Members proclaim “Music4Life” Month in King County

Music can be as vital to a child’s education as math, reading and science. The Metropolitan King County Council recognized the importance of music in school by acknowledging the work of Music4Life, a program that provides instruments to low-income students throughout the region, by proclaiming June “Music4Life” Month in King County.

“I am thrilled to recognize the work of Music4Life in providing instruments to children in King County.” said Council Vice Chair Rod Dembowski, the sponsor of the proclamation. “Music helps students thrive in all academic disciplines, and as the parent of two children who play instruments, I know the positive impact music education makes in young students’ lives.”

“Music is a gift that every child and young person can benefit from through participation in music education. No one should be denied that opportunity because of challenges with affordability,” said Councilmember Jeanne Kohl-Welles. “I am pleased to recognize Music4Life today and urge anyone with spare instruments to donate!”

For some students, the ability to play an instrument is a matter of income. Since 2007, Music4Life has repaired and provided ready-to-play instruments to participating public school districts for use by students of low-income families. Music4Life works in partnership with instrument manufacturers, rental agencies, wholesalers, retailers, and others to provide instruments to school districts.

“I am delighted to join the members of the King County Council in honoring Music4Life’s crucial work to get instruments into the hands of promising student musicians,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “Learning to read and play music in school not only has been shown to benefit young people in their other academic work, it gives them the opportunity to work as part of a team and to nurture a lifelong interest in the arts.”

1,800 instruments donated through Music4Life have allowed students in school districts in King and Snohomish Counties to pursue their musical dreams.

“Many people have ‘lovingly used’ musical instruments in their garages or attics that can be repaired,” says David Endicott, President and COO of Music4Life. “We have special relationships with local repair shops who provide discounts to us because we bring volumes of instruments to them. Once a donor realizes that an instrument’s highest and best use is to put it back into play, we get lots of them donated to us.  We’re very appreciative.”

For people who have instruments they would like to donate, or want more information on Music4Life, go towww.Music4Life.org