Desert Sun wire services • September 29, 2008
He may write the songs that make the whole world sing, but today Palm Springs resident Barry Manilow made a donation to encourage Coachella Valley students to learn more about music.
Manilow donated more than $500,000 in musical instruments to 20 middle and high schools throughout the valley.
The singer/songwriter -- best known for hits such as "Mandy" and "Copacabana" -- visited Palm Springs High School to announce the donations, which will benefit music programs in the Palm Springs, Desert Sands and Coachella Valley Unified School Districts.
Manilow told a crowd of teachers, school administrators and guests how his own life had been profoundly changed as a child when he was given a piano.
The donations were made through The Manilow Music Project, a nationwide effort to revitalize ailing music programs in schools.
Palm Springs High School Principal Ricky B. Wright said each school received anywhere from $15,000 to $18,000 worth of instruments, music, music stands and other items.
"It sure helps and it is a much needed contribution," Wright said. "For Mr. Manilow to do this is outstanding and it will not only help music programs here in the Coachella Valley but across the nation if everybody buys into it."
More information on the Manilow Music Project is available online at
www.manilowfund.org
No comments:
Post a Comment