Albion-Homer United Way Helps Tune Up For Music

Albion In Tune received an upbeat grant of $5,000 from the Albion-Homer United Way to fund youth music lessons provided by Walk the Beat-Albion. The grant provides virtual music lessons for 15 students on five different instruments. The money provides instructors for students aged 5-18 who want to try an instrument or study vocal or instrumental music. Virtual lessons are currently necessary due to COVID-19 restrictions.

This new AHUW supported venture is an extension of the original music lesson program designed by Walk the Beat-Albion board member Taneka Thomas and Marquetta Frost and Sherry Grice from the 4-H Creative and Expressive Arts Program. This music education program has successfully provided keyboards and lessons for 10 Albion students. The new AHUW grant money will allow for this additional music education and to double the number of students in the current music lesson program.

When COVID-19 restrictions allow for in-person musical events the Albion in Tune program will also give participants opportunities to perform at open-mic events, blues jam performances, rehearse in a newly created band and join in a variety of musical events throughout the year. 

According to WTBA President Cliff Harris, Walk the Beat-Albion was established to reinvigorate and support music in Albion. “The history of music is strong in Albion,” Harris said “Walk the Beat seeks to support and carry on the musical traditions by supporting music education in our area youth, supporting area musicians and live performance opportunities.”  Harris also stated that access to arts, entertainment and recreational opportunities can be challenging to Albion area youth especially due to the continuing pandemic. 

The mission of WTBA aligns with the goals of the Albion-Homer United Way according to Marcia Starkey executive director. The mission of the AHUW is to provide “long-lasting changes that prevent problems from happening” to help community members “live more whole lives-a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support family through retirement, and good health.” Music education helps Albion area youth achieve those ultimate goals as WTB also supports child literacy programs including music studies.

To LIVE UNITED donate to the ongoing fundraising efforts of the Albion-Homer United Way either go on-line at www.albionhomeruw.org/ or mail your contribution to P.O. Box 55, Albion, MI 49224. 

Students enjoying a piano lesson from Albion In Tune.