Sandy Valley graduate has CD release party in Canton
The Press News, Front Page, August 30, 2001
by Karen Mundy, Press News editor

CANTON-Fans, friends and family were simply delighted on Friday night, as Dianne (Frank) Williams of East Sparta performed at her own CD Release Party. The event, held at the Cultural Center for the Arts, was to introduce her compact disc, "Simplicity."

Accompanied on piano by Brent Schloneger, another local talent from the Canton area, Dianne performed the delightful music from her CD, which features many well known melodies such as "Ave Maria," "Danny Boy," and "Ode to Joy."

The talented Sandy Valley graduate enthralled the crowd with her amazing musical talent and warm, energetic personality.

As she said in her performance, she hoped to win over even those people who were not music fans. I am a fan of all types of music, but flute music was something that had never quite drawn my attention (although I tried desperately to play a flute back in grade school, so I know how difficult the instrument can be). However, once I heard Dianne's beautiful rendition of "Amazing Grace," I was hooked. Since Friday, the CD has been the only CD in my player. In fact, I think I turned it on this morning before I made my morning cup of tea.

Listening to the music on the CD is a very soothing way to start those hectic mornings before school or work. I can also envision curling up in front of a warm fire on a cold, winter night with a good book, a cup of tea, and the sounds of "Clair de Lune" in the background.

Dianne will bring her music to her hometown next month with a benefit concert and dessert at Sandy Valley High School on Sunday, Sept. 16, 3p.m. The night will not only be filled with heavenly music, but will also satisfy the appetite of any dessert lover. Believe me, the desserts at the release party were delicious, especially for anyone who craves chocolate.

All the proceeds from the upcoming event will be donated to the Sandy Valley Academic Booster Club and the Sandy Valley Band Boosters. The concert and dessert will be called "Simple Pleasures: An Afternoon with the Arts."

In addition to the hour-long concert, there will be an art gallery with works by local professional artists and students. Furthermore, the Sandy Valley High School Literature Department is planning to include readings of a few famous poems and writings.

Helping to make the event a success are several local businesses, including Grinders-Above and Beyond in Dover, Steineck's Bakery in Mineral City, Lily of the Valley Florist in Waynesburg, Simply Cinnamon in Bolivar, and Giant Eagle of Bolivar. There will also be a drawing for prizes.

Tickets can be purchased at the high school office and at the Sandy Valley concessions stand at football games.

Dianne's CDs are currently being sold at area businesses such as Valley View Pharmacy, Borders Books on the Strip, Body and Soul Gift Shop in Canton South and Corky's Café in Jackson Township.