Local high school students will get a chance to display their musical talents while onlookers enjoy craft beer and tacos.
The Annual High School Band Showcase returns to B2B Garden Brewery this month after being on hiatus last year because of the pandemic.
B2B promotions manager Alicia Stelzer said the company started its yearly fundraising series at its B2B location in Uptown a few years ago. During the pandemic, owners decided to close the Uptown location and shifted the showcase to its brewery on Comanche. The location has a large, secluded patio behind the building. It has grass, trees and a covered area in the center, making it an ideal space to host the high school bands.
“Now, more than ever, Albuquerque’s youth is in dire need of opportunities to shine in the real world,” she said. “These students have lost an entire school year, two summers, and the chance to do what they love in front of their community.”
Every Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. beginning Oct. 17, the brewery will host members of a different high school band. B2B will donate $200 to each school program, and patrons are encouraged to provide tips to the young musicians during their performance.
Guests will be allowed to bring blankets and lawn chairs. B2B will have its full menu featuring tacos, tortas and appetizers, as well as beer and wine-based cocktails.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Stelzer said. “It helps build up their self-esteem, and it showcases all the hard work they’ve done.”
The schedule is:
Oct. 24: Sandia High
Oct. 31: Albuquerque High
Nov. 7: Highland High
Nov. 14: Manzano High
Nov. 21: No show scheduled.
Nov. 28: Cibola High
Dec. 5: St. Pius High
The brewery is at 8338 Comanche NE. Call 505-407-2046 or visit b2babq.com/gardenbrewery for more information.