We are raising funds to purchase new instruments and marching band uniforms. The instruments will support the five bands and three orchestras at OHS. Over 55% of our student population are eligible for free or reduced lunches so we need to have a good supply of instruments available to them.
Testimonials
When our daughter was signing up for electives for 6th grade a few years ago, we asked her to consider either band or orchestra, as my husband and I understand the value of a musical education. She initially resisted but ended up agreeing to try orchestra for one year. To her great surprise, she ended up loving it. She made friends with a great group of kids through orchestra, most of whom are in honors classes, which helps to keep her motivated for those classes as well. Being a part of orchestra has given her a real sense of belonging. She is now in 10th grade and still loving orchestra, still friends with the same group of kids, and still taking honors classes. I would definitely recommend encouraging your child to get involved with one of the school music programs. .... Alissa M.
I started volunteering to help with the instrumental music program 9 years ago. Serving on its board for four of those years. In that time I was able to witness a truly exceptional relationship that exists in the performing arts hall. In that hallway is a family. In a time when we talk about the importance of mental health, the teachers and students have created that safe place so incredibly important to the health of students.
Since becoming involved in the program we were fortunate enough to get two new amazing instructors. The new instructors' tireless dedication helped ignite an explosion of growth in the program requiring us to search for larger auditoriums to house concerts due to the large audiences. The love of what they teach is evident and is reflected in the way students respond to the teachers. Part of what created the family environment in the hallway are these unforgettable teachers.
I no longer have a student in Overland High School, yet my heart is still there. I still help especially in the performing arts hall because I have seen the positive impact made on the lives of those students. I believe in everything that the Instrumental Music Parents Association does. ... M.J.