Making a Difference, One Instrument at a Time

Just as classroom teachers rely on basic school supplies like pencils and paper to carry out daily instruction, music teachers across CCUSD schools rely on instruments to deliver music education curriculum each day. Donations to CCEF help our stellar educators put a wide range of instruments into the hands of eager new learners. 

A CCUSD student’s musical journey from TK to high school graduation day begins with music literacy foundations in the early grades. 3rd graders are given a hands-on opportunity to create melodies through recorder lessons given in classrooms by Ms. Molly Peters and Ms. Erin Smith. At the end of the unit in 4th grade, the recorder is theirs to take home and keep.

A special appeal to CCEF donors in spring of 2023 successfully brought in enough funding to launch ukulele instruction in all 4th and 5th grade classrooms. Not only do ukuleles help students learn rhythm, melody, and harmony, but their smaller size and simple design also make them easy to learn, fostering fun and motivation. The newer ukulele program is in addition to, and not in lieu of, music instruction on band, strings, and brass instruments that they may elect to play, under the tutelage of Mr. Andy Pascoe.

Funds raised from community members in support of music education at a special film screening event of the Academy award-winning documentary The Last Repair Shop in  September 2024 made it possible for CCEF to grant $7,500 to CCHS/AVPA Music Director Tony Spano for the purchase of a large number instruments valued at a much higher total amount.. Dr. Spano was able to acquire 19 brass instruments, 16 woodwinds, 6 electric basses/guitar, and 4 sets of bells to benefit band and orchestra students both at the middle school and high school. 

In recent years CCEF has also acknowledged donations of over 20 gently-used instruments gifted to the District by community members who recognize the potentially transformative power of a high-quality music education. As Ms. Smith explains, “We firmly believe that learning music supports academic and cognitive growth. It enhances language skills, social abilities, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, resilience, and discipline. Furthermore, music education fosters collaboration and cooperation while instilling a sense of achievement that boosts student confidence and self-worth.” In other words, support for CCEF is instrumental to an impactful musical experience that complements a well-rounded education.