The Excellence in the Community series concluded its partnership with The Covey on November 2 with a performance titled Unforgettable with Love: The Music of Natalie and Nat "King" Cole. Featuring Kimberly "KAZ" Woods and Satin Swing, the concert served as the final Excellence in the Community performance presented in collaboration with The Covey, marking the end of a significant chapter in Provo's performing arts history.
The Excellence in the Community series was founded in December 2005 by Jeff Whiteley with the mission of bringing Utah's finest musicians to prominent stages. Whiteley aimed to provide local artists with high-level performance opportunities while ensuring audiences could experience live music regardless of financial circumstances. Under his leadership, the series hosted more than 1,400 concerts.
Following the passing of Whiteley, his wife, Lori Decker-Whitely, has continued to lead the organization and maintain its mission. The partnership at The Covey has allowed audiences to discover diverse musical acts, ranging from Callanish and Mariachi Guzman to the Will Baxter Band and Nola Richardson.
Local musicians have noted the impact of the series on the regional music scene. Utah State University professor Corey Christiansen stated that Excellence in the Community helped raise musical standards in Utah by treating performances as significant events. Pianist Dr. Josh Wright also praised the series as one of the most professional concert series he has performed with.
The final performance on November 2 featured Woods, a Salt Lake City native, performing music from the Great American Songbook. The conclusion of the series marks the end of a collaboration that sought to make live performance a shared community experience rather than an occasional luxury.
