Instruments collecting dust in basements, closets and garages could be making music in the hands of students if they were donated to The Big Musical Instrument Drive.
This month the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools is collecting instruments in good condition for students at the public school district.
Donors will receive charitable tax receipts after the instruments are appraised.
Bruce Buruma, foundation executive director, said the instrument drive was last held about 15 years ago and it was time to resurrect the program to assist students who otherwise could not afford to join school music programs.
“Typically in the middle and high school programs, families are either renting or buying instruments for their children. But we do have some kids who typically can’t participate,” Buruma said on Wednesday.
“Music education has a lot of real benefits for kids, much more than just learning music. A lot of it is perseverance that comes with music education. Team work becomes part of it. It actually enhances math skills for kids. So music education has so many benefits. Those who aren’t able to access it lose out on those opportunities.”
The district has a few new music programs. Lindsay Thurber has started an introduction to band for students who have never participated in band before. There’s a new band program at G.H. Dawe School and a program is being developed at Normandeau School.
Buruma said the cost of buying an instrument can range from about $500 for a flute to $3,500 for a tuba.
“It’s typically band instruments, but we have all different kinds of instruments that are being used in our programs depending on teachers’ skills. We’ll absolutely take them all.”
The Foundation hopes to collect over 50 instruments as well as donations to help pay for repairs.
Instruments can be dropped off at any City of Red Deer Fire Station, and the Red Deer Public Schools administration office at 4747-53 St.
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com