The concert, sponsored by the school's literary magazine and National Honor Society, will collect money to be donated to the Catoctin Community Agency School Services, an organization that assists needy families who have students in the Catoctin High feeder system.

"I think it's wonderful to have students come together and have fun while at the same time raise funds to support local families," said CASS coordinator Debbie Wivell.

The bands paid $25 apiece to compete.

Nine student judges and three faculty judges will choose the winning band, which wins $150. Second place will receive $100, and third place will receive $75. Each band had to audition to play and will get 15 minutes to perform. Each band must perform its own rendition of the Beatles' "I Saw her Standing There."

Project advisor and Catoctin High English teacher Gloria McElwain hopes to get an audience of 400 people to raise the goal of $2,000.

She said students have been active with advertising for the event by contacting community newsletters and making school announcements. She noted the event is unique in that "it gives students who don't normally have a creative outlet a chance to showcase their talent."

Student Government Association President James Robinson, a senior, said he and McElwain have been preparing this project since July. He looks forward to hearing the variety of music that the bands will provide.

The show is at 7 p.m., Friday, in the auditorium of the school, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont. Tickets are $5 apiece. Call the school for more information at 240-236-8100.