The Hispanic Alliance and KMFA Classical 89.5 closed out Fall Into Music, Austin’s third annual citywide instrument drive, on November 18. Over the 5-day drive, over 350 musical instruments, books, and accessories were donated across the city. Thousands of dollars were also collected from local businesses and individuals. Monetary donations will help repair instruments and cover event production costs.
The 2015 drive began on November 14 with a kickoff event at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center. Over 350 individuals attended this event to donate and hear performances by local bands.“The highlight of the kickoff event was getting to perform with Atash, one of Austin’s best local bands,” said Austin Soundwaves student musician Ashley Sosa. Families also enjoyed hands-on musical activities, face painting, and food from local vendors. Opening remarks were given by leaders from The Hispanic Alliance, KMFA Classical 89.5, and Peter Bay, the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s Music Director.
From November 14-18 instruments were collected at drop-off locations throughout the city, including KMFA Studios, The Long Center, and the Austin ISD Performing Arts Center. “It’s so much fun to pick up the instruments at the end of drive. From banjos to ukuleles to old classical scores, you never know what’s going to come in,” said Patrick Slevin, Director of Austin Soundwaves and one of the event coordinators.
The list of 2015 beneficiary organizations includes Austin Soundwaves (a program of The Hispanic Alliance), Austin Classical Guitar Society, Anthropos Arts, Blackshear Fine Arts Academy, Mendez Middle School, Dailey Middle School, Del Valle Middle Schools, AllRhythms, KIPP Austin, Austin Achieve Public Schools, and SWAN.
Late donations are still being accepted through the end of November by going to www.FallIntoMusic.org and plans are already being made for Fall Into Music 2016.
