Charlotte’s Music Programs Revitalized Through Community Initiative

Charlotte’s Musical Future Gets a Boost

In the heart of Charlotte, there’s a wonderful movement underway to breathe new life into our school music programs. Thanks to the dedication of local community members like Pearson Dunaway, students in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) band and orchestra programs are finding new instruments to play.

The Birth of Instrumental Impact

Just last year, Dunaway, who graduated from Myers Park High in 2018, realized how many unused instruments were sitting idle in homes around the city. This inspired him to take action and start Instrumental Impact, a nonprofit organization that connects donated instruments and equipment with local public schools.

Having studied piano in high school, Dunaway was no stranger to the importance of music in education. After returning to Charlotte following his graduation from UNC Chapel Hill, he noticed people offering musical instruments for sale or giving them away on Facebook Marketplace. This led to a conversation with the arts program staff at CMS, where he learned about a pressing need for instruments. And thus, Instrumental Impact was born!

Making a Difference, One Instrument at a Time

So far, Dunaway has managed to collect some much-needed instruments, including three clarinets. He has been proactive in reaching out to band directors to find out where these instruments will be most beneficial. Additionally, he received a generous donation from the Charlotte Symphony — three saxophones and four trombones — which he delivered to Mallard Creek High School during an exciting Saturday visit.

At Mallard Creek, band director Sir Davis was thrilled to receive the saxophones. “He said, ‘Actually, we have a football game tonight, and a couple of students wouldn’t be able to play, but now that we’ve got these saxophones, they’re going to be able to,’” Dunaway recalled with a smile. What a fantastic way to support the school’s band!

How You Can Help

The spirit of community is alive and well in Charlotte, and you can play a part in it! If you have an old instrument lying around that you no longer use, or if you’re looking to support local music education financially, consider making a donation. You can visit the Instrumental Impact website for more information or even reach out to the Charlotte Symphony directly at their feedback email.

This grassroots effort is shining a light on how vital music programs are for our schools and our students. Musicianship not only provides an avenue for students to express themselves creatively but also fosters teamwork and discipline. As Dunaway continues to collect instruments and establish connections within the community, one thing is clear: there’s still a strong passion for music in our schools.

Join the Movement!

In conclusion, if you’re interested in supporting music in schools, or if you’re simply a music lover who appreciates the effort being put into these programs, consider joining this movement. Whether it’s through donating an unused instrument or helping spread the word, you have the power to make a difference. After all, every new note played and every student who finds their love for music is a step towards a vibrant musical future in Charlotte.

Don’t miss out on being part of this extraordinary cause!