Grants in Action | 2023/2024 School Year
Shelvin Burns, a Choir Director at Perrysburg High School, noticed that the acoustics in the high school auditorium needed improvement to better enhance music performances, so he requested a Perrysburg Schools Foundation grant for the purchase of eight acoustic shells. The $21, 060.64 grant has immediately benefitted over 350 students, and will continue to benefit many future PHS band, choir and orchestra students.
“Our students now have the experience of hearing each other better on stage,” explained Mr. Burns. “Teachers can also hear the ensemble better on stage, which in turn will help us with analyzing our ensemble’s sound. The shells mimic the performing venues at large group contests more closely, which will benefit our students’ efforts to rehearse. Our audiences can also now enjoy a warmer, more blended sound from our ensembles.”
The acoustical shells will benefit band, choir and orchestra rehearsals and performances. The shells are also portable, so they may be used in classrooms and other schools in the district.
In a separate grant application, Mr. Burns also requested $1,600 for improved recording devices for use by band, choir, orchestra and theatre—a benefit to over 600 students.
“The goal is to provide a better quality of video and audio recordings of not only performances, but classroom activities as well,” explained Mr. Burns. “While our camera for live-streaming concerts does a fine job, this upgrade has enhanced our ability to listen, analyze and give feedback/critiques of our own performances. We as a performing arts department value group and class reflection, and having a higher quality of sound and video helps our students improve on their reflective skills.”
The Perrysburg Schools Arts Council is charged with suggesting areas of funding from the Perrysburg Schools Foundation and its Campaign for the Arts that supports the visual and performing arts through student discovery, student experience, program growth and program sustainability.
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