Jake Hinton • April 5, 2025
Marcia Forman Band Brings Music to Borrego Springs
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A weekend of community concerts and school outreach from the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association
The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association (BSCCA) brought the community together for a weekend of live music featuring the Marcia Forman Band, a group of San Diego-based musicians known for their upbeat blend of jazz, swing, klezmer, and blues.
The two-part event included a free public concert at the Borrego Springs Library followed by a student-focused performance at Borrego Springs Elementary School the next morning. Both events reflect BSCCA’s mission to present high-quality live music in Borrego Springs through a mix of ticketed performances, one free community concert each season, and free outreach concerts for local students.
Informal Gathering Kicks Off the Weekend
Before the public events, musicians, board members, and friends gathered at a BSCCA board member’s mid-century modern home on the De Anza Golf Course for a casual evening. Guests enjoyed make-your-own pizzas, conversation, and the scenic backdrop of the desert. It was a relaxed start to a weekend focused on music and community engagement.
Standing-Room-Only at the Library
On Sunday, April 6, the Borrego Springs Library hosted a free public concert that filled the community room. The Marcia Forman Band performed a wide-ranging set featuring jazz standards, swing-era classics, and soulful ballads. The program kept the audience clapping, singing along, and enjoying every moment of live, professional music in an accessible setting.
The band featured saxophone, violin, guitar, bass, and vocals—creating a sound that was both musically rich and welcoming to all ages.
This event was part of the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association’s ongoing effort to bring high-quality, engaging performances to the local community—making live music available to everyone.
A Visit to Borrego Springs Elementary
The next morning, the band performed for students at Borrego Springs Elementary School. The set included familiar and interactive songs like Yellow Submarine, Itsy Bitsy Spider, and This Land Is Your Land. The music is carefully chosen to be age-appropriate, engaging, and easy for students to connect with—inviting them to sing along, move, and participate.
During the first song, a kindergartener in the front row raised her hand and said to Marcia Forman, “My heart is dancing.” The comment was clearly heard and perfectly captured the joyful energy in the room.
Elizabeth Renner, a BSCCA board member and retired music teacher, was present to help students understand how to be engaged and respectful audience members—something she has supported across many school concerts over the years.
Having experienced music educators on site is a key part of what makes these outreach events successful. Their presence helps create a positive, structured, and inspiring experience for students who may be seeing live music for the first time.
While this performance took place at the elementary school, BSCCA also coordinates student field trips to the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center during the concert season. These programs are supported by board member Jinny Perrin, also a retired music educator, who helps welcome, educate, and guide students when they attend theater-based performances.
About the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association
Since 1975, the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association (BSCCA) has brought high-quality, live music to the desert through a blend of public concerts and educational outreach. Each season includes five public performances, one free community concert, and four free student concerts—ensuring access to live music for audiences of all ages.
With support from members, donors, and sponsors, this all-volunteer nonprofit continues to enrich the cultural life of Borrego Springs. Whether in the library, on stage, or in the classroom, BSCCA’s mission is to make music meaningful, engaging, and accessible for everyone. Check out the upcoming season!
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