Dr. Becoats introduces a student to a shiny new trumpet
The gym at Neal Middle School was abuzz today, as dignitaries were on hand to announce that the school's band program will be reinstated, thanks to a $30,000 grant from the Dale Jr. Foundation and VH1 Save the Music.
Principal Jill Hall also announced that Ken Joyner, who attended Neal back when the school had a band, was returning to his alma mater to direct the new band.
She said he viewed his middle school experience is what sparked his love of music, and he's eager to help create that same experience for current and future Neal students.
Neal is the first Durham school to receive funding through the Save the Music program, which to date has provided more than $47 million in new musical instruments to 1,750 public schools in more than 100 cities, equipping 1.6 million children.
“Music education provides a refreshing perspective on learning and inspires creativity,” Superintendent Eric Becoats said in a statement. “We are very thankful to have wonderful partners who share our vision for educating the whole child.”
