PUC Hosts Brunch in Support of Treasured Community Recital Hall

Pacific Union College hosted a brunch to benefit Paulin Recital Hall on Sunday, Oct. 22.

Held in a private hangar at the college’s airport, Angwin-Parrett Field, the event featured fine cuisine from Napa Valley chef Chay Blancett and vocal and instrumental music by students, alumni, and faculty from PUC and Paulin Center for the Arts. There was also a silent auction.

Kellie Lind, PUC vice president for alumni and advancement, said the event supported one of the jewels of the Napa Valley and was a resounding success. “It exceeded our expectations and brought in a significant amount of support from generous members of our local community.”

As the nearly 100 guests from the Upper Napa Valley and surrounding areas dined, they were treated to the music of pianists Elena Casanova and Diego Mariano. Gabrielle Cortez and Adelene Bellah-Ramirez both enchanted listeners on their violins, Delia Bennett played her guitar, and vocalist Kaitlyn Nakanishi also performed.

“We are so grateful to our committee, the owners of the beautiful hangar, and others who helped make this event a reality,” Lind said. “Your talents and support have not only contributed to the success of the event but also brought us one step closer to achieving our goals for Paulin Recital Hall.” 

Paulin Recital Hall, situated on the PUC campus, has become more than just a college music auditorium. Over the past 50 years, many professional performers and ensembles have graced the stage and delighted audience members from the larger Napa Valley community and beyond. 

For instance, the San Francisco youth choir, Ragazzi Boys Choir, has rehearsed and performed there. Traditional Chinese zheng performer Pinpin and many other distinguished artists and competition winners have also brought their talents to Paulin. The Golden State Choral Festival, featuring high school choirs across California, is also held in the performance hall each spring.

In addition to music, Paulin has hosted events with guest athletes and scientists and has been home to religious services, lectures, and seminars.

Because the performance hall has such a rich history and is dear to so many, a committee was formed made up of community members, music department faculty, and staff to help in the endeavor to refresh and restore the building. Some of the needs include new seating, updated sound and lighting equipment, and replacing the paint, floor, and carpeting. 

Proceeds from the private brunch and the auctions will support these upgrades. 

PUC’s Department of Music is also part of Paulin. The faculty comprises highly educated and talented musicians, such as an international award-winning lutenist, a talented harpsichordist, and chamber performers.

Rachelle Berthelsen Davis, the music department’s chair, said the event in an airport hanger provided a “unique experience,” a chance for community members to hear music on a nine-foot Steinway concert grand piano, enjoy good food, and support an important cause. 

The remodeling of Paulin Recital Hall will help it “continue to thrive in the 21st century,” she said. 

“With the remodel, we look forward to continuing the legacy of a space that builds community through the arts, be it for the campus, the community, or the larger Napa Valley,” Berthelsen Davis said.

For more information about Paulin Recital Hall and how to support this project, please visit www.puc.edu/giving/fund/paulin-recital-hall.

To learn more about PUC’s Department of Music or events at Paulin Recital Hall, please email music@puc.edu

For more information about Chef Chay Blanchett, please visit kitchenpop.net.