Students, parents, alumni, and members of the community filled the seats of Far Brook School's Moore Hall last Sunday afternoon in anticipation of a musical performance and some Valentine's Day sweets.

"Romance in the Air, an Afternoon of Chamber Music & Chocolates," delivered just that. Featuring Far Brook music faculty and distinguished guests, the concert was a delightful showcase of distinguished musicians on the piano, violin, clarinet, viola, cello, and fiddle. Pieces from composers such as Claude Debussy, Frédéric Chopin, and Maurice Ravel were masterfully performed by professional musicians—some members of the school faculty, some the parents of students and some musical educators and performers from the area, including three members of the New Jersey symphony orchestra.

"It's important for the staff to get an opportunity to play," said F. Allen Artz, the director of music at Far Brook. The performance was also a chance for the staff to raise money for the school's instrument fund.

Erasmia Voukelatos, the recital coordinator and director of music at the lower school, wowed the audience with compositions  on the piano from Debussy, Ravel, and Shumann. According to Voukelatos, a recent donation from a former student inspired the music department to give the guests a chance to donate $20 toward purchasing instruments for the school.

After the performance, the guests and musicians mingled over Valentine's Day-appropriate refreshments (the spread included homemade chocolate-covered strawberries, special chocolate bars donated by a Far Brook alumnus and more).

The afternoon was coordinated by a committee of faculty volunteers, who were quick to comment on the success of the day. From the student volunteers who worked backstage to community members looking for a relaxing Sunday afternoon, everyone seemed to enjoy the performance. And the chocolate only made it that much sweeter.