The City of Burnaby is asking for donations of used instruments to help give the gift of music to residents through a new program.
“Expressing yourself through music is one of life’s greatest joys, but the financial cost of renting an instrument and paying for lessons puts music out of reach for too many people,” Coun. Joe Keithley said in a news release.
“Harmony for All will ensure that all Burnaby residents have the opportunity to explore their musical talents. Learning music is a wonderful way for our kids to connect, make friends and overcome cultural barriers."
On Dec. 18, Keithley and Burnaby firefighters will be at city hall in the main parking lot from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to accept gently used donations.
Those who donate will be given a tax receipt.
The donations will help the first phase of Harmony for All, which includes an instrument lending program to provide underserved Burnaby children access to musical instruments.
That program is expected to start in spring 2022.
Future phases of the program will include eliminating barriers to musical education, with the city coordinating low- or no-cost music programs for those not able to afford lessons.
The city adds they will also develop grants for Burnaby residents to pay for music programs.
Council agreed at a Nov. 8, 2021, council meeting to contribute $72,000 to establish Harmony for All as a city-operated program. On Nov. 18, the Burnaby fire department's charitable organization also provided $10,000 and committed to providing another $10,000 each year for the next 10 years.
