Las Vegas Philharmonic Guild Launches Instrument Collection Program To Benefit Music Programs

The Las Vegas Philharmonic Guild has launched an instrument collection program to benefit local school music programs. This initiative is intended to address the great need for musical instruments for school music programs, particularly in charter schools in the Las Vegas valley. After researching the need for 6 months, the Guild entered into a partnership with Andre Agassi College Preparatory Academy, who recently expanded their music program to a yearlong platform covering band, orchestra, and smaller ensembles. Currently, there are as many as three students sharing a single instrument, which limits performance and practice times.

"Considering the wealth of musical resources in Las Vegas, we feel certain that with increased awareness, we can attract many people who have lonely instruments hiding in the backs of their closets or in garages that are waiting for a second chance," shares Guild President, Juliana McRae. "We believe that people would be willing to donate these instruments for a vital and worthy charitable cause, plus reap the tax benefits from such a donation."

The organization is seeking playable instruments in good condition and because these instruments may need some refurbishing, they are also seeking interested parties for monetary contributions or donations of instrument repair services. Since the young students of today are tomorrow's musicians and audiences, and since there is such a high value of self-esteem earned through music education, we are very excited about this project, The Gift of Music.

For more information, to donate, or get involved, contact Monica Fuller at GuildEducation@lvphil.com or 702.580.8528.

The Guild, comprised of almost 300 members, has been supporting the orchestra through its volunteering and fundraising efforts since July 2003 and has donated a total of $425,000 over the past twelve years. Their mission is to support the orchestra in its musical performances and education initiatives. In 2015, the Guild received two awards from the League of American Orchestras for their 10th Anniversary Gala, A Decade of Musical Memories, and their ongoing Martini MondayMusicales and Winey Wednesday events.

The Las Vegas Philharmonic, led by Music Director, Donato Cabrera, established its presence in Southern Nevada in 1998. The mission of the organization is to perform music that enriches and educates, helping to build a vibrant, culturally rich community. A proud resident company of The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, the Las Vegas Philharmonic brings a valued cultural dimension to the city, providing over 16,000 children each year with vital access to a music education program and showcasing local talents alongside stellar nationally and internationally known guest artists on the magnificent Reynolds Hall stage. At the orchestra's core are 76 contracted professional musicians, many of whom are esteemed educators who also perform in other professional productions in Las Vegas, bringing depth and variety to the organization.

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Philharmonic's community, education and artistic programs are made possible by the generous donations and support of individuals and corporations. To join us in our mission or learn more, visit lvphil.org or call 702.258.5438.

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