Posted September 28, 2011

In the last couple of years, the Music department has seen a marked increase in families who are unable to afford an instrument for their children. Some children have requested to drop out of band or orchestra because the instrument rental costs are more than their parents can currently afford.

If you have any used band or orchestra instruments at home, please consider making them a tax-deductible donation to the school district. The district can rent these instruments to families at a greatly reduced cost, or by BOE policy, waive the rental fee for families on free lunch. You can drop off the instrument to District Music Supervisor Deborah Keough at Shaker High School or to a music teacher in any school building. Please include your full name and address so we can send the letter for your tax deduction.

Instruments used in the North Colonie music program:

Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, Bassoon

Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba

Percussion Kit (drum pad, bells)

Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass

Guitar, Digital keyboard

Our hope is that every child who wants to learn an instrument will be able to do so.

If you have any questions, please contact District Music Supervisor Deborah Keough at 785-5511, ext. 3354.