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A new community initiative announced at a recent school board meeting will expand instrumental music education for children in Edmonds Public Schools. The Edmonds Music4Life program provides an opportunity for income-eligible elementary students to play musical instruments.
Edmonds Music4Life offers musical instruments to fifth graders who qualify for the free- and reduced-lunch program free of charge. The program is the fourth in the area; other Music4Life programs support the Seattle, Highline and Shoreline school systems. The programs have support from local Rotary Clubs.
"Our goal is to provide every student in the district an opportunity to play a musical instrument if they want to, regardless of their ability to afford it," says Dr. Nick Brossoit, Superintendent of Edmonds Public Schools. "We do this at a time of financial challenge because research shows that students who study instrumental music do better in math, science, history, languages and many other desirable academic disciplines."
Currently, 40 percent of students in Edmonds Public Schools who participate in instrumental music programs are income-eligible.
"Many adults no longer play musical instruments that are gathering dust in their attics and garages," says David Endicott of Music4Life. "We gratefully accept those ‘lovingly used' instruments, repair them as needed and then donate them absolutely free of charge or lend them on a long-term basis to Edmonds Schools." Used musical instruments can be dropped-off at any Kennelly Keys Music store or at one of several sites identified online.
"If resources allow, we can also buy new musical instruments that the Edmonds band and orchestra directors tell us they need for eligible young musicians." Donations help take care of musical supplies and repairs. Endicott says monetary donations can be made by visiting the website at www.EdmondsMusic4Life.org.
For more information or to donate an instrument to Edmonds Music4Life, contact [email protected] or call 206-409-3275 or visit www.EdmondsMusic4Life.org.
