Drastics to headline March 31 benefit concert

The Skidmore Drastic Measures, one of the College's coed a cappella groups, will present the second annual "All Pull Together" benefit concert at 8 p.m. Thursday, March 31, in the college's Arthur Zankel Music Center, Helen Filene Ladd Concert Hall. Proceeds from the family-friendly concert will benefit ASPIRe N.Y., the organization that Drastic Measures is supporting this year. 

The concert line-up features a number of Skidmore and Saratoga Springs singing groups. In addition to the Drastic Measures, participants will include Skidmore a cappella and vocal performers the Bandersnatchers, the Dynamics, the Lift Every Voice Gospel Choir, the Sonneteers, and the Treblemakers. Guest performers include Waldorf A Cappella from the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, and Beer Can Chicken, a new quartet from the Racing City Chorus.

ASPIRe N.Y., Inc. is a community-based recreation and activity group for teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorders who are living in the capital region. ASPIRe N.Y. members receive coaching on social interaction skills. The organization offers participants a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities and events to help participants strengthen their skills.

Drastic Measures is Skidmore's only charity co-ed a cappella group. Formed in September 2003 and chartered in October 2004, the Drastic Measures have dedicated every major on-campus performance to a charitable organization. The group has raised money for AIDS awareness, cancer research, mentoring programs, a children's choir in Kenya, and more.

Already this year, the Drastic Measures have raised more than $1,600 for ASPIRe N.Y. through CD sales, performances, and donations. The Drastic Measures' first CD, "Oh Dear, There Goes my Nap!" is available on their web site.

There are no advanced sale tickets for the March 31 benefit but a suggested donation will be taken at the door. The Drastic Measures encourage members of both the Saratoga and Skidmore communities to come and enjoy a night of vocal excitement while helping a good cause.