We are delighted each year to have volunteer entertainers stationed along the  5K and 10K routes to entertain our runners. In addition we frequently have volunteers offer warmups for our runners. Meet our 2024 entertainers. (And look for a table at the Finish Fest where you can find additional information about them.)

Britton Middle School Marching Band

The Symphonic Band program at Lewis H. Britton Middle School is in Morgan Hill, California.

Under the astute direction of Manuel Mendoza since the commencement of 2021, Britton’s Band program has consistently showcased unparalleled proficiency and unwavering dedication to the art of music. Revered for their remarkable achievements, including distinguished triumphs at esteemed competitions such as Music in the Parks and the California Music Educators Association, they uphold an illustrious tradition of excellence. From securing 1st place in Marching Band to garnering a commendable 2nd place at the prestigious Universal Studios Hollywood venue, their accolades bear testament to the unyielding commitment of their hard-working musicians. As they diligently prepare for forthcoming competitions, including those within the esteemed California Color Guard Circuit, their collective ethos remains firmly rooted in the principles articulated by their School Motto: Be Responsible, Make Safe Choices, and Show Respect.

The band will be positioned near the start of the 5K and 10K races.

Sandoshin Taiko

Sandoshin Taiko, meaning “dragon’s mountain pass”, was formed in 2000 as a means of blending taiko with various martial art styles. The home of Sandoshin Taiko is the Morgan Hill Buddhist Community Center. Look for the group this year on Diana Ave.

This is a community adult group that welcomes new participants. Bryan Burkhart is the group leader.

www.sandoshintaiko.com

Niseishin Daiko

Niseishin Daiko is a Morgan Hill based, and community-focused Taiko drumming group dedicated to preserving and passing on the traditional art of Japanese drumming to future generations. Their experienced instructors offer a range of classes for all ages. This drumming group of young people at the run are ages 8 through adult. Look for them in their usual location on Elm Street (near the end of the 5k; about half way through the 10k). Website: Niseishindaiko.com Contact is Becky Shingai at 408-460-5659.

Gilroy Ukulele Jam

South County has a cool ukulele culture and Gilroy Ukulele Jam is at the heart of it. They have weekly get togethers and also play for special events  like the Wildflower Run. We have been fortunate to have them join us for several years.

Learn more at www.gilroyukulelejam.com

Live Oak High School Jazz Band

The Live Oak Emerald Regime (LOER) is a pillar of the community in Morgan Hill. Having recently achieved 2nd place overall at the 2023 WBA Grand Championships taking place in Sacramento, the LOER has a storied history of competitive success. The Live Oak Emerald Regime prides itself on the hard work, dedication, and time that its members commit to, rehearsing and performing close to 20 hours a week from mid-August to early December on top of being full-time high school students! They are currently under the direction of Mr. Daniel Alcala, a recent graduate of San Jose State University. The Live Oak Emerald Regime wouldn’t be here without the wonderful support of the community in Morgan Hill, and finds themselves excited at the opportunity to share their performance with the community.

Manawa Maika’i, Ukulele Trio

New to our route this year is this talented trio. Meaning “good times” in Hawaiian, Earl, Mike, and Craig are sure to make you smile with their lively tunes. The music they play is old Hawaiian Slack Key, their folk music. They also play Hapa Haole which dates from the 1900s to the 1940s party music luau music Hula music.

Mike Fair and Julie Bowles, Drummers

Mike & Julie are hand drumming artists who take their love of percussion instruments, such as drums, shakers, songs & culture of African and African-Amercans into middle and elementary schools in Santa Clara County. Mike has been studying “Hand Drumming” since 1994 with various teachers of a variety of percussion instruments. He has performed with several  bands in the rhythm section of Arabic and African centered music and has facilitated drum circles in cities from San Francisco to San Jose.

They are avid supporters of the Wildflower Run because it helps rejuvenate the runners as well as the early morning vitality it imparts upon their spiritual growth through the drums.

For more information, contact: mchlfr4@gmail.com

Adrian Lorona, Electric Guitar

More info to come soon on this talented addition to the roadshow.

Linda Tarvin, Ukulele Player

Linda has been a Wildflower Run course marshal for decades and she always does double duty as an entertainer.  She says, ” I mostly play songs I know from memory so that I won’t have to deal with a music stand. And I make up words to fit the occasion. For example, I might play FIVE FOOT TWO and sing “Here you come, you look great, keep on going , don’t be late, today might be your best time yet” etc.” Watch for Linda as you near the finish line and enjoy the words she sings for you!