The Southern Highland Music Foundation has received an $850 grant from the Georgia Music Foundation to purchase “right-sized” acoustic instruments for beginning music students in Rabun County.
The foundation is using the funds to supply smaller, three-quarter–sized instruments to Blue Ridge Music in Clayton. The instruments are designed to better fit younger students, making them easier to hold, play and practice on.
“Right-sized instruments are generally three-quarter sized models that are easier for younger students to hold properly,” said Tom Nixon, chief executive officer of the Southern Highland Music Foundation. “Working with a right-sized instrument makes it easier for young students to practice, play and create music. We find that by matching students with instruments that are easy and comfortable to hold, it helps them make rapid progress.”
In addition to purchasing the instruments, the foundation is supporting their use through a free lending program at Blue Ridge Music. The program allows new students to borrow an instrument at no cost while they explore their interest in music.
“Allowing very new students to borrow the right-sized instrument at no cost lets them try them out and decide whether that instrument is right for them or if their interests lie in a different area,” Nixon said. “Children often change their minds. Our free lending program eliminates any guilt or ‘buyer’s remorse’ attached to the purchase of an instrument.”
So far, four new students are using the instruments for practice and learning at Blue Ridge Music.
