During spring of 2022 Vernon Middle School music teachers Jennifer Adams and Michelle Waymire submitted a funded Marion School Foundation grant to purchase a new baritone saxophone for the middle school band.
Per the application, “The baritone saxophone is one of the lowest voices in the woodwind section and can greatly impact the sound of the entire band by providing an important bass voice. Our school currently has only one baritone saxophone, which must be shared among all players. The baritone saxophone fills in the sounds of the lower voices of our concert band and is an instrument that clarinet and alto saxophone players often rent from Vernon to fill out our jazz band’s saxophone section and provide a well-balanced jazz band, which is crucial as our jazz band performs at concerts and competitions.”
We are excited to share that the new saxophone has been purchased and is being used by a band student. When a Vernon Middle School student found out that he got to play the new baritone saxophone, he said, “This is an awesome instrument!” He is so thankful to play an instrument that is high-quality. This new saxophone has allowed the middle school band to have more players on baritone saxophone, making progress daily and improving the sound of the band.
The Marion Foundation’s grant program provides teachers an opportunity to receive funding for projects that benefit students in the Marion Independent School District. Grants are made possible because of generous contributions the Foundation receives throughout the year from both businesses and individuals as well as a number of educational funds that are invested with the Foundation for long-term benefit.