Foundation Provides $16,000 in New Instruments to Band Program

A 290% jump in enrollment left the band short of instruments. Two alumni families answered with $16,000 of new flutes, clarinets, trumpets and trombones.

Will Rogers sixth graders carrying new instrument cases across the lawn from the music van

Two generous gifts by Ron Woods, class of 1957, and the Ron & Carole Woods Foundation and the Robert Sharpe, class of 1953, family made it possible for the Foundation to help the instrumental music program with a “problem.” That problem was a 290% increase in student enrollment creating a dire need for additional instruments. These donations came with a request to aid the Arts. Both Mr. Woods and Mr. Sharpe were involved in the band programs during their time at WRHS.

I really have always wanted to play the clarinet and I am so thankful that the foundation was able to help that happen!

Yannick Sixth Grader

Approximately $16,000 provided 13 flutes, 10 clarinets, 3 trumpets, 4 trombones and mouthpieces for various instruments. It was a great thrill for Foundation members to be at the school to see excitement on the faces of sixth graders as they traipse out to the Saied’s music van to bring in the new instruments.

A Rogers student holding up a new flute in the band room

Sixth grader Yannick said, “I am so excited to get new instruments this year. I really have always wanted to play the clarinet and I am so thankful that the foundation was able to help that happen!”

A sixth-grade student holding a new clarinet in the Rogers band room

The band is still growing and Mr. Vordie Mathis, the new band director, is enthusiastic and has set ambitious goals for the WRHS band. Your gift can make a difference in the growth of this program.

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