MUCHACHOS RECEIVES MUSIC DRIVES US FOUNDATION GRANT
The Muchachos Inc., the 501(c)(3) non-profit parent organization of the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps of Manchester, NH, has received a $5,000 grant from the Music Drives Us Foundation. The grant will be used to help purchase much-needed front ensemble instruments—two marimbas with marching field frames—to enhance the Corps' music education program.
Expanding the Corps' front ensemble section not only enhances the quality of music and enjoyment for both student and audience, it also provides students an opportunity to learn, practice, and perform on instruments that they might not otherwise get. Having stationary instruments also enables individuals with physical limitations to participate in an activity most often associated with able-bodied marching members. According to Al Gagne, Muchachos Corps Director, "The mallet instruments allow us to go beyond the education mission, as they expand the music repertoire and choices of music in ways not possible with only the brass and percussion instruments."
The Corps provides a year-round, low-cost music education program to individuals living in the New England area, currently serving students in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine. The Corps' program provides primary and secondary music education and performing arts instruction to both youth and adults. The minimum age to perform the field show is currently 14 years with no upper age limit. Younger students are permitted to perform with the Corps in parades.
The Corps provides all musicians the instruments, equipment, and uniforms necessary to learn, practice, and perform with the Corps. Students seeking to learn an instrument other than their primary band instrument, or looking to play an instrument for the first time, find the Corps accessible and affordable. The Corps provides an alternative to students unable to afford the high tuition and fees associated with nationally touring competitive Junior Corps (under age 22).
The operation of the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps relies solely on donations, tuition, fundraising efforts, and performance fees. Unlike many other Drum Corps, the Muchachos do not have a major corporate sponsor to assist with instructional staff, equipment purchases and repairs, and transportation costs. The grant from the Boch family's Music Drives Us Foundation will enable the Corps to further its mission of affordable music education for all ages by providing much-needed instrumentation.
Founded by Ernie Boch, Jr., Music Drives Us is a not-for-profit Boch family foundation that supports music education, preservation, and awareness throughout New England. The Foundation seeks out individuals and organizations that are interested in using music as a mechanism for all members of society in all age groups. For more information about Music Drives Us Foundation, visit www.musicdrivesus.org.
Added: January 30, 2012
