Claiborne High School arts, under the guidance of Sara Payne, held its first of hopefully many Concert for the Arts Dec. 9 in the school’s multi-purpose room.

The event was intended as a fundraiser for the art, theater and music programs at CHS and featured local artist Lauren Beeler and Knoxville’s Inward Of Eden. Beeler went on the stage first and played her original songs plus a few covers.

When asked about what it meant to be playing at her former high school Beeler said, “Sara helped me to get back into singing and it was an honor to help her with the music, theater and arts program at CHS.” Beeler also took a moment to thank her parents, Barry and Scarlett Beeler, and boyfriend Derek Beistad. Fans of her music can follow her on Instagram at laurenbmusic.

Members of Inward Of Eden took the stage and played multiple songs, including a few of their originals and some awesome covers.

Lead singer of Inward Of Eden, Dusty Owen, said about the event, “I began my interest of music in school and church so it’s a good thing. We love doing charity shows and benefits such as this one and the Humane Society, Wounded Warrior and the Concert for the Smokies; we played plus donated several items to the fire victims.”

The current version of the band formed in 2014 and they are self-described as being just a bunch of friends with the love of music that makes you feel good. Band members include Owen, Shawn Siler, Chris Gaumond, Bill Goodman and Donnie Hall. The band can be contacted through Facebook: Inward of Eden and on Twitter @InwardOfEden or by email at InwardofEden@gmail.com.

The 2017 CHS Concert for the Arts was hindered somewhat by falling snow, cold temperatures and the closeness to the Christmas holiday but still has shown great potential thanks to Payne’s efforts.

“I’d like to thank everyone that volunteered to help, and of course Lauren Beeler and Inward Of Eden for coming out and providing us with great entertainment,” said Payne.