November 2, 2010
By providing band and orchestra instruments, and supporting low-income students with music books and lessons, scholarships for summer band camp, relationships with high school mentors, and cultural enrichment opportunities, PING! is making a big difference in the lives of 155 students this year. Our students' parents report that their children have more confidence, and that the lessons they learn about self-discipline and practicing also lead to improved academic outcomes. The kids love to perform with their friends, and to belong to a group within their schools. The board works hard to gather feedback from the families to create a supporting community, with regular informational meetings, special workshops, and outings to hear music in the area.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I attended the recent middle school band and orchestra concert and heard lovely music and saw beaming parents. The low-income kids and families were indistinguishable from the more-advantaged ones, and they all played together to create something beautiful.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
....help more people in the community know about the opportunity to put the old instruments in their closets into the hands of children who will love them.
MY ROLE:
Board Member & I helped make a connection with the local symphony for free lessons for our high school musicians. I also cooked chili for a parent support and community-building meeting.