The non-profit group Bravo for Kids donated more than $20,000 in new musical instruments to students at the northern Escambia County school so that they too can learn to play an instrument and participate in their school band.
The program encourages students, who have not participated in band because of cost, to learn how to play an instrument and gain a deeper appreciation of the art of music.
Bill Dollarhide of Dollarhide's Music and Sound, and retired banker Denis McKinnon, Bravo for Kids' vice president, earn high marks for developing the program after Escambia school Superintendent Jim Paul lamented the lack of instruments for students at Carver/Century.
Education, especially in public schools, is supposed to be the great equalizer that offers those who don't have the means or the money the exposure and opportunity to participate in activities they otherwise would not have access to.
When it comes to education and learning, music is not a frill. It is one of mankind's greatest accomplishments, and it can teach and inspire in a way that words and equations cannot.
A good, well-rounded education should go beyond reading, writing and arithmetic. We all learn differently. And for some, music will be the pied piper leading them on a path to higher learning. Moreover, teenagers who are busy rehearsing and playing music are too busy to be out getting into trouble.
In the last few years, schools across the state have been cutting musical opportunities for students. And with statewide achievement tests that focus heavily on reading, writing, math and science, many schools have had to abandon subjects such as music, art and drama to provide more time to prepare for the high-stakes tests.
Music opens the door to a variety of opportunities and to a whole new experience for students who may not have been exposed to it without programs like Bravo for Kids.
Appreciation for music usually begins at an early age. But because of a lack of exposure or opportunity, too many of our children miss the chance to learn how to play an instrument and participate in the musical experience while in school.
The success of Bravo for Kids is not only an example of volunteer spirit but it also shows what can happen when individuals, businesses and groups work together to make schools, students and communities better.
Cash donations and used musical instruments can be given year-round to help equip Escambia County band students. Donations can be made at Dollarhide's Music Center, 43 S. Palafox St., or at the Pensacola Junior College Music and Theatre Department on the PJC main campus. For more details, call 494-9898.