FULLY FUNDED! Mr. Stephens's classroom raised $1,612
This project is fully funded
My Students
Our band instruments are over 30 years old. Every year we have to retire another instrument due to inability to repair. We have a growing band with shrinking instrument numbers. Our students our eager to join the band and we do not want to turn anyone away because of the lack of instruments.
Our students come from a broad socio-economic background.
They come from urban and sub-urban areas in NYC. Our school is a Public School. Our school community is supportive of the arts. This is extremely important to the success of a beginner musician. For any student music is another opportunity to succeed at something other than academics or sports. Our students are excited about getting into the band. We need more instruments to accommodate these children.
My Project
Yes, students will learn music. But, believe it or not it might not be the most important thing they learn. Playing in an ensemble is a social exercise. You have different groups of instruments working together to create a larger picture. Within the different sections there are different types of people. This is where leadership skills can grow and where getting along can be learned. When you play in a large group you have to listen to the other players in your section and then listen for the other players in the band. When you play you blend in. You don't play as loud as you can all the time. That would be a solo. Problems are solved by each child in every section. It is a great thing to experience and watch children helping each other. Ensemble playing equals problem solving with the right guidance.
With the help of each donor our music program will grow.
One donation of one instrument will have an impact on children for many years to come. You can be part of laying the groundwork for a musical life for many children. Performances are always an amazing way to share with our parents. With these instruments we can expand our program and enhance the experience of our school community. More children will be able to march in local parades and play in concerts.
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Stephens and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.