Press Release
From Asheville Music School:
Asheville Music School and the Paul Thorpe Music Education Fund have awarded over $6,000 in music scholarships and reached hundreds of under served members of our community. This year they will be able to offer even more thanks to a grant from the Bonnie Cashin Fund of the NY Community Trust. Bonnie Cashin (1908-2000) was a fashion designer whose estate was left to benefit the promotion of the arts, culture, science, education and rehabilitation.
“Whether being mentored one-on-one or experiencing the excitement of singing with a jazz or rock band, music study can transform a child’s life,” commented Executive Director Amy Rae Stupka. “In partnership with public schools and area social service and arts organizations, we’re attempting to fill a gap caused by declining school music funding and to make sure every child has this opportunity. This grant will certainly help us come closer to meeting our goal.”
One scholarship recipient remarked, “When I sing and play piano…it makes me less scared and shy…and I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot.” Another scholarship recipient commented, “When I play violin, nothing can make me angry…a relief comes over me and calms me.”
“We’re also very excited to be able to reach more elders and individuals living with disabilities through music outreach performances this year,” added PTMEF committee and AMS Board chairman, Jim Bixby.
Outreach ensemble leader Gabrielle Tee remarked, “The music outreach to assisted living facilities, homes for children and hospitals is such a win-win! Under served members of our community experience the joy of music and a special connection with children, and our students learn important life lessons by using their musical gifts to help others.”
“We’re thrilled that this grant will also allow us to increase our outreach to the Spanish-speaking community this year,” added Executive Director Amy Rae Stupka.
The Paul Thorpe Music Education Fund (PTMEF) was created by in honor of the late Paul Thorpe, AMS director 2003-2011, to provide music education, mentoring, instruments, and music outreach to at-risk youth, families, seniors and individuals living with disabilities.
The Bonnie Cashin Grant was awarded to the PTMEF in memory of Paul Thorpe and the late Henry W. Grady, a dear friend of Paul’s.
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