DCSD Band and Orchestra Enrollment Increases Thanks to Philanthropists

Since 2012, The Falb and Chandlee families and Kendall Hunt Publishing have donated $60,000, in addition to a $21,000 gift from the Dubuque Racing Association (DRA), to the Foundation for Dubuque Public schools to purchase instruments for school band and orchestra programs. These donations provide disadvantaged students the opportunity to use district owned instruments, rather than renting or purchasing them, in order to participate in band and orchestra. By providing students with a larger variety and quantity of instruments, district music teachers have been able to engage more students in their programs. 

“In 2012, approximately 1,000 students were enrolled in band and orchestra throughout the district, although the interest was greater.  Unfortunately, we simply didn’t have enough school instruments to meet demand.  The “Hands on Instruments” support we received over the past three years through the Falb and Chandlee families, Kendall Hunt Publishing, and the DRA has enabled us to purchase $80,000 in new school instruments and grow our music programs to reach almost 200 additional students.  We are so grateful for the gifts provided by these generous members of the community.” – Cheryl Werner, Arts Coordinator for DCSD