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By Mark Huard
FAIRFIELD — This year’s Warming Up for Christmas event on Dec. 1 marked the end of a 17-year career for organizer Stephen Fotter.
The Performing Arts Center rang with holiday cheer and fantastic music from the Fotter family of musicians. It was a bittersweet moment as the members were doing what they love, but it was the last time that they would do it together onstage.
Over his 17 year career, Fotter and his wife, Linda, have gathered everyone together for the performance, and donated the proceeds to charitable causes, so that more people can have shelter, safety and food that they otherwise wouldn’t have. This year, the Fotter’s raised $14,300 for the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter in Waterville and $1,700 for the Shine On Cass Foundation. The Fotters and the community have helped raise more than $150,000 over the years.
The Fotters efforts don’t just come with the Christmas season Warming Up show — they are known for their kindness year round. Some 65 of Fotter’s music students performed in this year’s production, and the couple has been part of the lives of hundreds of children and adults through the years. Fotter lights up the stage with his infectious energy on the night of the performances, but those who know him say that’s a daily occurrence for him. He brings a passion of music and life to so many people, and provides a learning environment for those who want to enter his Benton studio.
Fotter and his wife don’t take any credit for the success of their events, but extend the gratitude to all of the many students staff and band members that surround them. Taking part were also Douglas Moore, Gus Moen, Noah Caret, Dean Bureau, Gary Coons, Neil Amalfitano, Libby Phillips, Jordan Willett, and Shel Sherman, and vocalists Tammy Baker and Mary Ann Quirion.
The Fotters say their only goals are to help others and have left a legacy of benevolence, grace and compassion filled with beautiful music that touches not only our ears but our hearts. And it’s a legacy that will continue to inspire others to live and love just a little bit harder.
PHOTO: Linda and Stephen Fotter at the Dec. 1 Warming Up for Christmas performance at the Performing Arts Center in Fairfield. (Mark Huard/Central Maine Photography photo)
