Tribune/Debra Reid - A blushing Salon-7 stylist is serenaded by members of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity. "Valentine-O-Grams", performed by UNR students, raise funds for local music programs.
Tribune/Debra Reid - UNR Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity members Mike Baraket and Josh Strickland rehearse for their annual "Valentine-O-Gram" music benefit.
It was a last minute rehearsal by Xi Delta, the UNR chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, a national music fraternity. The men deliver singing "Valentine-O-Grams," an annual benefit for local music students of all ages. Recipients are surprised with vintage romantic tunes like "Earth Angel," "Afternoon Delight" and "My Girl". Depending on the location, a donation of at least $15 is required for each sweetheart serenade.
"We help fund events and music programs, like if a school needs an instrument, instrument repairs or rentals," Sinfonia member Jeff Shelfo said. "Reeds, valve oil, drum sticks, all the little things."
The small fraternity of about eight students raised about $800 last year, Shelfo said.
Other musical fundraisers are held throughout the year. The program funds the Sinfonia Education Foundation, the Larry G. Holloway Scholarship for incoming freshman as well as local school music programs.
Anyone, not just music majors, can join the fraternity.
"The only requirement is that you love music," Shelfo said.
On Friday, the tuxedoed singers serenaded a surprised audience, and one blushing hair stylist, at Salon-7 in Reno. The stylist's boyfriend, a Sinfonia member, was fondly rewarded with kisses.
The serenades continue today, St. Valentine's Day. To donate or for more information, call Shelfo at 830-1304.
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