Atlanta, GA, October 18, 2005--Atlanta area public school students will experience the magic of music—many for the first time—as The Quest stages its four-day instrument donation drive, November 1-4, 2005.
In partnership with AmericasMart Atlanta, Atlanta Symphony Associates and Central Atlanta Progress, The Quest Instrument Drive—in support of The Quest’s ‘Strike Up the Band—will collect new instruments for distribution in DeKalb and Fulton county public schools.
AmericasMart—the nation’s number-one wholesale marketplace—and the Woodruff Arts Center will serve as collection points for the Drive.
“Through music we’re able to propel our students into a vibrant, magical world of exploration and imagination,” says Midge Sweet, chair, The Quest Board of Directors. “Clarinet, violin, trumpet, saxophone, viola—each offers a vehicle for self-expression and fun. We’re grateful to the employees of AmericasMart for their support and enthusiasm,” continues Sweet.
Founded in 2004, The Quest is a dynamic, non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating children and music in Atlanta’s public school system. Through its music education programming, FUNDamentally Music and ‘Strike Up the Band, The Quest is able to offer monetary and grass-roots support to those who believe in the power and importance of music. ‘Strike Up the Band allows children unable to purchase a musical instrument to utilize one for use in the school band or orchestra; FUNDamentally Music issues grants to musician-teachers who mentor and inspire children to participate in instrumental or choral expression.
“Music unifies. It allows for self-expression and creativity. It disciplines and builds character but also entertains. It’s a critical building block for every child regardless of race, gender or background,” states Jeffrey L. Portman, president of AmericasMart parent, AMC, Inc. “Music is a very important part of my life and that of my family and I know that I speak on behalf of every AmericasMart,,,, employee when I say that we are thrilled and honored to be associated with such an important organization.”
AMC, Inc. has also offered its support to numerous additional not-for-profit organizations, including Mr. Kenyada’s Neighborhood, the Ixtatan Foundation, Liga de Futbol Juvenil de Atlanta, Inc. and its Teodoro Maus and Venus Ginés soccer leagues, The American Cancer Society, as well as Dress for Success.
