Kris Allen-Inspired Fundraiser at Hanover Middle School in PA, a Winner for Music Empowers Foundation

HANOVER, Pa., Jan. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Students, parents and faculty gathered last evening at the Hanover Middle School in Hanover, PA, near Harrisburg, to celebrate the joys and benefits of music education and to raise money for the Music Empowers Foundation. Large numbers of students and parents participated in the event and donated funds to support music education for children.

The fundraising event was the brainchild of Mikaela Bell, an early childhood education major at Shippensburg University.  Mikaela was inspired to do the fundraiser by platinum-selling recording artist and 2009 American Idol winner, Kris Allen.  Kris Allen is a strong advocate for kids' music education in schools, and partners with the Music Empowers Foundation to support several organizations including: Little Kids Rock and Berklee College of Music's Berklee City Music Network.

"I think it's ludicrous that schools are eliminating music and arts programs," Ms. Bell said. "My goal tonight is to show students how fortunate we are to have a strong music program in Hanover and there are many schools that have nothing."  During the event, students in grades four through six tested out various instruments, learned new dances and made their own instruments. The students also took part in a poster contest on why music education is important.

The Founder of Music Empowers Foundation, Andy Davis, attended and spoke at last night's event. "It is amazingly inspiring to see people come together like this to support music education for kids," Mr. Davis said.  "Obviously we are extremely grateful for the generosity of the community and want to recognize the example they are setting for communities across the country."  In his comments Mr. Davis went on to say that, "More than 20% of schools in the U.S. have no music or arts programs and that number is likely to increase as education budgets continue to get trimmed."

The Music Empowers Foundation was created in 2010 to provide financial support to nonprofits that offer exciting and innovative music education for children in communities with limited or nonexistent programs.  For more information on Music Empowers, visit www.musicempowersfoundation.org.  Music Empowers also can be followed on Facebook and Twitter @MusicEmpowers.

SOURCE Music Empowers Foundation