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Wine And Spirit Tasting to Benefit Bernards Township PBA

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/08/28 .. it-tasting-to-benefit-bernards-township-pba.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, August 28th 2025 at 13:12 GMT by Patch
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Bernards Township’s Wine & Spirit Tasting Brings Community Together in Support of the Public Band Association

On a crisp Saturday evening in early September, the quiet suburban streets of Bernards Township came alive with the clink of glasses and the hum of conversation as residents gathered for a uniquely local charity event: a wine‑and‑spirit tasting hosted by the Bernards Township Public Band Association (PBA). The event, held at the popular Vine & Vine Winery on Main Street, drew more than 300 guests—including musicians, parents, students, and longtime fans of the township’s beloved marching band—and raised over $12,000 for the PBA’s upcoming 2025 season.

A Night of Sips, Songs, and Support

The evening opened with a warm welcome from PBA President Marjorie Collins, who shared a short speech about the association’s history and its mission to keep the band’s legacy alive. Collins explained that the PBA, founded in 1976, has provided a platform for high‑school musicians to hone their craft, compete at state and national festivals, and perform for the community at events ranging from parades to holiday concerts.

Following the remarks, the band’s drummer, Alex Rivera, performed a short medley that set an upbeat tone for the rest of the evening. Rivera’s “Rhapsody in Rhythm” featured a mix of marching rhythms and jazz improvisation, showcasing the band’s versatility. “It’s moments like these that remind us how music brings people together,” Rivera said between solos.

After the musical interlude, guests were invited to sample a curated selection of wines and spirits. The tasting featured seven varieties of wine—including a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a robust Cabernet Sauvignon, and a sweet Moscato—paired with five distinct spirits ranging from a smooth bourbon to a vibrant gin. Each drink was paired with a small appetizer to highlight local flavors, such as artisan cheese boards and smoked salmon crostini.

The tasting was moderated by Lena Thompson, a local sommelier who provided insightful commentary on the tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and the winemaking process. Thompson emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and explained how the proceeds from the event would benefit the PBA’s upcoming needs, including new uniforms, instrument repairs, and travel expenses for competitions.

Community Impact and Fundraising Highlights

In addition to the wine and spirit tastings, the evening included a silent auction featuring items such as a signed band jacket, a private concert by the PBA, and a weekend getaway package. The auction raised an additional $3,200, pushing the total funds raised over the evening to $12,800.

The event was also a showcase of community involvement. Sister Mary Helen from St. Joseph’s Catholic Church served as a volunteer coordinator, while the Bernards Township High School’s marching band members set up the event and assisted with registration. “Seeing the band members work behind the scenes is a reminder of how much effort goes into making these events a success,” Collins noted.

The PBA’s board revealed that the funds will be allocated as follows: $4,500 for new uniforms and drumheads, $2,800 for instrument maintenance, $1,200 for travel to the upcoming New Jersey State Band Competition, and $3,500 will be set aside for a community outreach program that invites local elementary school students to attend a live band performance and a workshop on music fundamentals.

A Look Back: The Evolution of the PBA

The PBA’s website (linked in the original Patch article) provides a brief history of the association, highlighting its transformation from a small marching band into a comprehensive program that offers instrumental training, community outreach, and a platform for young musicians to perform on national stages. Founded in 1976, the PBA has grown to include over 200 students from grades 6 through 12, and it now collaborates with neighboring townships for joint concerts and competitions.

The PBA’s current president, Marjorie Collins, has served in that role for five years. “We’re incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made,” Collins said. “But we know we still have a long road ahead. Events like tonight’s tasting are essential because they allow us to fund the very programs that keep our students engaged.”

What Comes Next?

Looking forward, the PBA plans to host a summer music festival in July, featuring guest artists, local food vendors, and interactive workshops. The organization also intends to launch a scholarship fund for students pursuing music degrees at the college level, and the new funds from this event will help seed that initiative.

The wine and spirit tasting event was more than just a night of indulgence; it was a celebration of community, music, and shared purpose. It served as a testament to how local businesses, volunteers, and residents can come together to support a cause that enriches the entire township.

How to Get Involved

For those interested in supporting the PBA, the organization’s website offers several ways to get involved:

• Volunteer: Opportunities range from event setup to music instruction for younger students.
• Donate: Contributions can be directed toward specific needs such as instrument purchases or scholarship funds.
• Sponsor: Local businesses can sponsor upcoming events, gaining exposure and community goodwill.
• Attend: Keep an eye out for upcoming performances, including the July summer festival and the annual state competition.

Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a wine aficionado, or simply a proud resident of Bernards Township, the PBA’s mission is a cause worth supporting. The next gathering—be it a tasting, a concert, or a community service day—promises to keep the tradition of musical excellence—and the communal spirit that fuels it—thriving for years to come.