events will take place from 4:30-8:30 p.m. on Dec. 18-20 and 2:30-8:30 p.m. on Dec. 21 and 22.

“Honestly, I was so excited when they asked me to be a part of their band. They’re practically famous at our school. Everyone knows what Christmas Music for the Cure is,” said high school junior Arko Banik. “After three years they’re still so focused on their goal.”

Two years ago, the band began as a small group of seven musicians seeking new ways to raise money for Cancer Research. Blowing away initial expectations, the band raised over $1,700 playing jazz Christmas music while standing outside Hector’s.

The group involved their schools’ honor societies last year and the band was able to raise over $3,700, breaking its original goal of $3,500.
In the band’s third year, the musicians are returning and want to make their biggest impact yet. They have started their own nonprofit organization and recruited more students. Already, Christmas Music for the Cure has raised over $800 from playing their music at Northgate Mall in Seattle for 12 hours on Nov. 29.

Hector’s restaurant is located at 112 Lake Street South in Kirkland.

Donations can be made to Christmas Music for the Cure online.