Through the Central Carolina Community Foundation, the Hootie and the Blowfish Foundation has provided a three-year, $30,000 grant to the Music Industry Studies (MIS) program’s Hands-On Harmonies project. The project will provide middle school
students in South Carolina opportunities to learn about the business and playing of
commercial and popular music, and about jobs in and adjacent to the music industry.
"The Hands-On Harmonies project, originally proposed by three USC students, will provide an excellent opportunity for the Music Industry program to connect with schools across the Midlands and the state of South Carolina as a whole,” said Jeremy Polley, MIS Director. “By bringing commercial and popular music to area schools, we hope to provide their students with the knowledge that all kinds of music and music creation are valued, and that opportunities to learn about these styles and the music industry as a whole exist right here in our state."
The American Association of Retired People (AARP) - South Carolina is helping fund the School of Music’s Congaree New Horizons Band Program (CNHB) to provide music instruction to both senior citizens and Veterans, regardless of their musical experience. The CNHB program, which includes more than a dozen ensembles and classes, is for individuals 50 and older who want to begin, resume, or continue performing instrumental music with others, for others. The CNHB program includes the Armed Services Veterans Band (ASVB), which was formed in Fall 2023 and provides area veterans and their families –of any age—to come together and perform. All ASVB instruction is provided by veterans; Chief William (B.J.) Brazier conducts the ASVB.
Research shows that active music making—and active listening—are uniquely beneficial to people, and can result in meaningful social, cognitive, and emotional benefits that complement the satisfaction of musical skill development.
— Mandi Schlegel, Assistant Professor of Instrumental Music Education
“Research shows that active music making—and active listening—are uniquely beneficial
to people, and can result in meaningful social, cognitive, and emotional benefits
that complement the satisfaction of musical skill development,” said Assistant Professor
of Instrumental Music Education Dr. Mandi Schlegel, director of the CNHB program and coordinator of civilian concert and jam bands. “The
ASVB is made up entirely of members and instructors who are veterans, active military
personnel, and those who support the military. It’s a win-win and a great way to show
our respect and appreciation for their service.”
Dean of the School of Music Tayloe Harding is thrilled with the partnerships with two community-focused funders. “As the School celebrates its one-hundredth year of music at Carolina, these partnerships show that we are holding up our promise to be one of the best public music schools in the country.”
For more information about supporting the School of Music at USC, or about these programs, contact Audra Vaz, Assistant Dean for Advancement, at 803-777-9732.