“Anyone can make a difference just call your local schools and ask them what they need” Barry Manilow
That’s the message Barry Manilow shares when speaking passionately about the ‘Manilow Music Project’.
Linda Kloeppner president of ‘Forever And A Day’ in Denver, Colorado - one of many Manilow fan clubs around the world - took his advice to heart. She visited the principal - Mrs. Riedlin - of Lowry Elementary and asked how they could help. Ms. Lezotte, the schools music teacher said during the meeting she personally furnishes most of the instruments, music, and supplies due to budget cuts.
On April 16th, 2010, just over five months later, through the efforts of club fund raising and assistance from two music stores - Music City in Aurora and Guitar City in Denver - they presented the school with the following items:
Microphone
Mic cable with on/off switch
Mic stand w/boom arm
Tambourine
Castinet
One set resonator bells (small xylophone)
Sleigh bells
Barry Manilow Anthology Music Book
Linda gave me permission to share the story. Their group proves how Barry inspires his fans, not only through his music, but by setting an example of what we can do if we get out there and ask.
Our Fan Club was invited to speak after a program presented by the ‘Denver School of the Arts’. Unfortunately, due to work schedules, most of our Fan Club members were unable to attend. My Grandchildren, who are members, were there (of course—they are students). The program was great!
The Denver School of the Arts put on a complete program in 30 minutes with a ballet/modern dance number; girls’ chorus sang selections from “The Little Mermaid”; a classical piano solo; and the school band/orchestra played classical selections. Very talented kids!
The principal, Mrs. Riedlin. introduced me, accepted each instrument and told of the day I first walked into her office. The instruments we contributed (THANKS TO YOU!): Microphone Mic cable, Mic stand w/boom arm, Tambourine Castanet, 1 set resonator bells. small xylophone, Sleigh bells, and a Barry Manilow Anthology Music Book.
The card we included, contributed by a Club member, had a picture of Barry with Palm Springs High School band students taken at the Las Vegas Hilton. It explained our contribution and included a quote from Barry—“Music helped me stay in school.”
My daughter Jenny (also a member of our Club), took pictures. We received loud applause. The principal was very appreciative and very nice (I was very nervous!) Students were thanking me, and the new president of the parent/teacher organization introduced herself. Teachers and some parents thanked me, and even said they are Barry Fans! I would say our endeavour was a success.
THANK YOU EVERYONE Linda K.
PS It was very rewarding, and I am so proud of everyone’s commitment, dedication, and effort.
Cheers to “Forever and a Day”!
Instruments donated
Linda presenting ‘sleigh bells’ to Mrs. Riedlin principal of Lowry Elementary School I love the little guy in yellow, he’s going to be loving that new instrument!
Assembly of students and teachers during presentation
If you’ve accomplished something similar or have an event coming up to benefit your local school or charity, please let me know I’d love to share your story - hholdun@gmail.com