Fremd group raises money for Joplin tornado victims
Students from Fremd High School’s Modern Music Masters Honor Society, or “Tri-M,” recently raised $2,200 for the music department at Joplin High School in Missouri.
The high school and town of Joplin were devastated by a F5 tornado on May 22, which resulted in 159 deaths and more than 7,000 destroyed homes. Damage to the Joplin High School Music Department alone was estimated at $3.7 million.
Fremd High School’s Tri-M Sponsor and Band Director Matthew Moore said the group chose to raise funds after he received an email sent to music educators throughout the Midwest.
“The email educated us on the hardships that the families of Joplin High School have endured since last May,” said Moore. “It was an effort to get their music students back on their feet by providing funds for instruments, supplies, and music. I presented the topic to our students, and they were very excited to get started on a fundraiser to assist.”
The Tri-M chapter decided to donate all profits from their annual ArtsFest T-shirt fundraiser, Nov. 15-18. ArtsFest features four days of visual artists and musical ensembles.
Fremd High School’s ArtsFest exposes students and staff to numerous styles of visual and musical art. Due to the financial generosity of the Fremd Music Association and Viking Boosters, the FHS Music Department was able to offer live performances from Chicago’s Fifth House Ensemble, State Street Brass Quintet, Elmhurst College Jazz Band and Late Night Vocal Jazz, and the NIU Steel band.
“ArtsFest is not only a pleasant getaway, but an inspirational experience,” said senior student bass player and Tri-M member Jon Glazer. “The convenience of ArtsFest makes an easy opportunity for nonmusical and musical students to be exposed to something new and exciting.”
Tri-M music students supported ArtsFest by making publicity signs, as well as performing in the school’s hallways during passing periods. Students from the Tri-M chapter presented two student recitals and participated in a “Careers in Music Presentation” during ArtsFest week.
Music students and parents purchased 180 T-shirts, raising $1,100, which was matched by an organization in Missouri to benefit the Joplin High School Music Department.
“Please tell everyone who participated in this fundraiser how much we appreciate it. The choir, band and orchestra will put the money to good use,” said Joplin High School Band Director/Music Chair Rick Castor. “Everyone has been so wonderful to jump in and help us get back on our feet. This sends a great message to everyone about all the good that’s still left in this world. Thanks for all the wonderful things you are doing to keep music in our lives.”