SHAWNEE TOWNSHIP, Allen Co., Ohio (WLIO) — Residents from across the area donated musical instruments Saturday to help provide Ohio students with greater access to music education through Music Matters Ohio.
The organization hosted approximately 20 instrument drop-off locations across the state, including a collection site at Shawnee High School in Allen County. Throughout the day, community members donated a variety of instruments, including brass, woodwind and percussion instruments, violins, electric guitars and digital keyboards.
According to organizers, all donated instruments will be evaluated, repaired if necessary and distributed to students throughout Ohio. The goal is to place instruments in the hands of young musicians who may not otherwise have access to them and allow them to experience the benefits of music education.
“You know, music is something which is an inherent part of the human experience and to share that with young people is a wonderful thing. Not only they're making music, they're being creative, they're making wonderful connections with their peers, they're learning teamwork and discipline. It's fantastic. So, it's my favorite thing,” says Jaz Wallace Bluhm, District Captain for Music Matters Ohio.
Organizers said they hope to continue the program in future years and expand opportunities for students to participate in music programs throughout the state.
