DULUTH - It felt a bit like Christmas in downtown Duluth Thursday night.  People gathered for a CD release party at the "Greysolon Plaza."  It marks the debut of "A Christmas by the Lake Volume III."

The music is performed by local bands, artists, and high school choirs.  The money raised goes to help local families of children with life–threatening illnesses.

FOX 21 News went behind the scenes to meet members of one musical group that is making a difference.  The music of  Denfeld High Schools "Solid Gold" show choir  is featured on the CD.  They are currently rehearsing for the upcoming busy holiday season.

Denfeld Choral Director Mark Overland says "Between now and Christmastime, over 15–10 times, we will be presenting these shows around the community."

Mark Overland has been a teacher for the past 25 years and he says it's a joy to work with this group of students.  Overland says "You know kids at this age just plain love to perform."

Overland says when these teenagers heard about the chance to help others with their music, it struck a note with them.  Overland says, "Well as soon as I told our kids about the purpose of it which is to work with ill children in our community, they jumped all over it."

 Denfeld Senior Bree Stolan says, "Because they need it really bad. They need the medicine and the research for their terminal illnesses and it feels good to give back and to know that you are helping someone in the process."

Two of their songs are featured on the CD "A Christmas By The Lake Volume III."  It's an album filled with the work of local artists and the money raised will benefit the "Northern Lights Foundation."

The teens say it feels good knowing they are making a difference in their own way.  Denfeld Junior Patrick Reijo says, "Oh yeah definitely. I feel like I am doing something for my community like on Christmastime, makes me feel good."

Overland actually wrote one of the arrangements in August.  And they started work on the CD in September.  The teens take great pride in being a part of something this special.  And Overland takes great pride in his students and all they have done.

Overland says, "They look wonderful. They sound great and they are the best of the best of Duluth, Minnesota in kids."

The CD is available at Super One Food locations around the Northland.  Last year's CD raised nearly $2,000 for the "Northern Lights Foundation."

For more information call Tracy Lundeen at 218-727-1177.