Bravo Waukegan holds 'We Rise Through Music!' event
Submitted by Bravo Waukegan
Bravo Waukegan, a Lake Forest-based nonprofit organization supporting music education in Waukegan public schools (District 60), held its annual fundraiser luncheon recently.
The event, "We Rise Through Music!" showcased the sounds of the Waukegan High School Jazztet, a jazz ensemble made up of sophomores, juniors and seniors led by teacher Mike Kennedy.
The program addressed the funding needs of the music program in Waukegan public schools and underscored the importance of music education in young peoples' lives.
"Learning to play an instrument, even if for only two years, has a measurable impact on cognitive brain function, which improves academics and a person's overall learning experience," Executive Director Karey Walker said.
"Research confirms this, personal observation and common sense underscores the many benefits to learning to play music."
The funds raised will go toward scholarships so that students in need have an instrument, music book and materials required to participate in the school band or orchestra programs; choir risers for the high school choir; the cleaning of more than 1,000 instruments this summer; and the expansion of the mariachi after-school program, to name a few.
During the event a scholarship award was announced in honor of Patricia Sikorovsky, founder of Bravo Waukegan. The scholarships will be awarded to two Waukegan High School music students who exhibit a serious commitment to their music, demonstrate leadership and have an impressive academic record.
The recipients will attend a two-week intensive music camp at Birch Creek Academy and Performance Center in Egg Harbor (Door County), Wisconsin.
Bravo collects used instruments year-round. Drop-offs happen daily at Bravo's Gorton Community Center office, Room 203. Those who donate receive an in-kind donation tax letter. All instruments are cleaned/repaired and inventoried by the Waukegan school district. The public is welcome to contact the Bravo office for more information.
The Gorton Community Center is at 400 E. Illinois, Lake Forest. For information about Bravo Waukegan, visit www.bravowaukegan.org or call (847) 722-5821.
• To submit Your news with one photo, go to dailyherald.com/share. To submit Your news with multiple photos, send it to nbrcalender@dailyherald.com.