The city was alive with music Friday evening as the Lycoming County United Way sponsored Live United in Music, a concert at the Community Arts Center with local musicians performing live at various locations. During the evening’s event, Dr. Oscar W. Knade Jr. was presented with the first annual Live United in Music Lifetime Achievement Award.

In presenting the award to Knade, who had served as the superintendent of the Williamsport Area School District during the 1980s and was instrumental in

implementing the music programs in the district, Ron Frick, president of the United Way, cited Knade’s service to the school district and his dedication to music education and the advancement of the arts, culture and history.

“His wisdom and guidance has benefited not only the arts, but the community as a whole and particularly the Lycoming County United Way,” Frick said.

Following the presentation of the award, Walt Straiton, who conducted the 55-piece Live United “Pops” Orchestra to accompany the featured performer, Michael Cavanaugh, demonstrated Knade’s reach.

Straiton asked anyone who was a current or former student or faculty member of the Williamsport Area School District and professional musicians who had their roots in the school district to stand. Over a third of the musicians on stage stood up in recognition of Knade.

In accepting the award, which was a surprise to the retired educator, Knade ended with a quote from the Greek philosopher, Plato.

“I would teach children music, physics and philosophy; most importantly, I would teach them music, because the patterns of music and the arts are the keys to all learning,” Knade shared.

The event was a part of the kick-off for the United Way’s annual campaign and featured a video highlighting the work of the organization. In his remarks, Frick said that the group hopes to surpass the over-$1.2 million raised last year.

“At the Lycoming County United Way, we depend on our investors to help others,” he told the audience. “Without you, we cannot fight for those who need us most. Together we can make an impact. Together we live united.”