From Sunday's Statesman

Students band together
Local youths solicit donations to fund music programs
EUNICE KIM
Statesman Journal
September 9, 2007

Mike Spink was taken aback for a moment as he answered the door of his home on Ptarmigan Street NW in West Salem.
"Oh, my. They're dressed up," he said as he saw Lynn Robinson and KC Urbani wearing green and black marching band uniforms. "How can I help you?"

That was the cue for the two West Salem High School seniors to launch their appeal. The 17-year-olds explained that it was Music Day, and they were seeking donations to support their school's program.

Students from every high school in the Salem-Keizer district hit the pavement Saturday to raise money for their band and music programs. Each school organizes its own Band Day or Music Day, sending students out into their respective areas, knocking on doors.

At South and West high schools, the entire music department participated. At the other four high schools, only the bands were involved.

"It's fun," said Zach Chong, a West Salem High School drum major. "We get to see a lot of people we know. It's nice to see all of the support from the community."

In northeast Salem, McKay High School seniors David Meeker and Kevyn Smoot canvassed the area around Greentree Drive NE. The 17-year-olds, who wore green and blue plaid kilts, got shot down many times but didn't get discouraged. When residents weren't home, they left fliers in the doors that asked for mail-in contributions.

"You know you're making money to have a band program, and the program's fun, so it's worth it," said Smoot, who plays the baritone.

For most, if not all, of the high schools, this effort is the largest fundraiser of the year for the music program. The donations cover everything from transportation costs for marching bands and equipment to uniform replacements.

At McKay, much of the money -- the goal this year was to raise $6,500 -- will be used to hire additional instructors for the marching band.

"Without Band Day, we could not be a competitive marching band program," said Mike Sim, president of McKay Band Boosters.

At West Salem, the donations will be divided among the choir, band and orchestra programs. Last year, the school raised about $20,000.

"It allows the music program to expand from just an ordinary, in-school program to a really excellent program that has a lot of opportunities for musical and emotional growth," said West Salem High band director Ike Nail.

West students not only went door to door but manned the entrances of Roth's and Safeway to solicit donations from customers.

"They're learning the real responsibility of being part of a community," said parent volunteer Cecilia Urbani, who drove students around. "The high school is not just an entity by itself, it's part of the whole community."

Back on Ptarmigan Street NW near West Salem High, Spink gladly gave Robinson and Urbani a donation after they explained Music Day.

"Good luck," Spink said as the two went on their way. "I enjoy listening to you guys every night. I can hear you guys practice."