Independence, M.O – Thanks to your donations this week, Keeping The Blues Alive started the year off well, by providing a keyboard pack for Benton Elementary School.

Ms. Wehrman is sponsoring an after-school music class for the young students at her elementary school.

“My students live in poverty with nearly a 90% free and reduced lunch rate. They do not have the ability to afford piano lessons. So many of them long to take lessons, but often turn away devastated when they discover there is a fee. My kids love music and would benefit greatly from taking this love to a higher level. Group piano lessons will give these students an opportunity they would ordinarily not receive.”

The students will sign up on a first come, first serve basis for an after school club. This club will rotate quarterly to accommodate as many students as possible. The students will each have their own keyboard to practice on during the clubs with headphones so as to not interrupt other students while practicing. As the students learn and perform a song, either for the teacher or group as a whole, they will receive stickers showing they passed the song. The club will culminate in a recital showing graduation from the program.

Students who show a continuing desire to learn can apply for a scholarship for continued lessons.

“Donations will help my students have an opportunity that currently eludes them. These piano lessons will help train their brains to utilize both hemispheres at the same time, thus improving brain functions. These skills will transfer to other academic areas as well as encourage confidence in working towards a goal. The students will learn skills that will stay with them for life.”

As a result of the donations received, her project was funded!

Dear Keeping The Blues Alive Foundation,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Today was our first day back to school after break, and this gift kicked off the new semester in a marvelous way for all of us.My students beg for piano lessons on a weekly basis, but their families simply cannot afford them. These resources will open a door to my students to have the opportunity to take group piano lessons for free in a safe, after-school environment. I can hardly wait for this club to begin, hopefully later this month!As you know, music helps build creativity and critical thinking for students. It can also provide structure to their lives and give them a goal to work to achieve. Your generosity will help my students today, tomorrow, and forever.

With gratitude,
Ms. Wehrman