Deaf musicians rock to promote school

From: Tri-Valley Herald, CA - 16 Jan 2003

Band arranges its own music through rhythm and American Sign Language
By Catlin Driscoll
STAFF WRITER

Thursday, January 16, 2003 - FREMONT -- A local band will prove this weekend that rock musicians don't have to be able to hear to put on an entertaining show.

Beethoven's Nightmare, composed of all deaf musicians, will perform Friday and Saturday using live music, dance, mime comedy and audience participation.

Ed Chevy, Bob Hitlermann and Steve Longo will play drums, electric guitar, and other instruments.

The musicians even arrange much of their own music, through rhythm and American Sign Language. Other songs played on tape will be interpreted by the musicians.

"The goal (of the concert) is for the community to know more about deaf people and for hearing people to know more about this school," said Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, a spokeswoman for the school. "This is just a regular program that benefits deaf children so that they can grow up and become regular adults."

"It's important for the general community to know deaf people are not limited and do not lead boring lives," Bourne-Firl said.

Concert proceeds will go to help the California School for the Deaf send its international studies class to Costa Rica.

"(The concert) is just for enjoyment and to show that deaf people can enjoy music and have fun," Bourne-Firl said.

The concert will be at 7 p.m. Friday and 8 p.m. Saturday at the school's Little Theater, 39350 Gallaudet Drive. Tickets are $15 for general admission, and $12 for students, seniors and chil-dren. Information about the school or the concert is available at bfirl@csdf-cde.ca.gov or by calling (510) 794-3707. Band information is at www.beethovens-nightmare.com .

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