The 31 Violins fundraising campaign, spearheaded by the 2013 Leadership Burbank Class, expanded instrumental music instruction in Burbank’s elementary schools. By providing 31 violins and 40 music stands to existing programs at elementary schools within the Burbank Unified School District (BUSD), we:
- Helped eliminate the financial burden from the district and individual schools
- Freed up district resources so more students can access music education
- Increased instruction time and reduce music class sizes
Background
In 1992, the BUSD eliminated weekly elementary instrumental music programs. In 2007, a general music program was developed for grades 2-5, allowing students to attend classes twice a month.
In 2013, five schools offer general music education to grades K-5. Only two – Providencia and Roosevelt – offer instrumental music instruction within the school day. The BUSD’s long term goal is to replicate these instrumental programs in other school sites. The 2013 Leadership Burbank Class project will provide instruments, allow schools to educate more students sooner, and redirect funds towards instruction instead of equipment purchases.
Benefits
Studies show that students who play instruments perform better on standardized tests, achieve higher grades in high school, have an improved ability to think creatively and solve problems, and possess enhanced discipline and teamwork skills.
By providing these much needed instruments and stands, everyone benefits!
- Students – May practice an instrument at home
- Schools – Increase the number of children reached by their music programs and refocus their fundraising efforts on music instruction
- District – Expand music education capacity and improve access to more children
- Community – Encompass more children who have received the benefits of music education
