SAN FRANCISCO — Band students at John Yehall Chin Elementary School were expecting a regular rehearsal last Wednesday, but instead they were greeted with $5,000 worth of instruments donated to the music department by Fidelity Investments.
The school acquired two cellos, two violas, one alto saxophone, one tenor saxophone, one piccolo, and two trombones.
In the seven years Principal Allen Lee has worked at the school, the music department has not received any new instruments. Lee said he usually does not even hear back from the six or seven grant organizations to which he applies each year. “That’s the batting average usually,” Lee said. “I’m lucky to get this one.”
This year, Lee applied for a grant from Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, a national organization dedicated to bringing instruments to music programs that lack resources and support. They matched the school with Fidelity Investments.
Piping up with excitement, fifth-grader Simon Yu said: “I feel really happy and really amazed in getting these new instruments. The saxophone’s new to me.” Yu said one recorder he played a few years ago snapped in half after a month of use.
“The snare drums before our concert just fell apart,” added fourth-grader Zaynah Shaikh. “They were all wobbly.” Because drums are expensive and funding for music programs is dwindling, the department bought plastic tubs and covered the tub tops from one end to another with electrical tape to substitute for drums.
Students usually rent or buy their own instruments, but the school provides some if children forget theirs at home. Lee strategically chose the cello, viola, trombone, and piccolo for the wish list, because they are more difficult to find, transport or afford.
“I’m thrilled to death,” Lee said. “It’s a great thing for the kids. It adds instrument diversity.”