Musical Instruments for the ACMS Music Program

Moderation state
funded
Grant Applicant
Rachael Posada on behalf of Randy Humphreys
Grant Co-applicants
ACMS Music Program
School Site
Alder Creek Middle School
Grant Category
Art/ Music
Grant Date
2019-08-01T12:00:00
Description

We are seeking funds to purchase additional instruments for the music program at Alder Creek Middle School.  As well as having a need to replace aging items, we are very excited that ACMS has added "band" to their rotating elective program.  This means that every student in 6th grade has the opportunity to experience the program and take a turn at learning an instrument.  The increased number of students now participating makes it critical to expand the inventory.  The immediate need is for the following:  4 flutes; 4 clarinets; 4 trumpets; 4 French horns.

Benefits of Program

From a concrete perspective, the new instruments will make it possible for more students to be hands-on more frequently.  Rather than share an instrument, each student will be able to work fully each music period.  And although slightly less concrete, yet definitely substantiated, studies have shown that there is a scientific link between music and math and a link between music and good mental health.  This is an excellent opportunity to expose more students to music as they enter both a more challenging scholastic world and experience more complex social/emotional situations.  The impact of this expanded program could provide dramatic, positive effects on students' academic success as well as their emotional well-being.

Success of Program

Allow students to have a more hands-on experience and introduction to band and orchestra.  Give more advanced music students the opportunity to use newer, higher-quality instruments and refine their skills.  In general, increase music appreciation, foster personal growth, and improve academic performance across multiple subjects.

Implementation

Purchase 4 flutes, 4 clarinets, 4 trumpets, and 4 French horns.  Once received, the instruments will be immediately useful and incorporated into the year-round and elective programs.

Can you share this grant with your grade level or subject team?

The music program at ACMS is a multi-grade program.  This grant will help 6th, 7th, and 8th grade levels.

Sustainability
Fortunately, musical instruments typically have a long life. There may be a future need to replace irreparably damaged or lost instruments, but typically Measure A (or Measure Aa) funds will allow us to cover those needs.
Amount Funded
$6000.00
Individual Budget Items(s)
$6000 - 4 flutes, 4 clarinets, 4 trumpets, 4 French horns
Budget Notes

The price for musical instruments can vary widely.  $6,000 is the lower-end of the spectrum cost for student models of the instruments needed.  The reason a formal estimate is not included is because suppliers have seasonal sales, liquidation of certain models, offers of refurbished items, and also because we would like to have the opportunity to ask local vendors (BlueNote B's Horn Shop in Reno and/or Split Rock Music Co of Truckee) to have an opportunity to match, or do better, against the larger firms. 

Other funding sources

Measure A is our main source of funding.  Typically, this covers repair and replacement of instruments, purchase of music, method books, corks, reeds, oils, and other supplies.  The Associated Student Body (ASB) account provides funding for field trips such as music festivals.

Supporting Links
Trusted online music store