Our free 6-week Summer Band Program for New Orleans music students grades 1-12 started on June 25 and ended August 3 with a final show for parents and friends at 11 AM. The kids had a great time and learned a lot! We've put together some slideshows at http://s161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/stevenspringfoundation/Summer%20Band%20Program/?action=view&current=48b4965c.pbw and http://s161.photobucket.com/albums/t236/stevenspringfoundation/Summer%20Band%20Program/?action=view&current=a4f1de28.pbw Hope you enjoy them!

In other music education news, we'll be continuing our work with the band program at Frederick A. Douglass High School when classes start again at the end of August. Located in New Orleans's 9th Ward, Douglass has a drop-out rate of 18.9% and has consistently been rated 'Academically Unacceptable' by the Louisiana Department of Education.  In addition to our training sessions with the Douglass band, this year we plan to expand our outreach with our "Deep Roots, High Hopes" program. This afterschool project will bring local professional and amateur musicians in to work with interested Douglass students so that they can personally pass on the unique cultural traditions of New Orleans music.