Music Advocacy Group

You are making a difference in school music

School music is in full swing with Costume Pops, Homecoming, and Pep Band music. Several students are preparing for Winter/Spring competitions and honor festivals. Their dedication to practice is truly helpful in honing social-emotional skills such as resilience, collaboration, and self-esteem. Bravo to the music students and teachers for their incredible teamwork!
Mariachi Education—This first-ever program is a zero-hour class (7:30 AM) on Mondays and Wednesdays. Orcas Island Rotary generously stepped in to fund new mariachi instruments and curriculum to enable the inaugural group of eight students to explore this culturally rich pathway to music education. A HUGE thank you to Orcas Island Rotary!
Instrument Accessibility—Orcas Island School District (OISD) music teachers oversee a collection of musical instruments acquired over the years. A nominal rental fee allows EVERY band and strings student access to an instrument of their choice, without having to purchase or rent one privately. The music teachers help maintain instruments until they are beyond repair. This year, several instruments need replacement. Your support will help ensure student musicians always have a reliable instrument.

Students win honors at 2024 competitions!

Anonymous donor funds marching band needs

Did you know that donations earmarked for specific needs can be gifted to the OISD music program via MAG? Thanks to an anonymous donor, OISD has secured much-needed marching band equipment. The OIHS marching band led a spirited Homecoming parade that culminated at the Village Green with pep songs and a bonfire.

Europe calling: Orcas student musicians on tour

Six OIHS band students performed throughout Europe this summer as part of the Washington Ambassadors of Music program, with help from an anonymous MAG donor. Additionally, strings student Lamai Hons traveled to London as part of the Honors Performance Series. Lamai previously performed at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Kids’ Chorus now at the Funhouse Commons

Kids in grades 1-5 are singing popular and traditional favorites and writing a few songs of their own under the baton of island musician Mary Wachter. This youth program is co-sponsored with Orcas Choral Society and the Funhouse Commons. A chorus for grades 6-12 is planned for January 2025.

Save the date: MAG Benefit Concert March 2

The popular MAG Benefit Concert returned this past spring with an incredible community turnout. Thanks to Orcatrazz, JP and the OK Rhythm Boys, Orcas Choral Society Ensemble, and Orcas Island School District musicians for an event to remember. Mark your calendar for our next school music benefit concert on March 2, 2025!