We're passionate about music education, and we're sad to see fewer and fewer music programs in our public schools nationwide. Unfortunately, we can't solve that problem. What we can do is help more students in our own backyard have access to music education. That's exactly why we've partnered with the Public School Foundation. 

The Public School Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization that is dedicated to mobilizing community support for the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. The PSF believes that all students deserve the best possible education, and provides additional funding for innovative programs and projects to support those students and their teachers. 

We kicked off our partnership with the presentation of a check at our Grand Opening. Ever since, we've continued our support with monthly donations. Our House Band has been able to provide the entertainment at two of the PSF's annual fundraising events, which has afforded them the opportunity to perform at two awesome local venues. Last fall, they opened for the Paperhand Puppet Intervention at Halloween on the Green in Southern Village, and earlier this year they rocked Vecino Brewing Co. for the 5k for Education Packet Pick-Up Party. 

 The donations we've made have been readily put to good use. With the funds donated during the 2017/2018 school year:

• A student was able to take guitar lessons free of charge, which helped build his self-confidence and enabled him to pursue his passions. 
• Phillips Middle School was able to purchase a new violin and viola for its orchestra. The purchase of an instrument can be a barrier to pursuing music education, and these new instruments will enable an additional 2 kids a year to partipate.
• A student that struggles academically and thrives musically was able to attend music camp free of charge. This helped prepare the student for high school orchestra and instilled greater self-confidence. 
• East Chapel Hill High School was able to purchase a new oboe for its band and orchestra programs to replace two old and outdated oboes. Prior to this purchase, a student was forced to borrow an oboe from another school. 

We see the benefits of music education in our school every day; self-confidence, accountability, teamwork, and more. Studies have also shown that participation in music programs through high school increase school engagement and academic achievement. We're honored to be able to help more students benefit in even more ways!