If the idea is to raise funds for a good cause - such as a high school music program - why not consider a soiree featuring a tribute band?

That's the idea behind "Keep Music Education Alive," an event Friday in Groton's Fitch High School Auditorium starring The Beatlemania Stage Show. This much-celebrated Fab Four tribute act includes musicians who've performed and written with artists such as Todd Rundgren, Hall & Oates and Carly Simon. The presentation - including vintage instruments and costumes - covers John, Paul, George and Ringo in all stages of their career, from "All My Loving" on "The Ed Sullivan Show" to the air-conditioning-hum fadeout on "A Day in the Life."

A bonus: Fitch music students will be performing live with Beatlemania musicians during the performance.

Oh, and all proceeds will be used to support the Fitch High School Music department - an outfit that enrolls students in marching band, jazz ensemble and music theory programs.

- RICK KOSTER

Keep Music Education Alive, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Fitch High School Auditorium, 101 Groton Long Point Road, Groton; $25, $35, $45; 1-800-316-8559.