Dueling piano event raises money for Montessori school

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — Beneath a spotlight on the Old Town Pub stage, sit two baby grands, back to back, ready and waiting for The Duel’s first request.

The Killer Keyz from Salt Lake City, Utah, will provide a fun-filled evening where classical talent and interactive entertainment collide all for a good cause. The Duel, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday, raises money for the Mountain Village Montessori Charter School in Steamboat Springs.

“They put on such a fun show that’s different than any other fundraisers in town,” said Gillian Morris, one of event organizers. “There’s so many good causes in town to support, so we were really trying to find something unique.”

How it works?

Think of a song for piano players Kirk Garret and Rich Wyman to play, put a tip in the jar and they will play the request, bringing their own special blend to each song.

“They are really amazing,” Morris said. “They can do anything you put out there, from Brittany Spears to Garth Brooks and even Billy Joel.”

The tips as well as proceeds from a silent auction, which is held in conjunction with The Duel, benefit the school. Last year, Morris said $26,000 was raised at the fundraiser, which set the bar for this year’s fundraising goal.

The Montessori Charter School, Morris said, is in the beginning of its third year with about 180 total students. Money raised at the event will go into the school’s operating budget for programs as well as supplies for the students.

“Our goal was to create a fundraiser people want to come back to each year, because it’s so fun,” Morris said. “Whether they have a connection to the school or not, it’s fun night for a good cause.”

To reach Audrey Dwyer, call 970-871-4229, email adwyer@SteamboatPilot.com or follow her on Twitter @Audrey_Dwyer1.