The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra, along with Roxy Music and Drew’s Gift of Music, launched an instrument drive earlier this spring that culminated with 20 donated instruments ranging from flutes to a drum kit. On Friday, May 15, LCSO Interim Music Director, Chuck Steck, delivered the instruments to Drew’s Gift of Music where they will be repaired and then loaned to worthy elementary, middle and high school students in the region who cannot afford to lease or purchase an instrument.
L-R: LCSO Interim Music Director, Chuck Steck, and Joan Davis and Bill Heiss of Roxy Music. The instruments were collected by Roxy Music and will be repaired by Drew's Gift of Music before being redistributed to deserving music students in our area who could not otherwise lease or rent the instrument.
“I was happy to deliver the instruments,” Mr. Steck stated. “Drew’s Gift of Music is doing tremendous work in helping further the cause of music education and these instruments will help deserving students pursue their musical dreams. I am proud of LCSO’s partnership with Roxy Music and Drew’s Gift of Music!”
Bill Heiss, General Manager of Roxy Music said, “All of us at Roxy Music have really enjoyed being a part of the Drew’s Gift of Music collection and are hopeful that the instruments donated will contribute to giving joy to future musicians. The generosity displayed has been very inspiring.”
Deb Johnson of Drew’s Gift of Music relayed these words as the instruments arrived at her drop-off location, “As I open each case, I see the instrument as having its own past story; some stories being longer than others. Some stories are just a brief reflection of a moment in the life of a student. Each instrument is a gift even before it touches a student’s hand. Our thanks for these donated instruments is beyond words.”
This instrument drive is part of the LCSO’s “New Generations” program. In addition to the instrument drive, which likely will return annually, the LCSO has forged a partnership with the La Porte School Corporation to enhance each music student’s experience. Future activities will include attendance at future Drayton Children’s Educational Concerts, conductor visits, student apprentice opportunities with the LCSO, mentor opportunities and much more.
Instrument donations are still being accepted at Roxy Music, 1012 Lincolnway in La Porte. No guitars or pianos, please.
About LCSO:The mission of the LCSO is to enrich the lives of people of all ages within and beyond La Porte County through the experience of excellent live orchestra performances. The LCSO is also supported by the Indiana Arts Commission, South Shore Arts, La Porte Herald-Argus, Michigan City News Dispatch, The Beacher and WIMS AM 1420. Visit us at www.lcso.net.