The New Orleans-based Tipitina’s Foundation is donating band instruments to Bolton High School in Alexandria Thursday as part of its “Instruments a Comin’” music advocacy program. To date, Tipitina’s has donated instruments to 79 schools worth about $2.7 million to band programs, mostly in New Orleans. Tipitina’s Foundation managing director Bethany Paulsen said Bolton will receive a tuba and a euphonium, instruments that can be too costly for a band budget.
“This should allow them to increase the number of students who are participating in their program and to strengthen their program," Paulsen said. "They have a really strong band director there. We’re just excited that we can provide them with the resources that they need to grow what they’re doing in their music programs.”
Tipitina’sFoundation started its “Instruments AComin’”program 12 years ago. Paulsen said it recently expanded to consider instrument donations statewide, with recent awards in Shreveport and Lake Charles. Paulsen said she works closely with band directors to understand their challenges.
“We see that there’s a need for it. The schools tell us that they need instruments in other cities. The music is such an important part of our culture throughout the state that we want to keep these programs going for years to come," Paulsen said.
The “Instruments AComin’”donation will take place Thursday, Dec. 12, from 5 - 7 p.m. at theTipitina’sCo-Op Office in Alexandria.
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