May 26, 2009
Manilow Provides Lifetime of Memories

By Brian Ingelson
Special to THE DESERT SUN

There are those who talk about helping and then there are those who actually do. We are so blessed in this community to have many to whom this applies.

One of the Coachella Valley's luminaries stepped to the fore, again, and with little fanfare changed the lives of a group of students.

You might recall that in September, Barry Manilow kicked off the Manilow Music Project through encouraging individuals to get involved in local schools by donating instruments or music. He collected the needs from all of the middle and high schools in the Coachella Valley
and donated $500,000 of instruments, stands and music.

His message was clear: “Anyone can do it, anyone. Just call your local elementary or high school and talk to the music director. See what they need. You can send them a set of drums or used trumpets that are in your basement, and that would make all the difference in the
world to young kids. That is the key, helping the kids and making a difference in their lives and their future.”

Providing the instruments was only the beginning.

Members of the Palm Springs High School Jazz Band recently boarded a bus provided by Manilow for an overnight trip to Las Vegas, where the members had an opportunity to meet the singer, get a behind-the-scene glimpse on stage of the workings of a legendary concert
performer and become an enthralled audience member. They shared his performance with more than 1,500 of Manilow's adoring fans. Manilow paid all the expenses.

Most of the students had never been to a live concert of the magnitude of the “Ultimate Manilow” show, and most had never stayed in a hotel of the caliber of the Las Vegas Hilton.
To see the students interact with Mani low, for them to feel his genuine interest in their pursuit of music and for him to recognize them during his show and talk about his home in the Coachella Valley provided lifetime memories and an amazing sense of pride.

The Manilow Music Project is about ensuring that the music does not stop and that students continue to have the opportunity to learn about the art and language of music, allowing it to become a part of their soul. Manilow met and exceeded these goals with his gifts.

From a very appreciative group of students, faculty, and parents, thank you, Barry, for keeping the music alive.

Brian Ingelson is the director of the Spirit of the Sands band at Palm Springs High School. Reach him at bcingelson@psusd.us

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