On Tuesday’s (4/8) WQXR blog, Brian Wise writes that the radio station’s instrument drive from March 28 to April 7 “has netted more than 2,500 instruments, smashing the initial goal of 1,000. Along with scores of flutes, guitars and clarinets, there were numerous offbeat bequests: a xylophone, a Chinese pipa, several accordions and mandolins. Family heirlooms and never-used items arrived in equal number. The end of the collection period marks the start of the next phase, of refurbishing the instruments and distributing them to music programs in New York City public schools. Sam Ash Music Stores and the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation will continue to partner with WQXR in this process. Graham Parker, WQXR’s general manager, said he was surprised by the level of excitement behind the program. ‘I have been humbled by the personal stories that have accompanied many of the donations,’ he said.… The drive inspired a number of encouraging stories, in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and in several television reports…. Social media response was also encouraging, with a daily outpouring of Tweets, according to WQXR.org producer Kim Nowacki.… WQXR will continue to provide updates on the collection and distribution process in the months ahead.”
Posted April 9, 2014
WQXR photo by Kim Nowacki/WQXR
