On Saturday March 4, the Simply Sinatra concert will take place at Menlo School to benefit Enchanted Hills Camp (EHC). The concert is presented by Steve and Nancy Gill, whose daughter Anne “Annie” Gill has attended the Adults with Developmental Disabilities camp session at EHC. In 1999, the Gills decided to organize the first concert to benefit camp. Steve once directed theater at Menlo School. Prior to COVID-19, Steve, with the help of Anne and former Menlo School students and colleagues, put on 18 concerts which raised over $145,000 for camp. Now the Gills are pleased to bring back the concerts. This year’s concert is a tribute to Frank Sinatra.
We chatted with Steve about his thoughts on putting on these concerts over the years. The interview has been edited for clarity and length.
What are your favorite things about organizing these concerts?
I always loved gathering very talented former students together and was amazed at their ability to put on great shows with just one night of rehearsal. Some came from Los Angeles, and one, an attorney, even flew in from Sweden just to participate in these concerts. While a few continued performing professionally, others, who have busy careers, just loved being onstage again. After COVID it was no longer feasible to get commitments from so many performers because of the chance we would have to cancel, as we had to do for the show planned for January 2022.
How do you choose the theme for each concert?
The concerts are usually dedicated to the Great American Songbook. They are biographical concerts that trace the life and music of a famous composer and/or lyricist. Past composers/lyricists have included: George Gershwin; Cole Porter; Irving Berlin; Kander and Ebb; Rodgers and Hammerstein; and Rodgers and Hart.
What have been your favorite discoveries or lessons you’ve learned as you’ve produced these concerts over the years?
It always amazes me how my ex-students mature intellectually and musically. They also can’t wait to see each other. They have become good friends. Unfortunately, COVID has cancelled the last two concerts. This year my friend [Alex Perez] and I are performing a mini concert revolving around the life and music of Frank Sinatra. It is always a joy to see members of past audiences show up. Some have been coming for 20 years.
What motivates you to continue putting on these concerts?
Personal satisfaction. Creating and choosing the material for the concerts. I am now 80 and this keeps me young. It also serves a worthy cause. And my daughter Annie has loved attending the camp.
What do you love most about EHC?
The people who run the camp: their patience, creativity and friendliness and [EHC Director] Tony Fletcher in particular.
What: Simply Sinatra Concert to benefit Enchanted Hills Camp
When: Saturday, March 4, from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Where: Martin Family Hall at Menlo School, 50 Valparaiso Ave., Atherton, 94027
Cost: A donation of $20 is requested
COVID-19 Safety & More Info
All audience members are requested to wear masks and provide contact information in case the concert is cancelled.
For more information about the concert, please contact Nancy Gill at gillnancyg@gmail.com or 650-948-4648.
