Rockin' Rosin: Students Join Violinist Aaron Meyer on Hood River stage

Aaron Meyer in the forground as Maili and Solana Doty concentrate at the Best Western in Hood River on Dec. 8, 2024.

What an Incredible Day at the 13th Annual Rock the Holidays Concert with Aaron Meyer, Concert Rock Violinist

Photos and Story from Caroline Grew, Exec. Dir. of United Way of The Columbia Gorge:

Aaron Meyer

The Dalles, Ore., Dec. 21, 2024 — On Sunday, December 8th, we kicked off the holiday season with an unforgettable day at the 13th Annual Rock the Holidays Concert with the phenomenal Aaron Meyer and his band. Two spectacular performances took place at the Best Western PLUS Hood River Inn, and from the very first note, the energy was electric!

Aaron and his virtuoso band brought together a thrilling mix of Christmas classics and beloved rock ‘n’ roll favorites, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere that had everyone dancing in their seats.

A true highlight of the day was the incredible local student musicians who joined Aaron and his band on stage. Their passion, talent, and energy added an extra special touch to the event, making the celebration even more memorable. The Aaron Meyer Concert Rock Academy continues its mission of positively impacting the lives of students, families, musicians, and educators through inspiring music education opportunities and performances.

Once again this year, the generosity of our incredible community shone brightly as local members stepped up to sponsor families and children to attend the Kids’ Concert. Thanks to their support, over 150 tickets were distributed to local schools, giving students a special opportunity to experience the magic and joy of live music.

Picture from left to right front row:  Anders Daly, Skylar Nelson, Caleb Sanford (cello), Noah Sanford, Maili Doty, Solana Doty, Kaiya Doty, Adah Buckwalter

2nd Row:  Gabe Adams, Jean-Pierre Garau, Jeramy Burchett, Aaron Meyer, Gordy Sato, Rebecca Decker, Gene Houck, Christian Kinyon

We are deeply grateful for the kindness and support of everyone who made this possible. Your contributions provided a memorable holiday experience for so many students, creating lasting memories and smiles.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate the season and make this event a success. If you were there, thank you for being part of such a special and joyful day. And if you missed it, don’t worry, we will be back next year to Rock the Holidays all over again!

Thank you to our incredible sponsors for supporting this year’s Rock the Holidays Concert:

• Best Western Plus Hood River Inn

• Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital

• Hood River Distillers

• Curtis Homes LLC

• Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles

• Crown Point Insurance

• Columbia Gorge Dance

• Hood Technology

• Gordy Sato

• Sheppard’s

• Julie Gilbert from Copper West Real Estate

• Tucker Road Animal Hospital

• Ron Cohen and Christie Smith

• Dave and Tine Meriwether

• Thomas Torok from Country Financial

• Mike and Angela Schock

Your support made this year’s Rock the Holidays an event to remember. We’re so lucky to have such a strong and supportive community! 

Until next year, keep the holiday spirit alive and rock on!