October 3, 2013

 

 

 

The Davis Family Foundation of Maine, recently awarded $5,000 to the Rangeley Friends of the Arts (RFA) to help fill a 10-year community void of no instrumental instruction in the Rangeley School.   This a continuation of  a joint pilot program with the School that began last year.  Under the able direction of our own veteran music teacher, Victor Borko, students learn more than music;  they learn the meaning of commitment, perseverance and teamwork…all critical life skills.

 

The $5,000 grant will help to fund instruction, instrument rental and provide up to 80% tuition assistance to those in need.  All students, grades 5-12 are eligible to learn to play an instrument by participating in small group lessons and ensemble/band.  Instruments will be provided for those who do not have their own.  Students may be asked to pay a nominal fee for instrument cleaning and for their own sheet music.  The tuition is $100 per semester, which amounts to $5 per week.  Students are encouraged to enroll now.

 

In addition to the instrumental program, the RFA raises funds all year through its productions, fund raisers and through the generous contributions of individuals and businesses to fund art education for all local youth.  Students travel to live performances and exhibits at Theatre at Monmouth, Portland Symphony, Portland Stage Company, and Portland Museum of Art.  The RFA also funds in-school artists in residence and in-school performances.  The RFA also subsidizes the tuition costs for out-of-school instruction in the fields of dance, theatre, voice and music.

 

For more information about the Instrumental Instruction Project, please contact Victor Borko. If you would like to make a donation to help continue this important program, you may donate on line at www.rangeleyarts.org or mail your donation to RFA PO Box 333, Rangeley, ME 04970. The Rangeley Friends of the Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and all donations are tax deductible.